New Delhi: Manchester United successfully appealed Bruno Fernandes’ red card, allowing him to avoid a three-match ban following their 3-0 loss to Tottenham. The incident happened in the first half when Fernandes made a challenge on James Maddison. Referee Chris Kavanagh issued a straight red card, which was later supported by VAR, leaving United with ten men for the remainder of the match. However, both Fernandes and his club disagreed with the decision, arguing it wasn’t a red card offence.
After the match, Fernandes voiced his frustration, stating that the challenge was never worthy of a red card. He admitted it was a foul but questioned the severity of the decision. Maddison himself reportedly told Fernandes it shouldn’t have been a red card.
The red card meant Fernandes would miss key fixtures against Aston Villa, Brentford, and West Ham, adding to the pressure already on Erik ten Hag’s side. But on Tuesday, the Football Association (FA) confirmed that United’s appeal had been successful, meaning Fernandes would be available for the upcoming Premier League matches.
Why was Fernandes’ red card overturned?
🚨 Manchester United have won their appeal of Bruno Fernandes’ red card against Tottenham.
He will be available for the next three fixtures. pic.twitter.com/8gD9mR8wgR
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) October 1, 2024
The FA decided to overturn the red card after carefully reviewing the incident. Fernandes had slipped during his challenge on Maddison, which led to him catching the Spurs player with his leg. Referee Chris Kavanagh deemed this to be serious foul play, with VAR backing the decision. However, Manchester United argued that the challenge was unintentional and didn’t meet the criteria for a straight red card.
In the appeal, United likely pointed out that Fernandes’ challenge wasn’t reckless or dangerous. Fernandes himself explained after the match that his leg made contact with Maddison’s shin rather than using his studs, which typically results in a more serious foul. The FA sided with this argument, agreeing that while the tackle was a foul, it didn’t justify the red card and subsequent suspension. As a result, the FA lifted the ban.
This decision comes as a relief for United, especially with Erik ten Hag’s team struggling for form. Losing Fernandes for three matches would have been a significant blow, as he is one of the club’s key players, both as a captain and a creative force.
Ten Hag mentioned that the red card changed the game against Spurs, making it harder for United to recover from a 1-0 deficit. With Fernandes on the pitch, the match could have had a different outcome.
The overturning of the red card also brings attention to the use of VAR and the consistency of refereeing decisions. Fernandes’ red card was reviewed by VAR and upheld, only to be overturned after further scrutiny. This highlights ongoing debates over how such decisions are made and whether VAR is being applied correctly.
What’s next for United?
With Fernandes cleared to play, Manchester United can now focus on their upcoming fixtures. Their next games against Aston Villa, Brentford, and West Ham will be critical as they aim to improve their league position.
United have struggled to find consistency this season, and keeping key players like Fernandes available is essential. His leadership and creativity will be crucial for Erik ten Hag’s side as they look to bounce back from recent setbacks.
While the FA’s decision to overturn the red card offers some relief, it doesn’t erase the fact that United were soundly beaten by Spurs. Ten Hag will need to address his team’s performance issues, but having Fernandes back on the pitch is a step in the right direction. For now, United can breathe a sigh of relief and focus on improving their results in the matches ahead.
Bruno Fernandes’ red card was overturned after Manchester United’s appeal, allowing him to avoid a crucial three-match suspension. Football Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
