Premier League release Chelsea statement as Enzo Maresca handed huge blow

The Premier League have explained why Nicolas Jackson was shown a straight red card during Chelsea vs Newcastle following VAR intervention.

Sandro Tonali scored after just a few minutes at St James' Park in the huge clash for Champions League qualification and things went from bad to worse for Chelsea just before half time.

Following a long ball forward, Jackson led into a challenge against Sven Botman with his elbow and was initially shown a yellow card by David Brooks

However, VAR got involved and the punishment was upgraded from a yellow to a red following a review at the pitchside monitor.

Explaining the decision, the Premier League Match Centre on X wrote: "#NEWCHE – 33’ VAR OVERTURN. VAR checked the referee’s call of yellow card to Jackson – and deemed that the challenge by Jackson on Botman was a serious foul play offence, therefore recommended an on-field review.

"The referee then upgraded the yellow to a red card." While that process was taking place, Ally McCoist offered his verdict on TNT Sports commentary.

"It's one of these, he's has a look," he said. "I'm not sure, I'm going to cut him a little bit of slack, he puts his arm out to protect him, I don't think it's a Fletch.

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"You're not agreeing with me, I can tell.

In response to commentator Darren Fletcher believing it was a red card, he added: "He's looking at him Fletch, he's shoved his forearm up, caught him on the chin.

"What I would say, it's not malice to give him one, I don't think he can have any complaints to tell you the truth

"I think you might be right. I'm still not convinced it's an elbow to the chin but there's absolutely no doubt he has a look and catches him in the face."

Not only will Chelsea not have Jackson for the remainder of the Newcastle game but he will also miss the remainder of the league season which includes huge games against Manchester United and Nottingham Forest.

The Blues may appeal the decision but it is unlikely it is overturned following the involvement of VAR.

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