Brief

pundits call for red card after Gudmundsson's challenge on Santos

Match of the Day analysts and a former referee argue the Swedish defender escaped a red card for a studs‑on‑Achilles challenge.

By Felo News Desk · Published Mon, 19 Oct 2026 17:00:24 GMT

During Leeds United’s 1‑1 draw with Manchester United, Gabriel Gudmundsson received a yellow card for a studs‑on‑leg challenge on United midfielder Andrey Santos. After the match, several pundits argued the tackle warranted a red card.

What the reports add

Shay Given, speaking on Match of the Day, described the challenge as "a poor challenge" and said it should have been a red card. Fellow pundit Dion Dublin agreed, calling the incident "horrible" and insisting both players involved deserved reds. Former Premier League match official Darren Cann told BBC Sport that the tackle was "very risky" and could have earned a dismissal, noting the reduced intensity may have saved Gudmundsson.

Key facts

• Gabriel Gudmundsson was booked with a yellow for a studs‑on‑leg challenge on Andrey Santos. (standard.co.uk)
• Shay Given said the challenge should have been a red card. (standard.co.uk)
• Dion Dublin also argued both players deserved red cards. (standard.co.uk)
• Former referee Darren Cann told BBC Sport the tackle was risky and could have merited a red. (standard.co.uk)

Sources

• [1] standard.co.uk — originally reported as “Man Utd get new red card review after controversial Leeds decision”