Tottenham contact PGMOL chief Webb over inconsistent referee decisions
Tottenham have written to PGMOL chief Howard Webb to express concern over inconsistent refereeing decisions involving contact in the penalty area.
Sources have told BBC Sport the correspondence focuses on varying interpretations of fouls that have led to goals being either allowed or disallowed.
The north London club believe they have been on the wrong end of several key incidents during the current campaign.
Dispute over penalty box contact
Spurs highlighted a decision during their 4-1 derby defeat by Arsenal on 22 February where Randal Kolo Muani had an equaliser ruled out.
Officials adjudged the France international had pushed defender Gabriel in the back before scoring, a decision supported by referee Peter Bankes.
Bankes later explained on ‘Match Officials Mic’d Up’ that seeing “two hands on the back” constituted a clear offence with sufficient impact.
However, Tottenham questioned why Harry Wilson’s opener was allowed to stand during Saturday’s 2-1 loss to Fulham at Craven Cottage.
Raul Jimenez appeared to push Spurs defender Radu Dragusin in the build-up, but the goal stood as the contact was deemed below the threshold for a foul.
Tudor labels decision an ‘incredible mistake’
Interim head coach Igor Tudor voiced his frustration immediately following the defeat in west London.
“Of course, it’s a foul. It’s always a foul. It’s an incredible mistake.”Igor Tudor, Tottenham interim head coach
It is understood the letter provides further examples of similar situations resulting in differing outcomes this season.
Newcastle striker Nick Woltemade’s goal against Arsenal in September was included as a case where contact on a defender was interpreted differently.
Webb’s push for transparency
Since his appointment as chief refereeing officer in 2022, Webb has sought to improve transparency regarding how decisions are reached.
The former World Cup final referee has also strived to maintain constructive direct engagement with Premier League clubs.
The PGMOL has declined to comment on the correspondence.