The Football Association has announced that no further action will be taken against linesman Constantine Hatzidakis after he appeared to elbow Liverpool's Andy Robertson in last weekend's draw with Arsenal at Anfield.
As Paul Tierney's half-time whistle blew at Anfield with Arsenal leading 2-1, Robertson approached Hatzidakis as he made his way onto the field to reconvene with his fellow referees.
Hatzidakis did not stop to engage in conversation with Robertson, and footage showed the official thrusting his elbow in the direction of the left-back's face as he walked away.
An incensed Robertson immediately complained to Tierney that he was struck by Hatzidakis - being booked for his protests - and the linesman came out to officiate the second half as normal.
While the second half was ongoing, the PGMOL stated that they were aware of the incident and would be investigating once the game had finished, and Hatzidakis was subsequently stood down from this weekend's fixtures.
© Reuters
However, the FA have now released a statement confirming that Hatzidakis has escaped punishment for the alleged elbow, having reviewed footage, witness statements and "surrounding circumstances".
"We have thoroughly reviewed all of the evidence in relation to the recent incident at Anfield involving the Liverpool defender Andrew Robertson and match official Constantine Hatzidakis, and we will be taking no further action," a statement read.
"Our comprehensive process involved reviewing detailed statements from Liverpool and PGMOL, as well as multiple angles of video footage, in relation to both the incident and its surrounding circumstances."
Hatzidakis himself has said sorry to Robertson for the incident, and the Scotland international is believed to have immediately accepted the official's apology during a Zoom call.
© Reuters
"I fully assisted The FA with their investigation and have discussed the matter directly with Andy Robertson during an open and positive conversation," Hatzidakis said through a PGMOL statement.
"It was certainly not my intention to make any contact with Andy as I pulled my arm away from him and for that I have apologised. I look forward to returning to officiating matches."
Liverpool found themselves two goals down against the Gunners thanks to Gabriel Jesus and Gabriel Martinelli's efforts, but strikes from Mohamed Salah and Roberto Firmino rescued a point for the Reds in a 2-2 draw.
That four-goal stalemate left Liverpool eighth in the Premier League table with 44 points from 29 games this season ahead of Monday's clash with Leeds United at Elland Road.
Ben Knapton
