Gabriel Martinelli learns punishment decision for referee push amid red card verdict

Arsenal forward to escape retrospective action after key incident in FA Cup exit

Gabriel Martinelli should have been shown a red card during Arsenal’s FA Cup defeat to Southampton, according to former Premier League referee Mark Halsey.

Martinelli played the full 90 minutes at St Mary’s on Saturday night but could not prevent Arsenal from falling to a 2-1 loss as their hopes of a treble were dashed when Shea Charles netted a late winner for Southampton.

The Brazilian was involved in a flashpoint as the Gunners chased an equaliser as he pushed referee Sam Barrott in an attempt to take a free-kick quickly.

Martinelli was booked for his actions but Hackett believes the Arsenal forward should have been sent off.

He said: “Referee Sam Barrott awarded a free-kick to Arsenal, Martinelli comes rushing in and he pushes Sam out of the way.

“Now I’m sorry, Gabriel Martinelli showed total disrespect for the match official Sam Barrott in that situation.