'Excessive force' - Ex-FIFA ref makes Conor Bradley claim following Burnley vs Liverpool
Below is a summary of the full article. Click here for the full version or go back to LFC Live.net.
(Credit: Sky Sports Main Event/Imago)
Jack Heath
Sun 14 September 2025 17:15, UK
Conor Bradley received a dubious yellow card for a rash tackle on Jaidon Anthony in Liverpool’s 1-0 victory over Burnley.
Former PGMOL chief and ex-FIFA official Keith Hackett exclusively told Football Insider his take on a late tackle by the Northern Irishman in the Reds’ tight 1-0 win over the Clarets.
Prior to the match, Newcastle United fans were thrilled that Alexander Isak was left out of the Liverpool squad after making his move on transfer deadline day.
Credit: Manh Tung – Breaking Media
Arne Slot revealed Isak could feature for Liverpool against Atletico Madrid as he continues to build up his match fitness after no pre-season minutes.
Gut-wrenchingly, Burnley’s Lesley Ugochukwu received a red card against Liverpool for a second bookable offence which was the downfall of the Clarets superb dogged performance.
In the 75th minute, the Northern Ireland international picked up his first booking after coming on for Alexis Mac Allister at half-time.
View this post on Instagram
View Instagram Post
MORE FOOTBALL INSIDER STORIES
The right-back lunged in on Burnley winger Anthony, connecting with his right foot and fouling the 25-year-old in the process.
Scott Parker and his players were incensed with Michael Oliver’s decision to only brandish a yellow card instead of a red one given the aggressive nature of the challenge.
The number 12 swerved a potential suspension due to his tackle not meeting the threshold that would lead to a straight red card with VAR not intervening to overturn the decision.
Credit: Imago
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider former referee Hackett said: “I support the yellow card for a reckless challenge by Conor Bradley.
“It did not fulfil the requirement for a red card of ‘Serious Foul Play’ because the challenge did not meet the excessive force criteria.”