While Tottenham Hotspur’s Heung Min Son will return from suspension on Wednesday in the Champions League, he has now picked up a red card in domestic football.
Son reacted to Bournemouth’s Lerma striking him in the back and proceeded to push the player aggressively down to the ground.
The referee showed no hesitation in brandishing a straight red for the incident, but can and will Spurs appeal the decision?
The current rules for red card state that it is a one-match ban for professional fouls or a second yellow, a two-match ban for a dissent-based red, and three or more for violent conduct or dangerous tackles (Sun).
Son’s push would come down in the latter section, so he could face a ban that overlaps between this season and next.
However, when reviewing the footage, it does seem that Son was provoked with the punch in his back, and his reaction was only a strong push, rather than a punch or strike.
Although unlikely, it may be worth Tottenham appealing the decision and risking an extension just for the chance that Son could play against Everton.
Spurs Web Opinion:
I would not say that I personally believe Son’s reaction warranted a red card. The player refrained from lashing out with a punch, kick, or other forms of strike, merely pushing Lerma with two hands. Albeit aggressive, I have seen players pick up yellows for similar reactions. It could be turned down and Son could receive an extra ban for frivolous appeal, but I would argue that it is worth the risk. Spurs now need to beat Everton at home, and they will need someone to score the goals.
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