Following a reckless challenge by Frank Onyeka during Sheffield United’s win over Brentford last Saturday, manager Chris Wilder is anxiously hoping that midfielder Vini Souza will be fit for the upcoming weekend clash against Chelsea.
Onyeka’s harsh tackle on the Brazilian resulted in a booking from on-field referee Stuart Attwell. Surprisingly, VAR Rob Jones chose not to upgrade the decision to a red card—a call criticised by former top referee Mike Dean during his commentary for Sky Sports. Wilder is now awaiting Souza’s recovery and assessing his availability for the Chelsea fixture.
“I just don’t get it,” Wilder reflecting on the referees decision in his post-match press conference.
“I didn’t get decisions on Wednesday night and I didn’t get that one. I know they go and slow it down and this, that and the other. It’s a physical game and there’s mistimed tackles in difficult conditions, I get that. But it’s a little bit late and Vin had a bag of ice wrapped around his ankle. Hopefully he’ll be okay.”
Sheffield United will be hoping Souza can recover in time to face Chelsea; since the arrival of Wilder, the Brazilian has been excellent in his defensive midfield position alongside Gustavo Hamer.
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