Manchester United have received a significant boost as Bruno Fernandes’ red card has been overturned after a successful appeal to the Football Association (FA).
Fernandes, who was sent off during the 3-0 loss to Tottenham, will now be eligible to play in United’s upcoming Premier League matches against Aston Villa, Brentford, and West Ham. The red card was shown late in the first half when Fernandes appeared to slip while tracking James Maddison. Despite referee Chris Kavanagh’s decision to dismiss him, and VAR’s backing of the call, the FA has reversed the ruling.
Following the decision, Fernandes expressed his disappointment about being sent off, stating that while his slip led to contact with Maddison, he felt it was never deserving of a red card. He acknowledged it was a foul but argued that it did not warrant such a harsh punishment. Maddison himself reportedly agreed that the incident was not worthy of a red card.
Fernandes also highlighted that similar incidents involving other players, like Onana, have not led to such swift or severe decisions. He voiced his frustration, saying that if his tackle was considered a red card, many other challenges should be scrutinized in the same way.
Despite questions over his form this season, the United captain remains a key player, having contributed four assists across all competitions, although he has yet to score. Some had suggested that a suspension might offer him a chance to reset, but with the FA’s decision in his favor, Fernandes will continue to lead his team in their upcoming matches.
