Premier League release statement as Bournemouth man avoids red card for clothesline challenge on Cucurella
Chelsea fans couldn’t believe David Brooks’ robust clothesline challenge on Marc Cucurella wasn’t deemed violent conduct.
Shortly after Justin Kluivert equalised for the Cherries in the 2-2 draw, Cucurella was running away from his box as the Blues eyed a counter-attack.
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Cucurella was looking to start a Chelsea counter but was taken out by BrooksCredit: TNT SportsHe ran towards the left of the pitch but was brought down by Brooks and was seen holding his face on the turf.
Referee Robert Jones was told to review the incident by VAR, with the replays showing there was contact of the ball.
However, despite a lengthy review, Jones only showed a yellow card to Brooks, which left Chelsea fans on social media in disbelief.
Taking to X, one said: “So if you want to clothesline a player, go ahead at the expense of a yellow? Hahahahahah.”
READ MORE ON CHELSEA”HOW IS THAT NOT A RED???? Brooks nearly took Cucu’s head off,” a second added.
A third said: “Brooks with a close line from hell tribute on Cucurella.”
“Utter disgrace from the ref there to not send David Brooks off.. Watches him throw a punch 15 times and gives a yellow. VAR can’t even award yellows,” a fourth added.
The Premier League Match Centre swiftly offered an explanation for the decision on social media.
“VAR recommended an on-field review for a possible red card to Brooks for violent conduct,” they said.
“Upon review, the referee deemed that the challenge on Cucurella was a reckless action and not violent conduct – and issued a yellow card to Brooks.”
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Cucurella protested the referee’s decisionCredit: GettyThe incident may well have reminded Chelsea fans of a previous off-the-ball challenge on Cucurella in their 5-1 win at Southampton.
Saints captain Jack Stephens pulled the Spaniard’s hair and was shown a red card after a VAR check.
It was different outcome this time round though despite the nature of Brooks’ challenge.
Chelsea took the lead through Cole Palmer on 13 minutes but their visitors turned the match around midway through the second half.
Antoine Semenyo fired in a powerful shot to put his side in front not long after the controversy surrounding Brooks.
However, Chelsea made it 2-2 in stoppage-time thanks to a free-kick from substitute Reece James.
