Jamie Redknapp has called for ‘common sense’ in football after controversy struck in Bournemouth’s 1-1 draw with Manchester United on Sunday.
The Cherries looked as though they’d win the match when Antoine Semenyo struck in the 23rd minute.
But United were able to secure a precious leveller through Rasmus Hojlund, with the Denmark international bagging in stoppage time.
Prior to Hojlund’s goal, Bournemouth saw Evanilson dismissed – with the Brazil international receiving his marching orders after tackling Noussair Mazraoui.
Jamie Redknapp has called for ‘common sense’ in football after controversy struck in Bournemouth’s 1-1 draw with Manchester United on Sunday
PA
Though he appeared to slip as he caught his opponent, that didn’t stop VAR from intervening – with Evanilson’s yellow card subsequently upgraded to a red.
Fans on social media were left shocked by the decision to send off the former Porto star.
And Redknapp, speaking on Sky Sports, has now called for ‘common sense’ to be used in football.
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“It just needed a little bit of common sense,” he said. “You can see he slips. It’s a poor decision by the referee and the VAR, it’s not a malicious tackle.
“It doesn’t look great when you slow it up, but he slips and there’s no intent to hurt or harm him.
“It’s a really poor decision, and it had a big impact on the game.”
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– VAR checking for serious foul play.
– RED CARD EVANILSON. pic.twitter.com/OFbYTkC9vv
— VAR Hub (@VARHub) April 27, 2025
The result represents a big setback for Bournemouth and their ambitions of playing in Europe next season.
They appeared composed throughout the contest prior to Evanilson’s dismissal, with United then dominating the closing stages of the contest.
It didn’t look as though it would be their day, with Bruno Fernandes and Alejandro Garnacho both squandering big opportunities to score.
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Yet Hojlund’s late goal has spared them from another defeat – while it’ll also give the youngster confidence ahead of Thursday night’s Europa League clash with Athletic Bilbao.
Daniel Sturridge, also speaking on Sky, hailed the United striker and his attitude.
“You can see he’s got the capability. His movement is very good in the box,” he said.
Rasmus Hojlund celebrates his goal in Manchester United’s draw with Bournemouth on Sunday
PA
“He’s positioned himself perfectly, stays just onside and gets the right connection on the ball.”
The result means Bournemouth are currently 10th in the Premier League table, a point behind rivals Fulham and Brighton.
As for United, the fallen giants are 14th in the standings with four matches left to play.
