Ex-PGMOL boss: Simon Adingra escaped red card after Sunderland star's 'act of violence'
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Harri Burton
Mon 25 August 2025 12:25, UK
Sunderland star Simon Adingra was fortunate to still be on the pitch after lashing out at Burnley’s Hannibal Mejbri, according to Keith Hackett.
The former PGMOL chief and ex-FIFA official exclusively told Football Insider that when a player makes contact with the face, there is always a chance for them to be shown a straight red card.
During a frustrating 2-0 defeat for the Black Cats on Saturday, 23 August, the 23-year-old winger clearly struck out at Mejbri as the Burnley player attempted to take a throw-in, sending Turf Moor berserk.
Referee Michael Salisbury issued a yellow card in the 19th minute, and while Hackett admitted that there was nothing wrong with this course of action, it could have been much worse for the former Brighton man.
This article contains exclusive comments from ex-PGMOL chief, FIFA official and former professional referee Keith Hackett.
Frustrations were clearly high for Regis Le Bris’ side, though Sunderland were given relief as Lyle Foster’s goal was controversially ruled out for a foul on Jenson Seelt.
However, the Black Cats could do nothing as Josh Cullen opened the scoring just after half-time, curling an effort beautifully past Robin Roefs before Jaidon Anthony added a late goal to seal the win.
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Matters could have been far worse for the visitors had Adingra been sent off after just 19 minutes, but Salisbury has now been commended for his handling of the situation, not letting emotions get out of hand.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider about the incident, the former referee said: “When a player puts his hands in the face of an opponent, he puts himself at risk of a red card being applied.
“What has saved him here is that the referee has judged that what he’s seen is not an act of violence.
There’s a degree of pushing the player away, and there isn’t a speed or intensity within the offence.
Hannibal Mejbri was caught in the face.
(Credit Imago)
“In fairness, the referee has probably judged the incident correctly. Adingra needs some operational advice, though, because when a player places his hands around an opponent’s face, he’s at risk of a red card being issued.
“So, he’s escaped here, but I think the referee has handled the incident well.”
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