Premier League explanation as Arsenal star Kai Havertz avoids red card for 'vicious' tackle

Kai Havertz was not sent off in Arsenal's match against Burnley despite Gary Neville's view that the Germany forward deserved a red card

Gary Neville believes Arsenal forward Kai Havertz was ‘lucky’ to escape a red card for a challenge on Burnley midfielder Lesley Ugochukwu. Havertz went in strongly on Ugochukwu in the 67th minute as Burnley looked to take the ball forwards against the Gunners from the edge of their box.

Havertz ’s studs appeared to go down Ugochukwu’s calf from behind and the 22-year-old appeared to gesture that he thought the challenge was strong.

Referee Paul Tierney quickly showed Havertz a yellow card but Neville, on co-commentary duty for Sky Sports, thought the correct decision would be to send the Germany international off.

He said: “I don't like that. I don't like it at all. It's a horrible one, it's vicious from Havertz.

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“I think this is a red. There's no way you're getting the ball, you can only hurt the player there.”

The VAR James Bell reviewed the incident but stuck with Tierney’s on-field decision to caution Havertz. Neville responded: “I don't think it's right - he's a lucky boy. I'd get him off the pitch straight away.”

Indeed, Mikel Arteta did take the goalscorer Havertz off, with Viktor Gyokeres brought on not long after.

The Premier League's Match Centre account issued an explanation on the decision, posting on X: "The referee’s call of yellow card to Havertz was checked and confirmed by VAR – with the challenge deemed not to be serious foul play."

Arsenal are now just one win away from a first Premier League title in 22 years after beating Burnley 1-0. The Gunners travel to Crystal Palace on the final day, but may not need that victory if second-placed Manchester City fail to win at Bournemouth on Tuesday night (7:30pm BST).

And Arteta has called on the club's fans to play their part with a Champions League final against Paris Saint-Germain also to come.

Speaking after Monday's win over the Clarets, he said: "It's an absolute joy to witness the transformation and contribution each of you has had to turn this place into the most beautiful place to enjoy a football club.

"This is the soul of this football club. Each of you contribute to that. Make sure every time you step in this stadium, you face the responsibility to keep it at these standards. It makes all the difference.

"I will see you soon in Selhurst Park and then Budapest as well. Please be the protagonists to these amazing group of players and staff."

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