Keith Hackett lauds Steven McLean's 'outstanding' decision over Dundee vs Celtic controversy

Below is a summary of the full article. Click here for the full version from Football Insider or go back to LFC Live.

Credit: Imago Mon 6 April 2026 15:00, UK Dundee had no leg to stand on when crying out for a back-pass during their 2-1 defeat to Celtic at Dens Park.That is according to former PGMOL chief and ex-FIFA referee, Keith Hackett, who exclusively told Football Insider that Steven McLean should be commended for his decision on Sunday, 5 April.In the 50th minute, with Martin O’Neill’s side one goal ahead, Liam Scales was pressured by two forwards, being forced to turn back and pass the ball back to goalkeeper Viljami Sinisalo, who picked the ball up.The entire stadium was absolutely certain that the referee should have awarded an indirect free-kick, which could have been a turning point in Celtic’s win over Dundee, but Hackett believes the right decision was reached.Credit: Sky Sports ScotlandSteven McLean spot-on over Dundee vs Celtic controversyIt was a highly contentious incident at the time, but with replays showing the pass coming off the bottom of Simon Murray’s foot, the “outstanding” decision has been explained.Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the former referee said: “It’s hit the attacking player, hasn’t it? At first, I was looking at whether the ball had come off the body.

MORE FOOTBALL INSIDER STORIES “It’s only a back-pass if it’s off the boot. On this occasion, it’s come off the opponent, and as a result, it negates the decision.

That’s why the referee hasn’t given it. DundeeStatsCeltic42%Possession58%8Shots173Shots on target81Big chances40Big chances missed27Fouls committed13“To be honest, that’s an outstanding decision from the match official.