Referee Mark Clattenburg has outlined why Chelsea forward Nicolas Jackson deserved his red card against Newcastle United on Sunday. The Senegalese striker was sent off after he bumped Sven Botman’s face with his elbow during an aerial duel.
Understandably, Chelsea fans were incensed with Jackson. His dismissal ended up in a 2-0 loss at St James’ Park in what was a must-win match. The defeat has badly hurt their chances of Champions League football next year. Speaking about VAR getting the decision right, Clattenburg explained on the social media platform X:
“This is a good example where VAR works. Jackson challenged Botman for the ball leading with his elbow which catches Botman on the face.”
He further went on to describe why the red card was the correct decision:
“What does not help Jackson’s defence for not receiving a red card is that he looks at his opponent and runs at some speed leading with the elbow which acts as a weapon.”
Enzo Maresca Explains He Will Speak to Nicolas Jackson After Costly Red
Enzo Maresca cut a rather frustrated figure when Nicolas Jackson picked up a red card. He was left fuming as Jackson walked into the tunnel, refusing even to acknowledge the striker.
Speaking to the press about the Senegalese international afterwards, the head coach was not pleased:
“And then with Nico I didn’t speak [to him], it’s not the moment. Probably in the next day we’re going to speak with Nico…
“What you have to do is avoid this kind of thing because you need all your squad available for the next game. But it happened, now he will be out for the rest of the season, and hopefully he can learn for the future.”
Chelsea’s loss has left them with a mountain to climb. With two games left in the Premier League season, the Blues must now win both to qualify for the Champions League. Pressure is building on Enzo Maresca’s team, as dropping points from one of their next two games could see them miss out on top five.