A lunging challenge from Ola Aina sparked red card debate, but a former Premier League referee says the officials on the day got the call right.
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Former Premier League referee Mike Dean has backed the decision to award Super Eagles defender Ola Aina only a yellow card for his challenge on James Justin during Nottingham Forest’s Premier League opener against Leeds United.
Aina’s lunging tackle initially sparked debate over whether it warranted a penalty and a red card, but the on-field referee opted for a yellow card, a decision VAR chose not to overturn.
“I Don’t Think It’s A Sending Off”
Speaking on Sky Sports News, Dean explained his view on the challenge, saying Aina got in low, missed the ball completely, and only caught his opponent with his back leg, adding that he did not consider it a sending off offence.
A Reliable Presence For Forest
Aina has established himself as a key, consistent performer for Nottingham Forest, operating as a reliable wing back. He featured heavily in the Leeds fixture before being substituted in the 74th minute. Last season, he made 18 Premier League appearances and eight UEFA Europa League appearances as Forest reached the tournament’s semi finals.
📌 Did You Know?
- Aina is known for his versatility across the Forest backline, capable of playing at right back, left-back or wing back depending on tactical need.
- He has represented Nigeria at senior international level and remains a regular in the Super Eagles’ defensive plans.
- Mike Dean retired from on-field Premier League officiating in 2022 after a lengthy career as one of English football’s most recognisable referees.
- Aina is also known for the occasional spectacular long-range strike, adding an attacking dimension to his defensive game.
- Nottingham Forest’s run to the Europa League semi finals last season was one of the club’s best European campaigns in decades.
