Manchester United defender Harry Maguire receives an extra one-match ban and a fine for misconduct after his red card, deepening the club’s defensive crisis.
HARRY Maguire will miss Manchester United’s Premier League game away to Chelsea on Saturday after being handed an additional one-match ban for his reaction to being sent off at Bournemouth.
The 33-year-old was shown a straight red card at the Vitality Stadium last month for a foul on Evanilson, with Junior Kroupi scoring from the ensuing penalty as the Cherries secured a 2-2 draw.
Maguire also missed Monday’s 2-1 home defeat by bitter rivals Leeds.
England’s Football Association said fourth official Matthew Donohue submitted a report, saying Maguire insulted the officials as he left the pitch.
Maguire claimed the offensive comments were not targeted at anyone.
But the FA Wednesday said Maguire had been hit with the extended ban and a £30,000 ($41,000) fine.
“It was alleged that Harry Maguire acted in an improper manner and/or used abusive and/or insulting words and/or behaviour towards the fourth official following his dismissal. The defender subsequently admitted the charge,” a statement read.
Maguire’s absence adds to United’s defensive woes, with fellow centre-backs Matthijs de Ligt and Lisandro Martinez also sidelined.
Dutchman De Ligt has not featured since November due to a back problem, while Argentina international Martinez begins a three-match ban this weekend after his sending off against Leeds.
The 28-year-old saw red for pulling Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s hair after a VAR review.
United caretaker boss Michael Carrick was angered by a decision he called “one of the worst I’ve seen” and the club are understood to have appealed against the suspension.
Teenager Ayden Heaven could line up alongside 20-year-old Leny Yoro at the back against Chelsea.
United are third in the Premier League, seven points ahead of sixth-placed Chelsea.
