Did Lisandro Martinez escape a red card? Independent panel come to unanimous agreement on Man Utd star’s controversial two-footed tackle vs Crystal Palace

Per ESPN, the Premier League’s Key Match Incidents (KMI) independent panel unanimously backed referee David Coote’s decision to not send off Martinez during Manchester United’s clash against Crystal Palace last Saturday. The Argentine defender attempted a two-footed tackle on opponent Daichi Kamada for which he was cautioned with a yellow card instead of being sent off.

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  THE BIGGER PICTURE

  While the opponent and several fans demanded a direct red for the United star, Coote went by the UEFA rules, which are followed by the PGMOL and the Premier League. The rule clearly states that if a player does not make contact and complete the action before reaching the opposition player, only a yellow card will be shown. Martinez did attempt a two-footed tackle on Kamada, however, he reached the ground without touching the Japanese midfielder.

  WHAT HAS BEEN SAID

  The official decision from the KMI is yet to be revealed, however, ESPN got access to the documents which read, “The action viewed in isolation is a ridiculous challenge. Martinez is so fortunate that he doesn’t contact Kamada. It supported as correct on the basis that the action by Martinez had been completed and no contact was made, however, the panel felt very strongly that this type of challenge has no place on the pitch.”

  The document added, “It’s a strong challenge made at full speed but below the threshold for a second caution. The intensity of the challenge is too high and it’s a reckless tackle showing disregard to the consequences for the opponent.”

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    WHAT NEXT FOR MANCHESTER UNITED?

    Erik ten Hag’s side will begin their Europa League journey on Wednesday as they take on FC Twente before facing Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday in a crucial Premier League fixture.