Former Premier League referee Dermot Gallagher has delivered a damning verdict on Cristian Romero's controversial escape from a red card during Tottenham Hotspur's goalless draw with Brentford.
Gallagher's Clear Red Card Verdict
The pivotal moment occurred on Thursday evening at the Gtech Community Stadium, where Spurs defender Cristian Romero fouled Brentford forward Igor Thiago while appearing to be the last man. Referee Andrew Madley allowed play to continue, leaving Romero on the pitch to complete the match.
Analysing the incident on Sky Sports' Ref Watch, Gallagher was unequivocal. "He challenges for the ball, he doesn't get the ball, he gets Thiago, there's no doubt about that," stated the ex-official. "Is Thiago in possession? Most certainly. He'll skip by and he's away on goal. For me, foul, red card, easy decision."
Penalty Appeal Also Dismissed
The match, a tight affair where Brentford edged possession and shots on target, featured another contentious decision. Tottenham appealed for a penalty when young midfielder Archie Gray went down under challenges from Kevin Schade and Nathan Collins.
Replays showed minimal contact, and Gallagher agreed with the on-field decision. "I do not think it is a foul because Schade bumps into him," he explained. "There is a little bit of a nudge, but if you watch Gray, he actually throws himself forward and uses Collins's calf to go over – I thought no foul."
Consequences for Tottenham's Season
The stalemate leaves Tottenham in 12th place in the Premier League table after 19 games, now a daunting seven points adrift of the top four. Romero's reprieve was particularly notable as he had only recently returned from a suspension following a red card against Liverpool before Christmas.
For Brentford, managed by Thomas Frank, it was another missed opportunity after a previous win against Crystal Palace. The team now faces a demanding schedule, hosting Sunderland before trips to Bournemouth and an FA Cup third-round clash with Aston Villa. A Champions League fixture against Dortmund also looms later in the month.
The fresh analysis from Gallagher underscores the fine margins and controversial decisions that continue to shape the Premier League narrative, with Tottenham's luck in West London a major talking point.
