Joe Cole described a tackle by Wilfred Ndidi as “terrible” and suggested it contributed to a difficult season at Chelsea.
In the first half of the Premier League match at King Power Stadium, Ndidi caught a Chelsea player’s Achilles with his studs 22 minutes into the game.
Referee Andy Madley issued a yellow card after the challenge, and VAR reviewed the incident but upheld the decision, determining that the tackle lacked sufficient force due to Ndidi’s short run-up.
During halftime on TNT Sports, former Chelsea midfielder Joe Cole argued that Ndidi was fortunate not to be sent off, calling the tackle reckless and dangerous enough to warrant VAR intervention.
Peter Crouch shared the same view, emphasizing the potential for serious injury, such as an Achilles rupture, and criticizing VAR for not taking further action. Cole pointed out the immediate reaction of Chelsea players, who confronted the referee, underlining the dangerous nature of the challenge.
He claimed Ndidi had lost his composure in a frustrating match for Leicester and that the tackle should have been a red card.
Cole also questioned the assessment that the tackle lacked intensity, noting that Ndidi’s size and movement made the challenge potentially harmful.
Crouch added that players are often sent off for less dangerous offenses, pointing out the inconsistency in officiating. Darren Bent also expressed disbelief on talkSPORT, saying Ndidi should have been shown a red card, as the tackle appeared intentional and put the opponent at risk.
In the match, Chelsea won 2-1, with Nicolas Jackson scoring the opener and Enzo Fernández adding a second. Although Leicester pulled one back late, Chelsea held on for the victory in a hard-fought match.
