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| The Break (Click to enlarge) |
The incident occurred in the third minute of Sunday's game between Manchester City and Newcastle. At first, the tackle seemed fair - and was deemed fair by the referee. There was no free-kick and no yellow card for the tackle - the game just carried on. But as Ben Arfa stayed down, screaming in agony and desperately trying to hold his leg together, the referee had to stop the game, and as the replays were shown, it became clear that the tackle was very hard, and very needless.
De Jong is building - or has built, a reputation for being a little too hefty in the challenge. The World Cup, for example. The outrageous fly-kick which he performed on Xabi Alonso in the final was not the only dangerous, and silly challenge in which he showcased his immense talent of hurting people (and getting away with it). Bert Van Marwijk has acknowledged this, and has decided, that if the referees aren't going to punish the Dutchman - he will.
"I've seen the pictures back. It was a wild and unnecessary offence. He went in much too hard. It is unfortunate, especially since he does not need to do it.
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| Ben Arfa receives Oxygen |
The funny thing is that the referee did not even show a yellow card for it. Apparently, there are other standards. But I have a problem with the way Nigel needlessly looks to push the limit. I am going to speak to him"
Ben Arfa meanwhile, will take roughly about six months to recover from a broken tibia and fibula. The young man hopes to be back, playing for Newcastle soon, as he is enjoying life in England so much. He is only on a years long loan from Marseille, but after his wonderful debut goal, and lively performances so far, Newcastle may reward him with a permanent contract - if Marseille agree.
