Roy Keane doubled down on his assertion that Liverpool defender Andy Robertson is a “big baby” following an incident with the assistant referee in the incident-packed draw with Arsenal on Sunday.
Robertson claimed that he had been elbowed in the throat by Constantine Hatzidakis at half-time. The incident happened after Robertson approached Hatzidakis at half-time to complain about decisions that had been made in the first half.
Hatzidakis was walking away from the left-back towards referee Paul Tierney in the centre circle and was caught on camera catching Robertson on the chin with his arm. Robertson was then seen remonstrating, with Liverpool skipper Jordan Henderson telling Tierney about what happened.
Keane had zero sympathy for Robertson. Asked on Sky Sports at half-time if he had ever seen anything like it, he replied: “No, not really. But Robertson, do you know what, does he grab the linesman first? I'm not sure, but he's complaining. He should be more worried about his defending.
"Do you know what it is, that Robertson? I've watched him a number of times. He's a big baby. That's what he is. Just get on with the game and concentrate on your defending. He does grab the linesman first."
Keane did not change his view over time, with the former Manchester United midfielder repeating the insult after the final whistle.
“I think he’s going to be in a bit of trouble for that,” said Gary Neville. “It’s not as bad as it looks,” added Micah Richards.
HAVE YOUR SAY! What is your opinion of the Andy Robertson incident? Comment below.
Neville then added: “The linesman is going to get in trouble because he’s a linesman and done that but the reality of it is that if he just misses a weekend and carries on, I think we’d all forgive him. I don’t think it’s that bad.”
Keane then said: “What’s he gone over to him for? And what’s he complaining for? I said at half-time, Robertson, what a baby. What a big baby. Just get on with the game. Baby.” The studio then burst into laughter at the Irishman’s frank opinion.
His opinion has been backed up by another former United player, with Paul Parker tweeting: “Respect the officials by not touching them. Plus don’t be a baby if he makes contact with you to protect himself.”
The PGMOL have since confirmed that they are investigating the incident between Robertson and Hatzidakis, following the 2-2 draw at Anfield.
