(Credit: Imago)
(Credit: Imago)
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Andy Madley 'guessed' controversial decision in Tottenham win vs Doncaster - Keith Hackett

Alex Charlton
Alex Charlton

Alex is a lifelong Sunderland supporter who's been reporting on Mackem News since April 2025. Indeed, he started working for Breaking Media in April and has since graduated from St Mary's University as a NCTJ Gold Standard-accredited journalist, having completed his Master's degree in Sports Journalism. Alex previously worked for Football League World and has featured on the Roker Report, providing his opinion on all things Sunderland. While getting to the games is tricky, given his job, one of the highlights of his life was watching (and crying) as the Black Cats defeated Sheffield United at Wembley Stadium last season.

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Tottenham marched on under Thomas Frank after claiming victory in the third round of the Carabao Cup.

Spurs clinched a straightforward 3-0 win over Doncaster Rovers, thanks to goals from Joao Palhinha and Brennan Johnson, as well as an own goal from Jay McGrath.

The clash with the League One side allowed Frank to rotate his team, with Mathys Tel, Kevin Danso, and Archie Gray handed rare starts.

Andy Madley refereed the match and has been criticised for a decision that he made against the Lilywhites.

Joao Palhinha is closed down by PSG's Khvicha Kvaratskhelia.
(credit: Imago)

This article contains the exclusive opinion of former Premier League and FIFA-listed referee Keith Hackett.

Keith Hackett slams Andy Madley for Kevin Danso decision

Madley has come under scrutiny for his Carabao Cup performance, with several decisions questioned.

Xavi Simons went down easily on the edge of the area and should have been booked for simulation by the referee.

At the other end, Danso challenged Doncaster forward Brandon Hanlan and appeared to get the ball, rather than the player.

Indeed, Spurs' centre-back was baffled at the call, and Hackett believes that Madley made a mistake.

  • Spurs play Newcastle United in the next round
  • The match will be played at St James' Park
  • It is scheduled for the week of 27 October

"Poor officiating when a referee is caught so far from play with little or no viewing angle," Hackett exclusively told Tottenham News.

"It suggests to me that he “guessed” this one and got it wrong. The defender has every right to be disappointed with this incorrect call.

"Not one of Madley's best performances."

Kevin Danso looks shocked towards the referee.
(Credit: Sky Sports+)

Andy Madley continues to be involved in controversy with Tottenham

Madley has been involved in Spurs drama before, having sent off Mohammed Kudus for his push on Micky Van de Ven last season.

The referee was also involved in some questionable calls during the Lilywhites' loss to Fulham in March.

Raul Jiminez thought he should have had a penalty when he was pushed to the ground by Djed Spence, a decision that was criticised by Hackett.

In the same match, Lucas Bergvall claimed a penalty after being pushed by Calvin Bassey, although Madley appeared to make the correct decision.

When he referees the North London club again, his performance is sure to go under the microscope.

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Keith Hackett
Kevin Danso
Andrew Madley
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