'No excuse' - Ex-FIFA ref slams Chris Kavanagh for unseen Bruno Fernandes moment
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(Credit: Imago)
Edward Bazeley
Sun 24 August 2025 18:51, UK
Chris Kavanagh should have avoided making physical contact with Bruno Fernandes after awarding Manchester United a penalty against Fulham.
The referee bumped into the Portugal star as he was preparing to take the spot-kick against the West Londoners, which he blazed over the crossbar.
Fernandes’ miss from 12 yards proved costly for Man United, who played out a 1-1 draw with Marco Silva’s side on Sunday, 24 August.
The Red Devils are yet to win in the Premier League this season, having been beaten by Arsenal at Old Trafford on Sunday, 17 August in their opening fixture.
Fernandes missed a penalty against Fulham (Credit: Imago)
This article contains exclusive comments from ex-PGMOL chief, FIFA official, and former professional referee Keith Hackett.
As Man United drew 1-1 with Fulham at Craven Cottage, the Red Devils were handed a penalty in the 36th minute after a VAR review.
Fulham defender Calvin Bassey was adjudged to have grappled Mason Mount to the ground, prompting Kavanagh to point to the spot.
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However, the main talking point swiftly changed as Kavanagh made physical contact with Man United ace Fernandes.
Co-Commentating on the game live on Sky Sports Main event, Gary Neville said that the referee was to blame for the midfielder missing his penalty.
Pundits Ashley Young and Louis Saha agreed with Neville in their halftime analysis.
Kavanagh bumped into Fernandes (Credit Imago)
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, Hackett said: “There was absolutely no reason for Kavanagh to make physical contact with Fernandes at the penalty kick.
“It is frankly poor procedure on his part.
“He should ensure that the ball is placed correctly on the penalty mark, that the goalkeeper is positioned correctly on the goal line and that attackers and defenders are positioned outside the penalty area.
“He then takes up his position and signals for the kick to be taken.