Paul Dickov believes that Mateo Kovacic was extremely lucky to have not been sent off in the defeat against Arsenal today.
Kovacic was the talk of social media at half-time, following a couple of tackles he made on Arsenal players in the first-half.
The Croatia international made a late challenge on Martin Odegaard for which he was booked by referee Michael Oliver.
The tackle was checked by VAR, and the on-field decision was upheld.
Kovacic, perhaps fortunate to still be on the field, then made another challenge on Declan Rice.
This one was late again, but no card was brandished.
And at half-time, Dickov said what most probably think…
Paul Dickov says Mateo Kovacic was so lucky not to be sent off vs Arsenal
Speaking on City’s Matchday Live show, Dickov couldn’t quite believe that Kovacic did not receive his marching orders.
The former City striker said: “I think he’s, if we’re being completely honest and unbiased, a very lucky man to stay on the pitch. He’s been booked for tackle I don’t think he really had to make – the first one – for as bad as it was.
“I didn’t think it was a straight red, but you’ve seen them given.
“And the five minutes later to go and do a similar challenge, I think he’s very lucky. For someone who has experience as well. He’s give the referee the opportunity to send him off there. Fortunately he didn’t.”
Kovacic was very lucky
There is no doubt about it – Kovacic should have been off.
Probably for the first one, and most definitely for the challenge on Rice.
Ultimately though, despite keeping 11 players in the field, City just weren’t good enough.
