‘Ridiculous’ footage questioned as Dermot Gallagher reacts to Reinildo madness at Sunderland
Sunderland fought back to claim a hard-earned point during their 1-1 draw with Aston Villa on Sunday, despite playing mainly with 10 men.
Reinildo’s first-half red card was the main talking point of the match, as Wilson Isidor and Matty Cash exchanged goals late in the game.
Reinildo madly kicked out at Cash in the 36th minute following a late challenge made on him by the Polish defender.
Former Premier League referee Dermot Gallagher and Jay Bothroyd discussed whether it was the right decision and questioned why Reinildo would even think to put Sunderland in this situation.
Reinildo let the team down with red card vs Aston Villa
The red card means that Reinildo will miss the next three matches, due to violent conduct, including a huge showdown against winless Wolves.
- 27 September: Nottingham Forest (A)
- 4 October: Man United (A)
- 18 October: Wolves (H)
Speaking on the Sky Sports Ref Watch programme on 22 September, Gallagher questioned why Reinildo kicked out at Cash.
He said: “The referee [Sam Barrott] has done really good to keep his eye on the incident, he has not followed the ball and because he has not, he has picked it up – but why would a player do this?”
Bothroyd added: “It is ridiculous, you can see the frustration. Cash might have gone in slightly late, but it does not warrant that reaction, and as soon as he has kicked up with his legs, he and everyone knows he is getting a red card.
“He let himself and the team down, and it is poor from the player.”
Reinildo joined Sunderland from Atletico Madrid on a free transfer, and the Mozambique international had been impressive up until Sunday’s clash at the Stadium of Light.
Now, Regis Le Bris must reshuffle his defence in the next three games as Sunderland look to deal with Renildo’s suspension.
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Nordi Mukiele must deputise at left-back following Reinildo suspension
Mukiele was excellent against Villa, providing a constant threat down Sunderland’s left-hand side.
In a position that is unfamiliar to the right-footed defender, he alleviated pressure when Sunderland had their backs against the wall, driving the ball forward and linking up well with Noah Sadiki.
Whilst Arthur Masuaku could feature, Mukiele’s positioning at left-back would then allow for Dan Ballard to return to the team at the heart of the defence.
He has been a rock at the back since he arrived from Paris Saint-Germain, and his versatility in defence is a huge bonus for Le Bris.
As Sunderland look to build on their last two draws, Mukiele could be key for the Black Cats’ success over the next three matches.
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