Former PGMOL Chief Warns Tottenham and Aston Villa Face Retrospective Sanctions, Fines Could Reach £250k

Thomas Frank and Unai Emery may see members of their squads face suspensions following Tottenham’s heated FA Cup third-round clash with Aston Villa.

Former PGMOL boss and ex-FIFA referee Keith Hackett told Football Insider that referee Craig Pawson allowed the situation to escalate during the tie on Saturday, 10 January. A number of heavy challenges went unpunished, including an early incident involving Xavi Simons that escaped a clear booking, which only heightened tensions as the match wore on in North London.
Joao Palhinha was frequently involved in the flashpoints, although he eventually received a yellow card for a strong late tackle on Morgan Rogers during the closing moments of Spurs’ defeat.

Palhinha’s frustration was evident after full time, reacting angrily when Ollie Watkins celebrated in front of him. Pedro Porro also showed visible anger during the match, and scenes turned chaotic once the final whistle was blown, with players and staff needing to be separated.
Although Pawson chose not to discipline anyone at the time, Hackett believes the FA could still step in and take retrospective action. Palhinha and Rogers, who had previous confrontations during the game, are thought to be at particular risk if the authorities decide to review the footage in the coming weeks.

Speaking on Football Insider’s Final Whistle, Hackett warned the consequences could be serious. He explained that incidents involving players moving towards spectators can quickly spiral out of control, potentially leading to pitch invasions. Hackett is confident the FA will charge both clubs for failing to control their players and suggested further punishments could follow if referees confirm certain incidents were missed.

He added that substantial fines are possible, noting that clubs have previously faced penalties of up to £250,000, although such figures apply to the Premier League rather than the FA Cup. Under existing agreements, any fines imposed would ultimately be paid by the players.