Former Premier League referees’ chief Keith Hackett has called on match officials to closely monitor Chelsea fullback Marc Cucurella, following his controversial display in the Blues’ 2-2 draw with Bournemouth.

Hackett expressed his concerns after Cucurella avoided a yellow card for a clash with Bournemouth’s David Brooks during the match. The incident has added to the growing scrutiny surrounding the Spaniard’s behavior on the pitch.

Speaking to Football Insider, Hackett remarked: “Cucurella is beginning to become a serious offender in games, and match officials in their preparations should be aware that he is a player to keep an eye on.”

He also criticised the defender for his on-field antics: “His act is a blatant unfair impeding offence for which he should have received a yellow card.”

As pressure mounts, both Cucurella and Chelsea will be hoping to avoid further controversies in the matches ahead, while officials may indeed heed Hackett’s warning.