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.”
Follow The Sporting News on WhatsApp
“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.
Chelsea news and related links
