Roy Keane makes bizarre Andy Robertson claim after Liverpool defender struck by ref's elbow

Jacque Talbot

• 9 Apr 2023 19:49 BST
• 3 min read

Despite being elbowed in the face by a linesman during Liverpool's match against Arsenal on Sunday, left-back Andrew Robertson has been labelled a "big baby" by former Manchester United star Roy Keane.

During Liverpool’s, 2-2 draw with Arsenal, the defender appeared to be hit in the face by the official.

Robertson confronted the official at halftime after being struck in the mouth while protesting. The match was already tense, with both teams vying for a win. While Liverpool eventually rallied back in the second-half, even despite a missed penalty from Mohamed Salah.

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But, quite bizarrely, former Manchester United captain Keane criticised Robertson's behaviour and suggested that he focus on his defending instead. Keane stated on Sky Sports during the post-match analysis: "I've watched him a number of times, he is a big baby. That's what that guy is. Just concentrate on the game and get on with your defending. He does grab the linesman first."

Gary Neville was asked if he had ever witnessed an incident like this before as a player or pundit, to which he responded negatively before adding, "I think the linesman will be in a lot of trouble when this game ends."

Robertson 'outraged'

Journalist Geoff Shreeves, who was present pitch-side as the Arsenal and Liverpool players left the field, later reported that Andy Robertson and Jordan Henderson continued to voice their concerns about Hatzidakis' actions in the tunnel at halftime.

Robertson was said to be shocked and outraged, claiming that the linesman had elbowed him in the throat. Henderson led the complaints to referee Paul Tierney before they were separated.

It remains to be seen if the Football Association will investigate the incident and whether Robertson or Hatzidakis will face any disciplinary action as a result.