NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND - JUNE 28: Tv pundits Alan Shearer and Gary Lineker are seen in the tv studio in the stands during the FA Cup Quarter Final match between Newcastle United and Manchester City at St. James Park on June 28, 2020 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by Owen Humphreys/Pool via Getty Images)
The Match of the Day pundits were split over Wilfred Ndidi’s challenge in Leicester City’s 2-1 defeat to Chelsea, a result that extended their winless streak to five matches. The Foxes’ performance was plagued by defensive lapses, including a poor clearance from Wout Faes that led to Chelsea’s opening goal, and a struggle from Caleb Okoli to defend against Nicolas Jackson, which contributed to Enzo Fernandez’s strike. In addition, Harry Winks sustained an injury, further depleting Leicester’s already fragile squad.
However, a major talking point post-match was Ndidi’s controversial challenge on Cole Palmer, which led to a yellow card from the referee. The tackle, which made contact with Palmer’s leg from behind, sparked debate. Ashley Williams believed the challenge appeared worse in slow motion and speculated it could have been a red card, while Alan Shearer was adamant it should have been a red, arguing that Ndidi’s intent was to hurt the Chelsea player. Gary Lineker took a more balanced view, suggesting it was a borderline decision that could have gone either way.
In the end, Leicester were fortunate the referee opted for a yellow card. Had Ndidi been sent off, it would have left the Foxes short in midfield, especially with Winks already out injured. Such a decision could have further jeopardized manager Steve Cooper’s position, given the team’s ongoing struggles and the difficult fixtures ahead.
