ARSENAL BREAKING: Premier League panel has issued its final verdict regarding Declan Rice’s red card against Brighton.
The Premier League’s Key Match Incidents commission has rendered its judgement regarding referee Chris Kavanagh’s decision to dismiss Declan Rice during Arsenal’s draw with Brighton.
Rice was inadvertently cited for a reckless challenge on Joel Veltman at the conclusion of the first half, following Kai Havertz’s goal for the Gunners.
Moments after the resumption, the England international was once again in hot water for attempting to take a quick free kick by nudging the ball away from Veltman.
Kavanagh controversially issued Rice his marching orders, despite allegations that a comparable incident involving Joao Pedro had gone unpunished earlier in the game.
After Arsenal was reduced to ten men, Brighton quickly regained control of the game, with Pedro bringing the visitors even.
The authority has unanimously supported Kavanagh’s decision to send Rice off for the first time in his career, following a review of the incident.
‘Rice is aware of his actions; it is a gentle contact, but the referee is compelled to take action once he observes it,’ the KMI panel stated.
Rice will be suspended as Arteta’s team endeavours to maintain their undefeated campaign record against Spurs on Sunday, as the original decision is upheld.
The Arsenal manager maintained that he was “amazed” by the inconsistency in Kavanagh’s judgements on the day following the sending-off.
‘I was astounded. Amazed, amazed, flabbergasted by the inconsistent nature of decisions. There are two incidents in the initial half, but then nothing occurs.
Afterward, the ball strikes Declan on the back of his leg in a non-critical area. He turns around, fails to perceive the approaching player, and accidentally contacts the ball.
“He is permitted to make that call by law; however, he is obligated to make the subsequent call, which is a red card, so we will engage in a 10-on-10 game.” This is the source of my amazement. It is remarkable at this level.
In any case, I reiterate my stance: it is mandatory to perform the action in the first half and play 10 against 10. That concludes the matter. It is exceedingly straightforward