Dermot Gallagher has weighed in on Devante Cole’s tackle during Motherwell’s match with Celtic at the weekend.
Celtic ran out 4-1 winners on Sunday afternoon, the scoreline not providing a full reflection of the game as Stephen Robinson’s side put up a good fight. But a Mohamed Elyounoussi hat-trick and Oliver Ntcham strike sealed a Celtic win.
Celtic were victorious on Sunday (Photo by Mark Runnacles/Getty Images)
One of the key discussion points after the match was Cole’s tackle on Jeremie Frimpong. The Well striker caught the right-back in the knee with his studs but was only shown a yellow by ref Andrew Dallas.
Frimpong was eventually subbed, Celtic boss Neil Lennon concerned after the match with fears he could have suffered knee ligament damage.
Well manager Robinson wasn’t so sure it was a red, saying after the match ‘there’s no malice at all’ in the tackle. But former Premier League referee Gallagher has explained why both sides are fortunate in this incident.
Gallagher reckons both got away with one. (Photo by Christopher Lee/Getty Images)
“I think Cole is lucky he didn’t get a red card because the point of contact is really, really bad,” said Gallagher (Sky Sports).
“And I think Frimpong is lucky he didn’t suffer a serious injury.
“If his leg is planted, that’s a very dangerous tackle. I just think the referee has read it wrong.”