'Wow, interesting' - Ex-refs chief re-analyses Leeds vs Sunderland penalty controversy

Former PGMOL chief Keith Hackett says the penalty decision was extremely difficult but backs referee Stuart Attwell's call not to award it for the Calvert-Lewin incident.

Stuart Attwell faced a contentious decision during Sunday's goalless draw between Sunderland and Leeds United at the Stadium of Light when Dominic Calvert-Lewin appeared to be fouled by Luke O'Nien in the six-yard box late in the match.

Former PGMOL chief and ex-FIFA referee Keith Hackett told Football Insider exclusively that he could not be 100 per cent certain a penalty should have been awarded. "I've seen them given; I've seen them not given. It's not 100%. I'll go with the referee," Hackett said after reviewing the footage. He praised Attwell's management of the difficult match in poor weather conditions and noted the referee's improved demeanor on the pitch.

The draw leaves Leeds seventh, two spots below Europa League qualification after eight games, while Sunderland remain bottom of the Premier League table with only one win so far.