Watford FC of England is set to appeal against the red card shown to its left back, Jose Holebas, in their 1-4 Premier League defeat by West Ham United.
The club’s manager, Javi Gracia, hoped the player would be allowed to face Manchester City in Saturday’s FA Cup final.
The player was sent off at the start of the second half of Sunday’s game for a foul on Michail Antonio that denied West Ham a clear goal scoring opportunity.
“As a result, the left back is set to miss the FA cup final. We will appeal the red card,” Gracia told reporters.
“It made it impossible for us and for the player to miss the FA Cup final based on that contact.
“I prefer to be respectful to the referee’s decision and I prefer at this moment, not to say what I’m thinking about that.
“In my opinion, I can’t believe he should miss the final for that contact. I can’t believe it.
“Maybe it’s a foul, soft foul, light foul but I can be angry with that decision. At this moment it’s difficult to accept knowing you have an important game next week.”
The 34-year-old Holebas had been an integral part of Gracia’s side this season, making 28 league appearances and three in the FA Cup.
A Watford victory in Saturday’s final would secure a place in next season’s Europa League for Gracia’s side.
Reuters/NAN.
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