The English Football Association (FA) have taken no further action against Constantine Hatzidakis after the assistant referee was seen appearing to elbow Liverpool defender Andy Robertson at half-time in the clash between the Reds and Arsenal. The Scotland international walked up to the linesman and got hold of him, only to be seen to have been elbowed.
This prompted an angry reaction from Robertson as well as a handful of the home side, who appealed to match referee Paul Tierney. The situation was later scrutinised on live television, prompting an investigation from the FA into the events that transpired, suspending Hatzidakis in the mean time.
The decision made on Thursday night has seen the official cleared from any further action, having concluded the investigation. Hatzidakis said in review: "I have discussed the matter directly with Andy Robertson during an open and positive conversation. It was not my intention to make any contact with Andy as I pulled my arm away from him and for that I have apologised."
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The situation comes as questions over refereeing continue to swirl, with such important decision coming at this stage in the season. The treatment of officials has come under increasing scrutiny too, especially after the FA Cup tie between Fulham and Manchester United.
After a decision to send off Willian for a handball in the box, manager Marco Silva was shown a red card for his conduct before Aleksandr Mitrovic was also given his marching orders for handling the referee. The FA then decided to extend the Serbian international's ban to an eight-game suspension.
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