Southampton midfielder Flynn Downes may have been lucky to avoid suspension for the weekend's Premier League match against Newcastle United, with his challenge described as 'not wise' by former referee Dermot Gallagher.

Downes was shown a yellow card by referee Anthony Taylor for his challenge on Nottingham Forest star Morgan Gibbs-White, where he appeared to lead with his arm. Despite VAR being in place, it was not deemed a 'clear and obvious' error.

Had Downes have been shown a red card, then he would have been forced to sit out Saturday's meeting against Newcastle at St Mary's. Downes was a key player in Southampton's promotion to the Premier League last season, and has continued to play regularly for the Saints in the Premier League.

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Losing him for a game would have been a blow for Southampton as they fight to climb off the bottom of the Premier League. The decision not to award a red means he will be available as normal for the weekend's clash against Eddie Howe's high-flying side.

Giving his verdict on the decision on Sky Sports' Ref Watch, Gallagher hinted that the midfielder was lucky to stay on the pitch and avoid the suspension, although he understands why the decision wasn't given. "Because he's very close, he doesn't get the speed and intensity," the former top-flight official said. "It's not a wise challenge and he certainly doesn't get the ball. He gets him with his forearm. It's probably not a red because he's so close."

Howe's plan will now involve facing a Saints line-up with Downes included, barring injury. Southampton sit bottom of the Premier League table with six points from their 22 games, the game against Forest saw them fall to a 3-2 loss despite a late fightback.