Premier League release statement as star ‘loses rag’ at Cole Palmer but avoids red card

When Wilfred Ndidi of Leicester City made a violent lunge at Chelsea player Cole Palmer, the Premier League explained why he was not sent off.

Chelsea star man Cole Palmer was left writhing in pain after the foul by Leicester City’s Wilfred Ndidi (Image: TNT Sports)

After Wilfred Ndidi made a wild rush at Chelsea player Cole Palmer, VAR decided that the offense “lacked intensity” and did not send him off.

In the opening half of the match between the two teams at the King Power Stadium, the Leicester City midfielder shockingly challenged the England ace, leaving him writhing in pain. In a challenge that many supporters thought would result in Palmer’s dismissal, Ndidi landed his studs on the back of his right ankle, but he was only given a yellow card.

Speaking on TNT Sports at halftime, with Chelsea leading 1-0 after Nicolas Jackson’s first goal, Chelsea legend Joe Cole claimed he believed Ndidi had singled out the Blues attacker and chose to “do him” with a “old fashioned” reducer in the match’s 22nd minute.

“Pay attention to the ball’s location and then Ndidi’s right foot,” he remarked. He attempted to swipe the ball with his left foot after it was there, and then he said, “I’m going to do ya.” He should be sent off because he lost his rag during a game where they were miles away from Leicester and their irritation was at its highest.

“He nearly scores the equaliser, if he plays a part in getting Leicester back into this game I would imagine [Chelsea manager] Enzo Maresca will be furious.” Official Paul Tierney on VAR and referee Andrew Madley, however, obviously felt differently.

According to a statement from the Premier League Match Centre, which TNT Sports host Lynsey Hipgrave then relayed, the card had not been increased to a red because of the little space between Ndidi and Palmer when he lunged in and because the challenge was deemed to have “lacked intensity.” Cole shook his head, mocking the studio’s reasoning.

The decision infuriated Chelsea supporters, one of whom yelled on X: “Palmer has now had two red card incidents this season, which are now yellows. The Premier League’s greatest asset is not being protected. Don’t miss the Cole Palmer celebration for the children of tomorrow. Take the proper action right now, @FA_PGMOL.