Callum McManaman Escapes Ban For Horror Tackle

Callum McManaman escaped punishment from the Football Association for his shocking tackle on Newcastle defender Massadio Haidara during Wigan’s controversial 2-1 Premier League victory at the DW Stadium on Sunday.

Haidara was stretchered off the field with what looked to be a serious knee injury in the first half after McManaman caught the Frenchman on the knee with a reckless challenge that enraged Newcastle’s players and coaches.

Referee Mark Halsey did not give the Wigan youngster a red card, as he did not see the incident in question and Newcastle assistant coach John Carver had to be repeatedly restrained from trying to get to the 21 year old at half-time.

A lengthy punishment was expected by many but a retrospective ban was ruled out by the FA because one of the linesman had spotted the tackle.

English football’s governing body released a statement on Tuesday which read:

“Where one of the officials has seen a coming together of players, no retrospective action should be taken, regardless of whether he or she witnessed the full or particular nature of the challenge. This is to avoid re-refereeing of incidents. In the case of McManaman, it has been confirmed that at least one of the match officials saw the coming together though not the full extent of the challenge. In these circumstances retrospective action cannot be taken.”

The extent of Haidara’s injury will not be determined until next week when the swelling in his knee has subsided. Newcastle managing director Derek Lambias was furious with the FA’s decision and expressed his dismay with the ruling.

“While we understand that the current procedures give the FA limited options, it cannot be correct that the most serious offences can go unpunished even if the original incident was seen by match officials,” he said.

Wigan went on to score in the final minute of the game after McManaman escaped a red card to further infuriate Newcastle.