News
Assistant Referee Constantine Hatzidakis ‘Punished Enough’ For Andy Robertson Incident
The assistant referee involved in an incident with Liverpool’s Andy Robertson has been punished “enough”, says the head of a referees’ charity.
Constantine Hatzidakis has been stood down while an investigation into the incident on Sunday, in which he seemed to elbow Robertson, is completed.
Former Premier League referee Keith Hackett said Hatzidakis’ career “could be in jeopardy” if found guilty.
“It has been blown a little bit out of proportion,” said Martin Cassidy.
Cassidy, the chief executive officer of Ref Support UK, told BBC Sport: “We should never advocate violence or match officials hitting anyone but it genuinely looks like Andy Robertson grabs him and Con pushes him to get off.
“They haven’t suspended Andy Robertson. It is a little bit of an overreaction.”
Hatzidakis made contact with Robertson’s chin after the Scotland international approached him at the end of the first half in Sunday’s 2-2 Premier League draw with Arsenal.
Former Blackburn striker Chris Sutton said the assistant referee “has to be banned”.
“There is a line,” he told 5 Live’s Monday Night Club programme. “The assistant crossed it in that moment and will probably serve a suspension.”
The Robertson incident follows the eight-game ban given to Fulham striker Alexsandar Mitrovic, who pushed a referee during a match against Manchester United.
New York Times football writer Rory Smith said the suggestion Hatzidakis should lose his job is “excessive”.
“If his career is over that has a different meaning to someone who does not earn what Mitrovic earns,” Smith said.
Cassidy added: “Eric Cantona jumped into the crowd and kicked somebody and still came back and scored in an FA Cup final.
“Why should we treat match officials any different? Yes, we are the guardians of standards and they look on us more strictly but that isn’t a free for all.
“No, his career is not over. He will learn from it.
“What has happened to Con already, the fact he looks like he has been proven guilty and taken off games, I think that is enough.”
‘Bring in an exclusion zone’
As well as calling for tougher rules allowing only captains can speak to officials, Cassidy said football needs to introduce an “exclusion zone” around referees which would stop players getting too close.
“All of these situations are happening when a player makes contact with a referee,” he said.
“It has been going on for years.
“Let’s create a safe area where everyone agrees you don’t go within a metre or two metres.
“Let’s create an exclusion zone where if you go that close to a match official you get a card no matter what. That might make the game a bit less aggressive and more productive.”
East Ham, East London — 8 August 2026: The vibrant Igbo community in the UK came together for an unforgettable evening of entertainment, culture and social connection at Igbotic Game Night, one of the biggest social gatherings celebrating the Igbo community in the United Kingdom.
Among the night’s standout moments was an electrifying performance by Afrobeats artist Obeena, who took the stage and immediately captured the attention of the crowd.
Obeena delivered performances of two of his hit songs, “Wara Wara” and “Banging,” bringing his energetic sound and distinctive stage presence to the event. From the opening moments of his set, fans responded with excitement, singing along, dancing and enthusiastically supporting the artist.
His performance of “Wara Wara” created an instant connection with the audience, while “Banging” took the energy to another level. Obeena’s ability to engage the crowd transformed his set into one of the most memorable entertainment moments of the evening.
Held in East Ham, East London, on 8 August 2026, Igbotic Game Night provided a unique platform for members of the Igbo community to celebrate their heritage while enjoying music, games and social interaction. Events such as this continue to play an important role in bringing together Nigerians and the wider African diaspora in the UK.
For Obeena, the performance was another opportunity to showcase his growing artistry and connect directly with fans. His energetic delivery, stage confidence and ability to command the audience demonstrated why his live performances continue to attract attention.
By the end of his set, Obeena had left the crowd amazed and added another memorable chapter to his journey as an Afrobeats artist. His appearance at Igbotic Game Night was not simply a performance—it was a celebration of Nigerian music, culture and community.
With performances like this, Obeena continues to demonstrate his ambition to take his sound beyond the studio and onto major stages, connecting with audiences through music, energy and an unmistakable African identity.
Igbotic Game Night brought the Igbo community together. Obeena gave them a performance to remember.
Audio
KenryWhite Releases “Kilometers” & “The King” A Powerful Double Release Celebrating Faith, Purpose, and the Journey to Greatness
Nigerian Afrofusion artist KenryWhite unveils his compelling two-track release, “Kilometers & The King,” a project that explores the realities of life’s journey while affirming identity, faith, and purpose.
Leading the release is “Kilometers,” an uplifting anthem that reflects on the distance between dreams and fulfillment. Through heartfelt lyrics, captivating melodies, and vibrant Afrobeats production, KenryWhite encourages listeners to embrace the process, remain resilient, and keep moving forward despite life’s challenges.
Complementing the project is “The King,” featuring Wonder J. The record is a bold declaration of confidence, royalty, and divine purpose, blending infectious Afrobeats rhythms with inspiring lyricism. Together, the duo delivers a record that celebrates self-belief, leadership, and the mindset required to overcome every obstacle.
With rich storytelling, memorable melodies, and contemporary African sounds, “Kilometers & The King” showcases KenryWhite’s artistic growth while delivering music that inspires, motivates, and connects with audiences across the globe.
Now available on all major streaming platforms, “Kilometers & The King” invites listeners to embrace the journey, recognize their worth, and walk confidently into their purpose.
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