Former referees’ chief predicts Newcastle and Tottenham will face punishments after Carabao Cup clash
Newcastle United and Tottenham Hotspur could face disciplinary action following an on-field clash between their players during the Carabao Cup.
Former referees’ chief Keith Hackett has said he expects both clubs to be sanctioned after tempers flared in the match, sparked by a strong challenge from Joelinton on Mohammed Kudus. The Newcastle midfielder caught the Ghanaian high on the body with a scissor tackle — an offence Hackett believes warranted a red card.
Kudus reacted angrily, earning a booking himself, before players from both sides became involved in a heated confrontation that referee Chris Kavanagh eventually managed to defuse.
Prior to the brawl, Richarlison, Joao Palhinha, Malick Thiaw, and Fabian Schär had all been cautioned for separate incidents, and the game appeared to be under control until the flare-up occurred.
Hackett told Football Insider that he expects the Football Association to charge both clubs for failing to control their players, reminding that the authorities had earlier emphasized captains being the only players allowed to approach referees — a standard not upheld in this case.
He also referenced Arsenal’s recent FA charge for a similar offence in January 2025, when several players surrounded referee Michael Oliver after a red card decision against Wolves.
It may still take some time, however, before Newcastle and Tottenham are officially informed of any disciplinary measures.
