“He’s lost his rag” - Chelsea legend Joe Cole delivers verdict on ‘reckless’ tackle from Wilfred Ndidi on Cole Palmer amid red card claims
Chelsea legend Joe Cole has delivered a verdict on Wilfred Ndidi's controversial tackle on Cole Palmer. This comes amid claims that the Leicester City midfielder should have been given a red card for the heavy tackle.
Both sides faced off at the King Power Stadium in their Premier League clash today (November 23), with the Blues winning 2-1. However, the Foxes might have ended the game with a red card and a three-match suspension for Ndidi.
In the 22nd minute, a reckless tackle from behind saw the Nigeria international catch Palmer on the Achilles heel. Ndidi's trailing left foot also cut Palmer down, causing the Blues to show their displeasure. The referee showed the yellow card to Ndidi immediately, and while it was reviewed by VAR, the decision stood.
However, many believe it should have been a red card, including Chelsea legend Joe Cole. During punditry duties on TNT Sports, the former midfielder said (via Daily Mail):
"That tackle, he [Ndidi] could hurt him [Palmer] there. If VAR is ever going to step in for reckless endangerment of a player. It's a terrible tackle."
Cole continued, slamming Ndidi and the Leicester team:
"This is a game Leicester where they were miles off it Leicester and at the height of their frustration. He's lost his rag, he should be sent off. He nearly scores the equaliser. If he plays a part in getting Leicester back in the game i'd imagine Enzo Maresca will be furious."
Indeed, Ndidi had a big chance to equalize the game while it was still 1-0, but he missed his effort, fluffing his shot instead of keeping it on target (42'). Chelsea went on to score their second goal in the second half (75'). A penalty from Jordan Ayew gave Leicester (90+5') provided Leicester with consolation.
Chelsea beat Leicester City 2-1 to continue their good run
A brilliant strike from Nicolas Jackson in the 15th minute set Chelsea on the path to all three points in the Premier League on Saturday. The Blues controlled the game throughout, keeping 64% possession, compared to Leicester City's 36%.
The Blues had more shots at goal (16) and more on target (7), while the Foxes had just four shots at goal and one on target. They also had fewer passes (257, 75% accuracy) than the Blues, who had 521 passes with 87% accuracy.
Much of Leicester's 1.11 xG came from Jordan Ayew's penalty (0.79 xG). Chelsea had a lot more chances and it showed, as they enjoyed over double the xG (2.64 xG), with most of it coming from open play. They are unbeaten in their last four Premier League games and sit third in the table.
