Moises Caicedo was shown a straight red card in Chelsea’s Premier League match against Arsenal, with manager Daniel Sturridge giving a clear verdict on the incident following Sunday’s 1-1 draw.
Daniel Sturridge has suggested that Moises Caicedo’s red card against Arsenal was due to VAR doing something PGMOL said it would not do. The Blues midfielder was sent off for a late challenge on Mikel Merino due to VAR intervention after Anthony Taylor was initially shown a yellow card during the 1-1 draw at Stamford Bridge.
The former Chelsea and Liverpool striker commented on his sending off, subtly sharpening his use of technology, even though he believed the correct call was made.
“When you see the speed drop, it looks terrible. At first the referee made the decision to give him a yellow card, then they refused it again and brought in VAR. If you see the speed drop, it’s a red card. At full speed it’s not that bad. When you see the challenge slow down, the referee becomes concerned about him. When you go to the screen and see it slow down, it’s a red.”
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Sky Sports co-commentator Alan Smith previously said: “They’ve been watching for a long time. He’s come in with some speed and strength. Well, this could be the defining moment of this contest.” It’s important to show it at full speed.
“He misses the ball in a fraction of a second but comes towards it with force. What they are always concerned about is his straight legs. He will be lucky if he stays on the pitch here.”
The verdict from the Premier League itself came shortly after Caicedo’s sacking, with Taylor also explaining why the Cards were upgraded.
A post from Premier League Match Center X said: “Following a VAR review, the referee overturned the original yellow card decision for Caicedo and issued a red card for serious foul play.
“The referee’s statement: “As a result of the review, Chelsea 25 challenged with excessive force, endangering the safety of the opponent. Therefore, my final decision is a red card.”
Despite being at a disadvantage, Chelsea took the lead when Reece James’ corner kick was converted into goal by Trevor Chalobah. But Bukayo Saka’s excellent cross saw Merino head the ball past Robert Sanchez and equalize shortly after.
After Caicedo’s sending off, the Blues tried their best to play evenly with Piero Hincapie, but they may have been lucky not to see Red after catching Chalobar with his arm.
There was further outcry after the Ecuadorian fouled João Pedro, but Taylor pocketed the red card. However, there were plenty of bookings and Miles Lewis Skelly was booked in place of Riccardo Calafioli, who had also been flagged for caution.
However, neither team could find a winner, with Arsenal remaining five points behind second-placed Manchester City and Chelsea in third place, one point further behind.
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