Referee Simon Hooper did not have the best outing in the Manchester City-Tottenham game. His decision to stop the game for a foul cost Pep Guardiola’s men dearly. As a result, fans have lashed out at the referee who already had faced a lot of criticism for his officiating in the Liverpool-Tottenham game. Now, the soccer experts at BBC have lambasted Hooper for his shocking decision.

The incident happened in the 95th minute as Erling Haaland was fouled by Emerson Royal. Still, the Norwegian managed to find Grealish with the pass. Grealish looked set to score but Hooper ultimately blew the whistle for the earlier foul. Looks like a decision he must be regretting.

Soccer experts lash out at Simon Hooper

Soccer analysts Leon Osman and Jermaine Jenas, on the MOTD program, showed no sympathy for Hooper. Jenas said, “It is clearly a mistake but it is a monster of a mistake.” Leon Osman sided with Jenas and also added that with the technology in use currently, Hooper will not be able to get away from this episode.

Jenas also discussed a viewpoint that has left many fans scratching their heads. He said, ” I think if he blows a whistle straight away you kind of go all right that’s you know it’s he’s made a mistake but the fact he went no I’ll allow it to continue and then blew the whistle I’m not sure what’s going through his head.” It seems this delay is what outraged the Manchester City team.

Yet, the experts also appreciated how Hooper allowed the game to flow freely. But it seems the mistake will overshadow his good moments. In fact, his decision annoyed Erling Haaland who even took to social media to comment on the issue.

Read More: 5 Times Simon Hooper Angered Premier League Fans With Controversial Decisions

Haaland expresses his frustration via social media

The 23-year-old striker was shown a yellow card for showing dissent at Simon Hooper’s onfield decision. He also quoted a tweet from X and expressed his disappointment at the pivotal decision.

It remains to be seen if the Football Association takes note of the matter. Usually, players and managers are penalized for criticizing referees. Also, Simon Hooper has been appointed in charge of the Liverpool Sheffield match. Considering his involvement in the much-talked-about Spurs-Liverpool game, it will make for interesting viewing.

What are your thoughts on Simon Hooper’s controversial call? Let us know in the comments below.

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