Former Premier League referee Mark Clattenburg has weighed in on the controversial red card shown to Sunderland defender Reinildo during Sunday’s Premier League fixture against Aston Villa, suggesting that while the dismissal was justified, a key detail was overlooked by the officials.
🟥 Reinildo Sent Off After VAR Intervention
The incident occurred in the 34th minute at the Stadium of Light when Reinildo, after being caught late by Aston Villa’s Matty Cash, lashed out with a kick while on the ground. Referee Sam Barrott initially missed the altercation, but after a VAR review, he was advised to check the pitchside monitor. Upon review, Barrott issued a straight red card to the Mozambique international for violent conduct.
🗣️ Clattenburg: “Correct Call, But Cash Should Have Been Cautioned”
Speaking exclusively about the incident, Clattenburg supported the decision to send Reinildo off but argued that Matty Cash should not have escaped punishment entirely.
“Matty Cash has caught Reinildo after he has played the ball, which should have resulted in Cash being cautioned,” Clattenburg explained. “While Reinildo is on the floor, he makes a small kick out into the body of Cash with his studs, which is an act of violent conduct.”
Clattenburg emphasized that the severity of the kick is irrelevant under the laws of the game:
“Some will say that the kick out was only light, but there is nothing in the laws of the game about how hard the contact was made; it’s the act of kicking out that is punishable.”
While acknowledging that Cash’s actions were not as serious, Clattenburg maintained that a yellow card would have been appropriate.
⛔ Reinildo to Miss Three Matches
As a result of the red card for violent conduct, Reinildo will serve a three-match suspension. He is now ruled out of Sunderland’s upcoming Premier League fixtures against:
- Nottingham Forest
- Manchester United
- Wolves
The absence of the left-back will be a blow to head coach Régis Le Bris, who has already been managing a growing injury list. Reinildo’s defensive presence has been key to Sunderland’s strong start to the season, and his suspension will test the depth of the squad.
🔍 A Lesson in Discipline
The incident serves as a reminder of the fine margins in top-flight football and the importance of composure under pressure. While VAR ensured the correct punishment for violent conduct, Clattenburg’s analysis highlights the need for consistency in officiating — especially when multiple players are involved in flashpoints.
As Sunderland prepare for a challenging run of fixtures, they’ll be hoping to maintain their defensive solidity in Reinildo’s absence — and avoid further disciplinary setbacks.