Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez was sent off in the first half after he clattered into Manchester United's Rasmus Hojlund outside the penalty area
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Emiliano Martinez is sent off for Aston Villa against Manchester United
Emiliano Martinez was sent off for Aston Villa against Manchester United
(Image: PA)
Former Premier League referee Mike Dean believes there was doubt as to whether Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez deserved a red card against Manchester United on Sunday.
With the game all level heading towards half-time, Martinez being sent off stacked the odds against Villa.
Matty Cash's loose back pass was picked up by Rasmus Hojlund, who attempted to round Martinez but found himself wiped out by the Villa goalkeeper.
Immediately, referee Thomas Bramall sent Martinez off and gave a booking to Amad for simulating the action of a red card to the official.
Martinez complained that he was being covered by defender Pau Torres so he was not denying a goalscoring opportunity.
However, VAR Stuart Attwell was quick to rule this out and the Argentine was heading to the tunnel.
On Sky Sports News' Soccer Special coverage of the final day action, Dean told the panel why there was an element of doubt as to if Martinez would be sent off or not.
"To be honest with you, with the angle that the ball is going, there is a bit of doubt," Dean explained.
"But, he has got an on-field red card because I think Hojlund would have got there and had a shot on goal so the opportunity was there.
"For me, I think the on-field decision will stay as a red card."
Martinez's red card could be the final action for the 32-year-old in his illustrious career for Villa.
After the victory over Tottenham Hotspur last week, Martinez was visibly emotional as he thanked the fans for their support.
Since then, he has been heavily linked with other clubs.
United, Atletico Madrid and, today, Arsenal have been tipped with moving for Martinez, who remains under contract until 2029.
Pre-match, Unai Emery insisted that this afternoon will not be Martinez's last game for Villa.