Dermot Gallagher Verdict on Double Red Card Claims

Nottingham Forest's Ola Aina and Dominic Calvert-Lewin of Leeds United both received yellow cards for late challenges, but was the decision correct?

What happened?

Players from Leeds United and Nottingham Forest were both booked for late challenges during Saturday's 1-0 win at the City Ground. Leeds United striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin was 'saved' from a red card by not making clear contact with James McAtee during a first-half clash. Calvert-Lewin was shown a yellow card after 32 minutes following a coming together with McAtee. The Leeds frontman's leading foot was at shin-height and extended but no contact was made.

Why it matters for Nottingham Forest

Referee Rob Jones brandished a yellow card and despite Forest protests, was not recommended to review the challenge. His former colleague Dermot Gallagher reviewed the incident on Sky Sports' Ref Watch. "Just as well he didn't get him," Gallagher said. "That's what saved him. I think because the referee didn't send him off… but without a doubt if he'd have caught him, he's going to get a red card. He actually misses him with the straight leg."

What comes next?

Former striker Jay Bothroyd admitted he's never seen Calvert-Lewin as the kind of player to leave something on an opponent. But he did add that serious contact could have ended very badly: "That's a leg-breaker. If he hits him on the shin, that's a serious injury because Dominic's leg is straight as well."

The Verdict

Gallagher also reviewed the challenge made by Ola Aina, who was booked for a lunging challenge on James Justin. "I think right [decision]," Gallagher said. "I think he's low. I think he doesn't actually catch him with the studs, he catches him with the shin. It's not a clever tackle, but it's not serious foul play."

League Standing

Nottingham Forest currently sit 16th in the Premier League, with 44 points from 38 games, and are 41 points behind leaders Arsenal. They have scored 48 goals and conceded 51 this season, with a recent form of DLDWW.

Current Injuries

The club is currently without Nicolò Savona and Ryan Yates due to injury.

What's Next?

Ahead of a run of games, you can check on our fixtures page to see the latest schedule for Nottingham Forest.