Arsenal: Ex-Premier League referee says Jurrien Timber 'should have been red carded' in Sunderland draw | OneFootball

The Arsenal avoided punishment for his tackle during the game

Timber was involved in another flashpoint during the opening 45 minutes as he caught Sunderland midfielder Enzo Le Fee late upon protecting the ball.

The incident went unnoticed by referee Craig Pawson and VAR as the Gunners’ defender avoided any punishment.

However, Hackett believes Timber should have been sent off, telling Football Insider: “We have a loose interpretation of the laws of the game, and a failure to recognise that these challenges, which have a semi-stamping approach with a landing area on the boot or lower leg, get away with it.

“The player has completely overstepped the ball and into the player. That’s an offence that merits a sanction, but it’s not forthcoming.

“Players are very good at hiding challenges, and because there is a loose approach from the PGMOL, we are seeing more of them.

“For me, that challenge has endangered the safety of an opponent. I’m quite clear that these challenges need to be outlawed. There needs to be a firmer approach by the PGMOL.

“Referees should be all about the safety of the players. But these challenges are growing. He should have been red-carded.”

Red card verdict: Jurrien Timber

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Meanwhile, fellow former Premier League referee Dermot Gallagher has delivered his verdict on the incident involving Daniel Ballard and Mikel Merino.

Ballard, who came back to haunt his former club with a goal and an assist, appeared to catch Merino with his elbow and infruiate Mikel Arteta in the process.

Though, VAR checked and cleared the challenge and Gallagher agreed with the outcome of no red card.

Speaking on Sky Sports Ref Watch, he said: "VAR looked at it. I don't think it's a foul. His used his arms for leverage. If anything, Merino comes into him. There's a clash but there's clashes all the time in football. It's strong defending."