Overview
- The Arsenal forward pushed referee Sam Barrott in the 94th minute on Saturday during a 2-1 defeat at St Mary’s and received a yellow card on the field.
- The Athletic and multiple outlets report the FA is not expected to take further action because the incident was already sanctioned by the match official.
- Former referees Mark Halsey, Keith Hackett, and Mark Clattenburg called the shove unacceptable and said a red card was warranted as Ref Support UK urged tougher penalties.
- The system used by the FA and PGMOL, in line with FIFA guidance, generally avoids re-refereeing incidents when an official has seen and punished the act, which limits upgrades after the fact.
- With no ban anticipated, reports say Martinelli trained with the squad and is likely available for upcoming fixtures as Arsenal refocus on league and European ties.