According to Sky Sources today, Chelsea have confirmed they are going to be appealing the red card that Martin Atkinson showed Nemanja Matic on Saturday. As a result of a horrific tackle from Burnley’s Ashley Barnes, Matic lost his head and violently pushed Barnes to the ground. Barnes escaped any punishment during the game, despite various strong and dangerous challenges.
Since the game on Saturday, Matic has received signs of support from pundits and team mates alike. Thibaut Courtois spoke after the game, claiming the red card was the correct decision by the referee due to the Serbian’s reaction. However they did understand the actions from the midfielder. Whilst speaking on Sky’s Goals on Sunday, Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho quoted: “Clearly Matic had a reason to lose his emotions. What could be the consequences of a push for the other player? Nothing. The consequence for Matic could be end of career”.
The Chelsea boss has been making the headlines since the start of the season, claiming the FA are running an alleged ‘Campaign against Chelsea’. After a number of dubious decisions have not been given in Chelsea’s favour, to rescind the Red Card would be justified and would certainly aid the FA in avoiding more questions of a ‘Campaign against Chelsea’.
If the appeal against the red card was to be unsuccessful, Matic would serve a three match ban. The ban would include the Capital One Cup final against London rivals, Tottenham. It was not just Mourinho who publically showed his support for Matic. Whilst covering BBC’s Match of the Day, former Newcastle Striker Alan Shearer had this to say on the incident: “It’s a horrific tackle, it really is. It’s dangerous, it’s naughty and it’s terrible. I understand Matić’s reaction, it’s not right but I understand it because he could have had his leg broke”.
At present, there has been no date revealed on when the decision could be made, however reports claim that the decision is likely to be fast tracked by the FA, similarly to the incident involving Diego Costa and Emre Can.
