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Chelsea have received an official explanation of one of the key decisions during their win over Brentford.
The Premier League has explained why Marc Cucurella was sent off during Chelsea’s win over Brentford on Sunday. The Blues moved to within two points of leaders Liverpool thanks to goals from Cucurella and Nicolas Jackson.
It was another huge win for the Blues as they force their way into the title race with consistent form. But there was one black mark on the win that came in the form of Cucurella’s late sending off, with the Spaniard receiving his second yellow card eight minutes into stoppage time.
That means Chelsea will be without their in-form left-back for next Sunday’s clash with Everton, but some fans were left confused by the situation. Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca said at full-time: “I didn’t see the second yellow card. The referee said the second yellow card was for bad attitude. There are things we can do better.”
Maresca’s explanation is close to the mark, with the Premier League’s Match Centre account confirming the reason for the yellow card on X. The account explained: “The referee issued a second yellow card to Cucurella for adopting an aggressive attitude. Schade was also booked for the same offence."
The account explains decisions made in Premier League fixtures, providing ‘information directly from Match Centre, the VAR Hub and PGMOL experts.’
With the sending off coming via two yellow cards, Chelsea will not be able to appeal the decision, and Cucurella will have to serve the one-game suspension.
Meanwhile, Brentford boss Thomas Frank has criticised Cucurella for his gamesmanship, saying: "I think Cucurella is a top player, he is doing well. "But I don't like it when players go to the ground and hold their face [incident in stoppage time]. I will say to Cucurella because I respect him massively."
Cucurella has been in fine form again this season, but there is no doubt that he falls into the category of player you want on your team but hate to play against, given his willingness to employ the dark arts.