Sky Sports host uses Arne Engels to launch Celtic enquiry as Ref Watch panel split over two flashpoints.

The £11m Parkhead record signing was the subject of a Var check.

Celtic player Arne Engels was at the centre of a controversy over potential red cards as two major members of Ref Watch pardoned him minutes after reprimanding Moises Caicedo – but Dermot Gallagher insisted both were yellow cards.

The £11 million Parkhead record signing was subject to a VAR review for a challenge on Joe Newell, but the referee’s original decision to award a yellow card stood after Clydesdale House looked into it. And Dermot Gallagher agreed with the decision when it came to the Celtic player, noting on Sky Sports Ref Watch: “Yellow card.” He’s reckless, and he doesn’t need to take that challenge, but I don’t think he clamps down on him. He comes in late. I believe yellow cards are appropriate; I agree with the referee.”
Fellow experts Sue Smith and Stephen Warnock agreed, although broadcaster Rob Wootoon questioned how it varied from the Caicedo call against Tottenham. Gallagher remained strong in his conviction that Caicedo was correct to remain on the pitch, saying: “I think it’s a yellow card, but I understand why Jamie Carragher feels it’s a red. I believe he drops down, places his foot in the earth, and does not pass through it, which is what saves him. If he catches him halfway up the shin, he’ll receive a red card. What everyone is looking for right now is intensity. Has he gotten it, gained momentum, and gone through it? His boot, not his shin, touches the ground on the pitch.. That’s what saves him.”
Smith commented on the Caicedo incident, saying, “I’m shocked there wasn’t a red card. I think he went with a lot of intensity. It appeared fairly aggressive, and he hits high before scraping down. I expected them to analyse it and then dismiss him.” Warnock concurred, saying, “I was as astonished as you were. I get what you’re saying about the passion and the approach he’s taken.”

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