Illan Meslier: Agbonlahor lambasts senior figure in new analysis of Leeds controversy
Gabby Agbonlahor has admitted he “can’t keep up with football” after Raul Jimenez’s red card in Wolves’ 3-2 loss to Leeds United on Friday night (18 March).
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the ex-Aston Villa and England forward slammed Kevin Friend who “couldn’t wait” to show Jimenez a second yellow.
The 30-year-old was given his marching orders after a late challenge on Illan Meslier just outside of the Leeds penalty box.
Wolves were winning 2-0 at the time and the decision sparked a Leeds comeback that was finished off by Luke Ayling in injury time.
Because it was a second yellow, VAR could not intervene and Wolves could not launch an appeal to the FA.
Jimenez will now serve a one-game ban and sit out his side’s game with Aston Villa after the international break (2 April).
“10 years ago, it’s not even a first yellow card in the first 20 minutes of the game,” Agbonlahor said after analysing the footage with Football Insider correspondent Connor Whitley.
“It’s two players that have mistimed a challenge. It doesn’t make sense to me. I feel Kevin Friend could not wait to get his card out. I saw him, Jimenez was still on the floor getting treatment and he couldn’t wait for a bit of action.
“For me, it was very strange. Jimenez was late but I thought the keeper was late.
“It was never a yellow, they’ve both mistimed the challenge, these things happen now and then.
“Wolves were very unlucky with that and it changed the game. Playing with 10 men, it’s tough. They don’t have a Traore who can stretch an opposition when you’re down to 10 men.
“Jimenez must be baffled when he saw the red card. I can’t keep up with football, I don’t know what it going on.”
In other news, Kieran Maguire has issued a triple-your-money Andrea Radrizzani claim after a £100m Leeds United reveal.