Manchester: Michael Carrick has strongly criticised the decision to send off Lisandro Martinez during Manchester United’s 2-1 defeat against Leeds United, calling it “one of the worst” refereeing calls he has ever seen.
The controversial moment came in the second half at Old Trafford when referee Paul Tierney issued a red card to Martinez after consulting VAR. The Argentine defender was adjudged to have pulled the hair of Leeds striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin during an on-field tussle.
VAR decision sparks outrage
Carrick did not hold back in his post-match remarks, expressing frustration over what he viewed as a harsh and unjust dismissal.
“I thought the boys stayed positive and fought after another shocking decision,” Carrick said. “Two games in a row we’ve had decisions like that go against us, but this one was one of the worst I’ve seen.”
He argued that the incident had been misinterpreted, suggesting Calvert-Lewin’s initial contact contributed to Martinez’s reaction.
According to Carrick, the defender merely made minimal contact while off balance rather than committing an aggressive act deserving of a red card.
Match context and key moments
United were already trailing after a first-half double from Noah Okafor put Leeds in control of the game.
Despite going down to 10 men, United showed resilience, with Casemiro scoring to reduce the deficit. However, they were unable to find an equaliser, suffering their second defeat in Carrick’s 11-match stint in charge.
Carrick also pointed to another controversial moment in the build-up to Leeds’ opening goal, claiming Leny Yoro had been fouled.
“We conceded when Leny Yoro gets a forearm smash in the back of the head,” he said, questioning why VAR did not intervene in that instance.
Possible ban and appeal decision
Martinez now faces a potential three-match suspension following the red card. Carrick indicated that the club would review the incident before deciding whether to appeal.
“I think it is a bad decision. We’ll have to discuss it,” he added.
Top-four race intensifies
Despite the setback, Manchester United remain in a strong position in the Premier League standings, sitting third and maintaining a seven-point cushion over sixth-placed Chelsea.
However, recent form—just one win in their last four matches—has added pressure ahead of a crucial clash against Chelsea, which could significantly impact the race for UEFA Champions League qualification.
Focus shifts to crucial fixtures
Carrick urged his players to move on quickly and focus on the challenges ahead.
“This is one game. We’ll look at it and improve. We’ve got another big, important game next week and a massive end to the season,” he said.
While disappointed with the result and officiating, Carrick emphasised that United are still in a favourable position heading into the final stretch of the campaign.
Conclusion
The controversial red card decision has added fresh debate around VAR and refereeing standards in English football. For Manchester United, the focus now shifts to maintaining their league position and securing Champions League qualification despite recent setbacks.
(This story has not been edited by News Karnataka staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Comments are closed.