Bruno Fernandes could play for Man Utd vs Aston Villa after Tottenham red card amid appeal
Manchester United have been told that they have a high chance of a successful appeal against Bruno Fernandes' red card in the clash with Tottenham. The 30-year-old was given his marching orders for the first time in his United career on Sunday, following a high challenge on Spurs' James Maddison.
Despite not making contact with his studs, referee Chris Kavanagh sent Fernandes off, with VAR agreeing it was 'serious foul play'. The Premier League later backed the decision, stating that "VAR checked and confirmed the referee's call of serious foul play".
The dismissal left United with an uphill battle as they were already trailing by one goal at Old Trafford, eventually succumbing to a 3-0 defeat to Spurs - another blow for beleaguered boss Erik ten Hag. However, Fernandes could be back in action for this Sunday's game against Aston Villa, with the club expected to appeal and they have a good chance of success.
ESPN suggests that while the outcome may depend on the three former players chosen for the disciplinary commission, United should be optimistic that Fernandes' challenge didn't warrant serious foul play. The high threshold for VAR intervention is likely why Kavanagh was not directed to the pitch-side monitor.
The Red Devils were previously on the fortunate side of a decision when Southampton's Jack Stephens was handed a red card for a dangerous challenge on Alejandro Garnacho last month. Stephens, who led with his studs and connected high on Garnacho, received a three-match suspension for the offence.
Conversely Fernandes, who appeared to slip, pulled back his studs from a challenge on Tottenham's Maddison and made contact with just his heel. Manager Erik ten Hag is eager for Fernandes to be on the pitch for the upcoming Villa game amidst growing pressure.