'Serial offender' - Ex-PGMOL chief wants 'issue' addressed after Newcastle vs Aston Villa scenes

Emi Martinez is a “serious offender” when it comes to time-wasting, and it was no different in the clash between Newcastle United and Aston Villa.

That is according to former PGMOL chief and ex-FIFA referee, Keith Hackett, who exclusively told Football Insider that the IFAB are set to crack down on goalkeepers feigning injury in the Premier League.

Gianluigi Donnarumma was accused of the same against Leeds United, with Pep Guardiola using the time to share information with the rest of his players, and the shot-stopper being able to carry on after.

Aaron Ramsdale did the same against Man United in December, with Eddie Howe left bamboozled by Ruben Amorim‘s switch of formation. Questions remain over how best to stop time-wasting.

Emi Martinez runs down the clock against Newcastle United

In the 77th minute, Villa were just one goal ahead, thanks to Emi Buendia‘s 19th-minute strike, and Martinez went down holding his back after claiming a difficult corner at St James’ Park.

The Argentine is known for bending the rules from time to time, and this appeared to be another case of that, as he got back to his feet and continued playing after just a few seconds.

Jarred Gillett is one of the Premier League’s best referees, but even he was powerless against Martinez’s antics, having to stop the game to ensure the player was safe and unharmed.

Of course, it worked out for the Villans, with Ollie Watkins securing all three points in the 88th minute by netting his eighth goal of the league season, but the moment may never have arrived if not for his goalkeeper.

Hackett, exclusively speaking to Football Insider on The Final Whistle, said: “It’s difficult because, in many ways, you expect referees to be very proactive in how they manage the situation, to be consistent from minute one.

“The great thing, at last, is that the IFAB met last week and decided there’s an issue. If they’d watched games involving Aston Villa and Emi Martinez, they’d realise that he’s a serial offender, in the same way you get clubs at the bottom end, and they’re facing Arsenal, for example, you’re going actively reduce the amount of playing time.

“The lawmakers have come up with the scheme of eight seconds for goalkeepers, and referees haven’t needed to come in so much. And next season, they’re going to introduce the same on throw-ins.

“They’re going to look at potentially getting a replacement goalkeeper into position, or even an outfield player, and while they’re off the pitch, that time is extended. It’s all in discussion with the IFAB, and we’ll see their decisions as to how they’re going to tackle it.”

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