Former referee reveals next steps after Millwall report Taty Castellanos over alleged spitting

Millwall have reported West Ham forward Taty Castellanos following an alleged incident involving goalkeeper Filip Marschall during Saturday’s 2-2 draw at The Den.

Castellanos completed the entire match as West Ham recovered from a two-goal deficit to rescue a point, but the result was overshadowed by an allegation made against the Argentina international during the second half.

The incident occurred around the 65th minute when Castellanos moved towards Marschall as the Millwall goalkeeper stood over the ball.

Television coverage then showed Marschall appearing to indicate that he had been spat at. Sky Sports subsequently reported that Millwall had made a complaint about the incident.

Millwall manager Alex Neil said he had not personally spoken to Marschall about the allegation but believed the relevant authorities would examine what happened.

“I’m sure there’ll be footage of it – or not if it didn’t happen,” Neil said, adding that he would be surprised if his goalkeeper had made such an accusation without reason.

Former Premier League referee Keith Hackett has now explained what could happen if the complaint leads to an investigation.

Hackett said allegations of spitting are covered by the laws of the game and suggested that the Football Association could examine available footage before deciding whether disciplinary action is warranted.

He also pointed to the number of camera angles typically available at professional matches, which could potentially help establish what happened.

According to Hackett, if evidence were to prove the offence, Castellanos could face a suspension, with the eventual punishment depending on the findings.

West Ham manager Nuno Espirito Santo previously said he had not seen the incident himself and therefore could not offer a definitive assessment.

At this stage, the allegation remains unproven, and any disciplinary decision would depend on the evidence gathered by the relevant authorities.