Aston Villa robbed as ex-PGMOL chief speaks out on Hull City controversy

Aston Villa had a shout of a penalty just before half-time against Hull City when Nicolas Jackson was pushed over in the box.

The score was set at 0-0 at the time, as it remained, and the decision to award a penalty could have flipped the script of the game.

Villa were struggling to break down the Tigers, but had the best chances of the game at that stage.

In the end, VAR did have a check, but Michael Oliver's on-field decision would remain the same.

And that proved to be quite a pivotal decision in the end, with the game ending goalless.

Now, former PGMOL chief and FIFA referee Keith Hackett has reacted to the incident and provides his verdict exclusively to Villa News.

Should Aston Villa have been awarded a penalty against Hull City?

Aston Villa may very well have reason to feel hard done by due to Oliver's refusal to award a penalty at the stroke of half-time.

A sumptuous ball was delivered into the path of striker Jackson, but Hull City's Nobel Mendy put him off in a risky way, pushing him to the ground.

Hackett said about Mendy's push on Jackson: "There is a clear shove and I can fully understand the claims for a penalty kick by Aston Villa.

"Referee Michael Oliver is in a good viewing position and obviously determines that there is insufficient force in the push and the Villa player went to ground too easily.

"On this occasion, my observation swings towards a foul and an award of a penalty kick."

Villa will now have to roll up their sleeves and head into the next game looking to finally get a win over the line.

Although, they will feel robbed on this occasion.

Should Aston Villa start to worry?

Villa cannot be relying on refereeing decisions to get wins on the board, although luck can be crucial in a season.

Right now, Unai Emery's side are fresh out of that luck.

But there are some positive signs for the Spanish manager. Aston Villa are creating chances, and goalkeeper Zion Suzuki looks to be an excellent purchase.

It is only a matter of time before Emery gets a tune out of these players, but that penalty call may have helped speed up the process.

It is still too early to worry, and as last season showed after five games without a goal, things can change quickly.