Keith Hackett: Bryan Mbeumo on PGMOL 'radar' as Man United controversy analysed
Below is a summary of the full article. Click here for the full version or go back to LFC Live.net.
Credit: Imago / Sky Sports Main Event
Harri Burton
Mon 25 August 2025 16:43, UK
Bryan Mbeumo is likely to be a player to watch for the PGMOL’s referees after the Man United star was caught in another incident against Fulham, according to Keith Hackett.
The former PGMOL chief and ex-FIFA official exclusively told Football Insider that the new United signing has attracted attention from officials after two separate collisions with opposition players.
Mbeumo was lucky not to be cautioned against Arsenal, making contact with Martin Zubimendi during the opening minute at Old Trafford, and the winger was involved yet again against the Cottagers.
In the seventh minute at Craven Cottage on Sunday, 24 August, Fulham centre-back Calvin Bassey was left writhing in pain on the floor, having been caught in the eye by a flailing arm.
This article contains exclusive comments from ex-PGMOL chief, FIFA official and former professional referee Keith Hackett.
While the incident was completely accidental, the former Brentford man clearly likes to use his hands and arms to fend the opposition off, as do many attackers in the Premier League.
MORE FOOTBALL INSIDER STORIES
However, following up on his blatant hit-out against the Gunners, Mbeumo is making a reputation for himself, one which might see him become a more well-known name amongst the referees.
Chris Kavanagh also had a close eye on Bassey throughout the game, having punished the defender for dragging Mason Mount down in the penalty area, but also ignoring the ongoing drama in the box.
Calvin Bassey was heavily involved during the draw between Fulham and Man United.
(Credit: Imago)
Although Hackett did not expect any action to be taken against the winger, he did raise concerns over his actions while in possession of the ball, with back-to-back incidents now being spoken about.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the former referee said: “The PGMOL have hired a fair number of analysts, and this is the type of incident that they should be looking at, with the potential for offering referees advice on what to look out for.
“Teams plan corner kicks, free-kicks, and set-pieces, all of that, and it’s no different for refereeing.
(Credit Imago)
“If I’m running across, before he’s even done something at the start of the game, I’d just tell him to take care with his arm or elbow.
Football is a contact sport, so accidents will happen.