Manchester United have successfully appealed the red card issued to midfielder Bruno Fernandes during their 3-0 defeat to Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday, September 29, 2024.
Fernandes was controversially sent off in the 42nd minute for a high tackle on Spurs’ playmaker James Maddison, with referee Chris Kavanagh showing him a straight red, a decision supported by VAR official John Brooks.
Fernandes, United’s captain, appeared to lose his footing before lunging toward Maddison with his studs raised. Despite missing the ball entirely, the referee judged the tackle to be dangerous and dismissed the Portuguese international from the game.
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United promptly appealed the decision, contending that Fernandes’ slip was unintentional and should not have resulted in a red card. In a statement released by the Football Association (FA), it was confirmed that the appeal had been successful: “Bruno Fernandes will be available for Manchester United’s next three games following a successful claim of wrongful dismissal.”
Football pundit Gary Neville welcomed the decision, stating, “It was clear Fernandes didn’t have any malicious intent, and it’s the right call by the FA. United were already struggling in that match, and losing their captain only compounded the issue.”
With the card overturned, Fernandes will now be available for selection in Manchester United’s upcoming fixtures, providing a much-needed boost for the Red Devils as they aim to recover from their recent poor form.