Manchester United defender Harry Maguire was handed an additional match suspension following his red card dismissal for denial of a clear and obvious goalscoring opportunity at Bournemouth nearly a month ago. The play was the result of a VAR review and prompted furious protests from Maguire and his teammates. It also gave the Cherries a penalty, which leveled the game in an eventual 2-2 draw.
In the written report of the incident, fourth official Matt Donohue accused Maguire of shouting “You’re a joke. You’re all a **_\*_** joke,“ on his way down the tunnel.
In addition to an extra match out, Maguire was also fined £30,000 by the English FA, who said in a statement that the defender “acted in an improper manner and/or used abusive and/or insulting words and/or behaviour towards the fourth official following his dismissal.”
Maguire apologized and acknowledged his behavior.
The news is particularly frustrating given another red card for Lisandro Martinez, who may miss up to three matches after he was sent off against Leeds United for a tug on Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s ponytail.
Interim boss Michael Carrick was furious at the decision, calling it “one of the worst” refereeing decisions he has seen. He also said that the club will appeal.
United are left with just two clear and healthy center back options for the clash at Chelsea this weekend: Leny Yoro and Ayden Heaven.