Celtic defender Colby Donovan became the topic of discussion for a potential red card on Wednesday night, and now a high-ranking former Premier League referee has weighed in on the “close” call.

Celtic were trailing at home to Dundee United, who had scored two goals in three minutes. Donovan then lunged into a challenge and was subsequently booked in the first half.

You can view the challenge below, two minutes into the video.

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It became a widely discussed moment when the Hoops were chasing an equaliser.

Former PGMOL chief and Premier League official Keith Hackett has given his verdict, saying the incident falls “just short” of a red card offence. Speaking to Football Insider, he said: 

“The referee judged this challenge as reckless, hence the yellow card. During the challenge, the offender’s body was always in contact with the ground.

“It is that fact and reason why the player got a yellow and not a red card, albeit his leading leg going into the challenge was high. It’s a yellow card, close to a red, but one that falls just short. I’ll support the referee on this one.”

Many believe the Celtic defender got away with one, especially given the decisions that have been deemed red card-worthy before.

Hackett explains why he believes it’s a yellow card offence, but if Donovan could’ve perhaps been given his marching orders.

The Hoops found an equaliser in the second half, with Liam Scales heading in Jota’s cross. It was a match that felt like two points dropped and a missed opportunity to extend their four-point lead at the top of the table after Hearts and Rangers’ draw.

Up next is a trip to Falkirk on Sunday, with Donovan in line to keep his spot at right-back in place of the injured Alistair Johnston.