Due to his exceptional track record of fitness, Bruno Fernandes rarely takes a break, although he currently has one that is mandated. However, these are not conditions Manchester United can be content with.
While Fernandes’ first red card of his United career against Tottenham most likely had no bearing on the outcome of the game, the midfielder will now have to serve a three-game suspension.
Following the match, Fernandes acknowledged that he had slipped and hadn’t intentionally fouled Maddison. He also thought the red card should have been reduced.
Fernandes VAR error
The red card was given by referee Chris Kavanagh on the pitch, and it appeared to be a significant foul in real time.
However, it was evident from numerous angle replays that Maddison was not seriously fouled and that Fernandes’ studs did not make contact with her leg.
Nevertheless, VAR official Peter Bankes upheld the ruling, concurring that there had been “serious foul play.”
On Match of the Day 2, former Manchester United defender Phil Jones criticised VAR.
“I’m positive it’s not a red card,” he stated. I refuse to downplay it. See, as soon as he entered, our initial reaction was to give him the red card. Red card at first, but if you watch it closely, you can see that he was sort of caught off guard.
“There’s no true studs, and there’s no malice. No studs are visible. Therefore, I can understand why the referee gave the red card in real time, but I don’t really understand why it hasn’t been reversed. Just remember, it’s not a red card.
In agreement, retired referee Mark Halsey told The Sun, “The issue to ask is why VAR Peter Bankes did not get involved, as he sees what we see.
“VAR might have suggested a review, and I’m sure Kavanagh would have reconsidered.”
Dermot Gallagher, a former referee, chastised Kavanagh for making the incorrect call in the first place.
The Premier League decides on Peter Bankes
The Premier League has now made public the lineup for this next weekend’s games.
Despite the significant criticism of his decision, VAR official Peter Bankes is not facing any serious consequences.
The Premier League match between Manchester City and Fulham will be officiated by Bankes.
Chris Kavanagh, the referee, will oversee Chelsea’s match against Nottingham Forest in the meantime.
The Premier League has already punished or removed officials from their positions for infractions, even sending them down to the Championship.
This isn’t the situation following Bruno Fernandes’ red card, with both players expected to play all weekend.
Robert Jones will officiate Manchester United’s match against Aston Villa. Jones officiated the first game between Fulham and United.
