By Daily Sports on March 7, 2016

Louis van Gaal admits Juan Mata ‘damaged’ Manchester United’s chances of victory in Sunday’s defeat to West Brom before suggesting that the referee should have taken into account the midfielder’s character.

The Spaniard was sent off after just 26 minutes at The Hawthorns for two yellow cards – one for preventing a quick free-kick, and the second for a challenge on Darren Fletcher.

It was the first red card of Mata’s professional career, but Van Gaal was keen to stress that the midfielder has never intentionally hurt an opponent.

“The first yellow card I think was stupid because you know in advance it’s a yellow card, but the second, you know you already have one yellow card, you have to take into account with the second, it’s difficult. You damage the benefit of the team,” Van Gaal told Sky Sports.

“But the referee also has to know the person who makes the tackle. And Juan Mata has never hurt an opponent.

“I ask him also, how many red cards have you had? None, it’s the first.”

When asked if taking Mata’s personality into account is relevant, Van Gaal replied: “No, it’s not relevant, but you have to know the characters of the players, I think.

“And that’s why an experienced referee is always better. And I always think you take that into account.” (Goal.com)

•Photo shows Juan Mata.

Source Daily Sports

Posted March 7, 2016

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