Keith Hackett shocked by match official's reaction after footage of Middlesbrough vs West Brom incident analysed

West Brom's 3-1 loss to Middlesbrough sparked controversy on Saturday.

The Baggies put in a spirited performance but ultimately came away from the Riverside Stadium with nothing.

Jimmy-Jay Morgan had equalised after Will Lankshear's opener, but another goal from the former Albion loanee and an Alfie Jones goal sealed three points for the hosts.

It was not without incident, though, as Lankshear's first strike was blatantly offside after he picked up the ball after it had bounced off Max O'Leary.

It was not recognised by the match officials and the goal stood, changing the complexion of the game.

Former FIFA-listed official Keith Hackett has shared his view on the matter, which left James Morrison's side reeling.

What did Keith Hackett say about Will Lankshear incident vs West Brom?

The former PGMOL chief is shocked that the assistant referee did not see the offside and rule the goal out, after seeing footage of the incident.

Speaking exclusively to West Brom News, he said: "The Middlesborough goal should have been ruled out.

"The Middlesborough goalscorer was in an offside position when the shot on goal was made.

"He then gained possession and in law ‘gained an advantage’, so I am surprised the assistant did not detect this."

It certainly raises an interesting question given what happened to Morrison's side already earlier in the season.

Why West Brom will be looking for Will Lankshear punishment

The Baggies will surely be looking at the fact that Lankshear never went and informed the match officials about the fact that he was offside with interest.

Aune Heggebo was banned for two matches after apparently deceived the officials with his handball goal against Norwich on the opening weekend.

That was despite the Norwegian having just 0.1 seconds to react as the ball hit his hand, after deflecting off the goalkeeper.

The Black Country side should be looking for Lankshear to be handed a similar punishment, after the ridiculous precedent that has already been set by the EFL.

Whether they follow through and punish the 21-year-old remains to be seen, but there is grounds and he did not admit to his offence, that had a pivotal impact on the clash.

Consistency is key, and if they fail to apply it here, then there will be a lot of question marks going forward.