Keith Hackett and Dermot Gallagher agree on controversial Blackburn Rovers vs Leeds United call

Keith Hackett and Dermot Gallagher feel Blackburn Rovers star Tyrhys Dolan was fortunate not to be sent off in their win over Leeds United.

Dolan was cautioned for a foul on Whites full-back Junior Firpo just after the hour mark in Saturday's clash at Ewood Park. Firpo was caught on his left shin but managed to continue after receiving treatment.

Hackett, a former FIFA referee and PGMOL chief, says referee Lewis Smith should have brandished a red card to Dolan following the forward's strong challenge on Firpo. "That’s red. It’s serious foul play," Hackett told MOT Leeds News. “He’s gone in with his left leg, it’s high. It’s right in front of the referee.

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“He’s launched himself, foot off the ground, caught his opponent high on the left. I’m amazed the referee has not issued a red card.”

United boss Daniel Farke voiced his unhappiness over Smith's decision in his post-match news conference after seeing them fall to a third defeat of the season. He exchanged words with Smith at full time and was left unimpressed with the official for sending off Dolan or clamping down on Rovers 'time-wasting' antics.

Speaking on Sky Sports’ Ref Watch on today, ex-Premier League whistler Gallagher agreed with Hackett's assessment that Dolan ought to have been given his marching orders. “If he had been, I don’t think he could complain too much," said Gallagher. "I wonder if the referee thinks that he hasn’t gone in like that. Could easily be a red card. And if he had got a red card, couldn’t complain too much.”