Former referee Graham Barber has explained why Chelsea midfielder Cole Palmer could have been sent off earlier during his side’s clash with Tottenham Hotspur.
Barber was particularly critical of Palmer’s confrontation with Bruno Fernandes, arguing that the Chelsea star’s actions could have justified a straight red card. Although the referee decided to show him a yellow card instead, the former official felt Palmer’s reaction was unnecessary and difficult to defend.
Barber also stressed the importance of referees correctly applying the rules when players commit multiple bookable offences during a match.
Palmer eventually received his marching orders after picking up a second yellow card for a late challenge on Conor Gallagher, leaving Chelsea to continue with ten men.
Tottenham took advantage of their numerical superiority after going ahead through a Mike Penders own goal. Mathys Tel then produced a superb late finish to secure a 2-0 victory for Spurs.
The result handed Tottenham a memorable win over their London rivals, while Chelsea were left frustrated by their performance and disciplinary issues.
Barber’s comments have added further fuel to the debate surrounding Palmer’s earlier clash with Fernandes, with questions being raised over whether the midfielder was fortunate to remain on the pitch at that stage of the game.
