Kalidou Koulibaly was lucky to avoid a red card for a “disgraceful” challenge during Chelsea’s match against Southampton.
The Blues defender was only shown a yellow card by referee David Coote for a high tackle on Paul Onuachu just four minutes into the match at Stamford Bridge. Koulibaly had attempted to clear the ball as Onuachu closed him down but caught the striker’s thigh with his studs as he followed through.
Despite Coote and VAR not deeming the challenge worthy of a sending off, fans felt that Koulibaly was fortunate to remain on the pitch after the horror tackle.
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One shocked fan tweeted: “David Coote bottling a clear Chelsea red card at Stamford Bridge.” Another wrote: “Another VAR farce this time with Chelsea. How he got away without a red card I don’t understand.”
A third supporter also commented: “VAR is a disgrace that’s a red card and Chelsea get away with it.” The criticism of the officials continued as another fan said: “How is that not a red card? Koulibaly is nowhere near the ball.”
Koulibaly continued to struggle during the first half and was taken off by Graham Potter during the half-time interval, with Wesley Fofana coming of the bench to replace him.
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(Image: @Viaplay/TheEuropeanLad/Twitter)
However, that was not before James Ward-Prowse had given the visitors the lead in first half stoppage time as he beat Kepa Arrizabalaga with a free-kick from 25 yards out. The strike proved to be the only goal of the game.
Southampton, who remain without a manager following the sacking of Nathan Jones, had won just one of their last 11 in the Premier League going into the match in west London.
Saturday’s defeat leaves Chelsea without a victory in their last four league matches as they continue to languish in mid-table, 10 points adrift of the top four.
Koulibaly, who joined the Blues from Napoli in the summer, has already been sent off for Chelsea this season, receiving two yellow cards in just his third appearance for the club when they lost 3-0 away to Leeds United back in August.
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