The manager of Nottingham Forest, Nuno Espirito Santo, expressed his belief that James Maddison should have been shown a red card for allegedly punching Ryan Yates in the stomach during Sunday’s 3-1 loss against Tottenham.
The incident occurred just before halftime with the score tied at 1-1.
Referee Simon Hooper had a discussion with both Maddison and Yates but chose not to issue any cards, and the video assistant referee (VAR) did not intervene.
“It’s a red card,” Nuno told BBC Match of the Day.
“I was surprised VAR didn’t [send Maddison off]. Maddison lost composure and punched Yates in the stomach.
“What they saw clearly is not the same as we saw. I wouldn’t speak if I wasn’t 100% sure.”
Forest midfielder Yates added to Sky Sports: “James Maddison is a good player, I know he makes them tick. It’s my job to disrupt the momentum.
“A few decisions probably didn’t go our way but we’ve seen the inconsistency in the Premier League this season.”
The win propelled Tottenham into fourth place, surpassing Aston Villa on goal difference with one game in hand.
Nottingham Forest maintained their 17th position in the league standings, narrowly avoiding the relegation zone due to their superior goal difference compared to Luton.