Jamie Redknapp expressed his frustration over the rule that led to Nick Pope’s suspension for the Carabao Cup final. Pope was given a straight red card in Newcastle’s Premier League game against Liverpool for handling the ball outside the area in an attempt to prevent Mohamed Salah from scoring. As a result, he will miss Newcastle’s upcoming match, which is the Carabao Cup final against Manchester United.
During the match coverage on Sky Sports, Redknapp criticized Newcastle’s poor defending that allowed Salah to get behind their back four, leading to Pope’s sending off. Redknapp believed that the rule was unfair and called for a change. He expressed sympathy for Newcastle and Nick Pope and argued that the rule should only apply if the player deliberately handled the ball outside the box.
Redknapp Had This to say
“Newcastle has consistently employed a high-pressing, intense strategy from the start, which leaves spaces behind their defensive line, while Liverpool has consistently attempted to exploit these spaces by making runs behind the Newcastle defense. the rule to send Nick Off is Terrible”
“Newcastle’s defensive strategy did not involve covering the space, instead opting for one-on-one play even when they were trailing 2-0. In such situations, it’s essential to have an extra player to provide cover and support, especially when dealing with speedy players like Salah”.
Newcastle Play Manchester United at Wembley in the Carabao Cup Final next weekend 26th February 2023. And with Second Choice goal Keeper, Martin Dubravka Being Cup Tied having featured in this competition for Man United, Loris Karius is now expected to start next Sunday.