‘No way’ – Ex-PGMOL boss baffled by Adam Wharton controversy in Everton vs Crystal Palace

Michael Salisbury Criticized for Booking Adam Wharton in Crystal Palace’s Defeat to Everton

Referee Michael Salisbury has come under fire for his decision to book Adam Wharton during Crystal Palace’s surprising loss to Everton at the Hill Dickinson Stadium.

Former PGMOL head and ex-FIFA referee Keith Hackett told Football Insider that the 21-year-old midfielder should never have received his first yellow card of the season during the match on Sunday, 5 October.

Wharton’s omission from the latest England squad by Thomas Tuchel has raised eyebrows, especially after the young talent delivered a commanding performance in midfield, despite the defeat to David Moyes’ side.

Crystal Palace took the lead through Daniel Muñoz, but late goals from Iliman Ndiaye and Jack Grealish ended the Eagles’ impressive 19-game unbeaten streak in dramatic fashion.

Controversial Wharton Booking Sparks Backlash

Wharton was cautioned in the 82nd minute following a challenge on Idrissa Gueye, where he cleanly won the ball but left Gueye on the ground after the collision. The decision left Wharton visibly frustrated, and replays later confirmed the tackle was well-timed and fair.

Hackett was left baffled by Salisbury’s judgment. While Wharton committed four fouls during the game, fans and analysts alike argued that this particular challenge didn’t even warrant a free-kick, let alone a booking.

Hackett: Referee’s Decision Did Not Serve the Game

Speaking to Football Insider, Hackett said:
“Football is a contact sport. That tackle wasn’t reckless — at most, it could be considered careless, which would only justify a free-kick, not a yellow card.”

He added: “There’s no evidence of recklessness. You could even see Gueye’s reaction to the card — he smiled, as if to say he didn’t agree with it either.”

Hackett criticized Salisbury for reaching for the card too quickly:
“Referees need to manage these situations better. If it’s borderline, stop the play, speak to the player, and encourage more caution — don’t immediately go for the booking. That doesn’t help the standard of officiating.”