Wigan Chairman Defends McManaman Horror Tackle

• ESPN FC, Monday, March 18, 2013 12:51 PM

Wigan Chairman Dave Whelan offered support for Callum McManaman following his controversial tackle on Newcastle’s Massidio Haidara during Wigan’s 2-1 win on Sunday. Meanwhile, the English FA said it would consider whether to take action against McManaman after it receives the official report from referee Mark Halsey, who admits he did not see the challenge.

After reviewing the incident, Whelan said: “If you play football and the ball bounces you are entitled to go and win it, kick it and get the ball, so long as you get the ball and the challenge isn't too high. [McManaman's boot] was 14 inches from off the ground and that is what McManaman has done, he has gone for the ball and he has got the ball. The referee was 10 yards away, he saw him get the ball and didn't even give a free kick, there is a lot to be said for that." He added: “It was a complete accident and I hope the lad from Newcastle recovers quickly and gets back to playing."

After the game, Newcastle coach Alan Pardew said, "I think the cameras saw all the incidents. It speaks for itself, really. I do not want to say anything more as I will only get myself in trouble," he told the Evening Chronicle. "It looks like Haidara has done his knee ligaments. He has terrible bruising. It is not a nice feeling having one of your players going to a hospital for a tackle which has gone unpunished. I will just say it has been a day which will live long in the memory for all the wrong reasons."

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