Keith Hackett has stated that Bournemouth midfielder Tyler Adams should have been booked by referee Michael Oliver during his team’s loss to Brighton.
The former PGMOL chief and ex-FIFA official told Football Insider exclusively that while Adams’ challenge on Tariq Lamptey didn’t warrant VAR intervention for a red card, it was still a foul deserving of a yellow card.
Adams, who has struggled with injuries since his move from Leeds to Bournemouth, has had more involvement in Andoni Iraola’s squad this season. However, against Brighton, he found himself in the spotlight for a particular challenge during the match.
Tyler Adams avoids punishment after foul on Tariq Lamptey
Bournemouth had taken the lead with a Joao Pedro penalty, awarded after goalkeeper Kepa fouled the Brighton striker. Around ten minutes later, Adams was penalized for a tackle on Brighton full-back Lamptey.
Adams, chasing a loose ball, missed it and instead caught Lamptey on the front of the ankle with his boot. Referee Oliver chose not to issue a card to Adams, and VAR did not intervene for a possible red card review. Instead, Adams was booked a few minutes later for dissent.
Tyler Adams’ 2024/25 season stats (according to Transfermarkt):
Appearances: 19
Goals: 0
Assists: 3
Yellow Cards: 5
Red Cards: 0
Hackett now suggests that although VAR was correct not to get involved, Oliver should have still taken action.
Keith Hackett comments on the Bournemouth vs Brighton controversy
Speaking to Football Insider about whether Adams was fortunate to avoid a card for the foul, Hackett said:
“The challenge was reckless, and Michael Oliver should have issued a yellow card. Under VAR guidelines, Stockley Park can only intervene for red card offenses related to fouls. This particular challenge doesn’t meet the criteria for serious foul play, as it lacked malice or brutality. A yellow card was the appropriate decision.”
Justin Kluivert equalized for Bournemouth shortly after the hour mark, assisted by Milos Kerkez. However, Brighton secured a 2-1 win when Danny Welbeck scored with 15 minutes remaining.
The result strengthens Brighton’s push for a European spot while hindering Bournemouth’s own aspirations for continental qualification.
Exclusive: Michael Oliver gets Adams on Lamptey wrong in Brighton v Bournemouth
