Former Newcastle captain Alan Shearer has launched a scathing critique of the referee’s decision that granted Paris St-Germain a late penalty, describing it as “disgusting” and “s***.”
Shearer, the Magpies’ all-time leading goal scorer, expressed his frustration on social media after the referee belatedly awarded a penalty in stoppage time, ultimately leading to a 1-1 draw against the hometown club.
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The controversy arose when Polish referee Szymon Marciniak reviewed a non-penalty decision regarding a cross that struck Tino Livramento’s ribs and then the underside of his arm.
Kylian Mbappe converted the penalty in the eighth minute of stoppage time, securing a draw after facing staunch resistance from Newcastle’s goalkeeper Nick Pope, and defenders.
Shearer, unimpressed by the decision, voiced his discontent on social media, emphasizing the exceptional performance of every Newcastle player and condemning the impact of the controversial call.
Former teammate Shay Given echoed Shearer’s sentiments, recalling past instances of contentious handball decisions in Paris.
In addition to Shearer and Given, former Newcastle and England striker Michael Owen criticized the penalty decision and raised concerns about the inconsistent interpretation of the handball rule.
TNT Sports pundit Ally McCoist labeled the referee’s decision a “disgrace,” emphasizing the controversial nature of penalizing actions involving Livramento’s chest and elbow.
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Colleague Jermaine Jenas, a former St James’ Park player, echoed the sentiment, expressing shock at the decision and questioning the logic behind penalizing natural arm positions.
The fallout from this contentious decision is likely to linger, overshadowing an otherwise commendable away performance by Newcastle.
