Chelsea midfielder Cole Palmer has become embroiled in a scandal after receiving a red card in the match against Tottenham Hotspur. Former head of refereeing in England, Keith Hackett, insists that the standard one-match suspension isn’t sufficient for the player’s actions.
On October 24, Chelsea suffered a 2-0 defeat at Stamford Bridge, with Palmer receiving two yellow cards and leaving the pitch prematurely.
Under current rules, the Englishman is set to miss only the League Cup clash against Liverpool but is available to face Manchester United in the Premier League on October 31.
However, Hackett believes such a punishment is too lenient.
“One match isn’t enough”
The former FIFA referee argues that Palmer committed two offences, each of which could warrant a straight red card.
This includes incidents involving Mateusz Fernandez and Conor Gallagher.
Hackett expressed:
I believe that the one-match suspension outlined by FA regulations is insufficient. Essentially, it gives him a week off.
He’s probably grateful for the break, understanding that with his talent and skill, he’ll return to the starting lineup regardless.
According to the expert, the FA should take a firmer stand on player conduct.
Hackett added:
If I were in the FA's position, I’d call this player in alongside his manager and make it clear that such behaviour is unacceptable.
If he wishes to play for the England national team—and he should aim to do so—he needs to comport himself like a professional footballer.
Palmer’s disciplinary issues mount
Hackett pointed out that the incident against Tottenham wasn’t an isolated case.
A week prior, Palmer avoided punishment for a late tackle against Jarrad Branthwaite in the match against Everton, with some Everton fans believing he should have been sent off then, too.
Now, the number of warnings for one of Chelsea’s key players continues to grow.
This situation presents an additional challenge for Xabi Alonso, who is already grappling with discipline among his squad.
Though Palmer remains a pivotal figure for the London club, his emotional responses on the pitch are increasingly raising eyebrows.
As it stands, Hackett's call for stricter punishment is merely a suggestion, with no official decision regarding an additional ban for Palmer currently in place.
