Former Premier League referee gives his verdict on Nicolas Jackson's red card
Context:
Nicolas Jackson, a Chelsea player, was sent off with a red card during a match against Newcastle United after initially receiving a yellow card for elbowing Sven Botman, a decision later upgraded through VAR intervention. This incident proved detrimental for Chelsea, leading to a 2-0 defeat and harming their UEFA Champions League qualification prospects. Former Premier League referee Mark Clattenburg agreed with the decision, emphasizing that Jackson's actions met the criteria for serious foul play due to the force and malice involved. As a result, Jackson will miss the final two league games, impacting Chelsea's lineup against Manchester United and Nottingham Forest. Despite his availability for Chelsea's UEFA Conference League final against Real Betis, it is uncertain if coach Enzo Maresca will select him after this controversial incident.
Dive Deeper:
Nicolas Jackson received a red card for elbowing Sven Botman during a match against Newcastle United, initially given a yellow card but upgraded through VAR review, which contributed to Chelsea's 2-0 loss and affected their Champions League qualification chances.
Former referee Mark Clattenburg supported the red card decision, noting Jackson's actions involved leading with his elbow at speed, which constitutes using the elbow as a weapon and meets the criteria for serious foul play.
The red card means Jackson will be unavailable for Chelsea's crucial matches against Manchester United and Nottingham Forest, posing a challenge for coach Enzo Maresca in the final league games.
Despite a promising start to the season, Jackson's send-off leaves him with a season tally of 10 goals and 5 assists, casting a shadow over his contributions to the team.
Jackson remains eligible for the UEFA Conference League final against Real Betis, but his participation is uncertain due to doubts about his selection following the disciplinary issue.
Various former players have expressed agreement with the red card decision, suggesting Jackson left the referee with no alternative due to his reckless behavior on the field.
Rohit George, a content producer for The Sporting News, reported that Jackson's actions and subsequent suspension have made him a controversial figure at Chelsea, affecting team dynamics and future tactical decisions.
Nicolas Jackson has become the most hated person in Chelsea following his needless sending off against Newcastle United on Sunday.
Jackson was initially shown a yellow card for elbowing Sven Botman in the head during the first half at St. James Park. But after VAR intervention, referee John Brooks upgraded his yellow card to a red card.
The incident proved costly for Chelsea as the Blues slumped to a 2-0 defeat away from home that jeopardised their chances of qualifying for next season’s UEFA Champions League.
In the aftermath of the sending off, various former players have stated their agreement with the decision, saying that Jackson gave the referee no choice but to show him the red card.
Now, former Premier League referee Mark Clattenburg has also weighed in with his opinion on the matter.
Speaking to the Chelsea Chronicle, Clattenburg was in complete agreement with the decision, saying, “This is a good example where VAR works. Jackson challenged Botman for the ball, leading with his elbow, which catches Botman on the face. What does not help Jackson’s defence for not receiving a red card is that he looks at his opponent and runs at some speed, leading with the elbow, which acts as a weapon.”
“To receive a red card for serious foul play, the player has to act with force and malice, and in this case, both criteria are met and is given a deserved red card, which will rule him out for the rest of the season.”
He will now be unavailable for Chelsea’s final two league games against Manchester United and Nottingham Forest, in a blow to Enzo Maresca.
The 23-year-old Senegalese international made a stong start to the season in front of goal but his poor decision against Newcastle means that he will end the Premier League season with just 10 goals and 5 assists to his name.
Though Jackson will still be available for Chelsea’s UEFA Conference League final against Real Betis later this month, it remains to be seen whether Maresca picks him for that game after his actions against Newcastle.
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