Callum McManaman tackle lambasted by fans and Newcastle players on Twitter

Callum McManaman tackle or the knee challenge, which might leave Massadio Haidara with ligament damage, has incurred the wrath of football fans, as they took to social media to vent their anger. The incident instigated many unruly scenes at the stadium as Newcastle assistant manager, John Carver confronted McManaman at half-time causing an ugly brawl, which resulted in him being sent-off to the stands.

Newcastle manager, Alan Pardew was also furious as he spoke to the media after the match. Fans reacted on Twitter as they stated that the McManaman tackle was a career ending move for Haidara and a completely uncalled action from the Wigan forward. Despite Massadio Haidara being carried out, the referee did not award a free kick to the Magpies or send off McManaman.

Newcastle defender, Ryan Taylor, also lambasted the referee as he tweeted, “Wow. Not even a yellow #baffled. Nothing to do with the scoreline an the fact it was a red but as a footballer it’s the definition of a ‘shithouse tackle. I hope Sadio is okay.” A fan wrote on Twitter, “That’s a career ending challenge he’s came out lucky, disgrace that McManaman wasn’t given a red!”

Wigan manager, Roberto Martinez insisted the challenge was not malicious and the referee was in the perfect position to watch the ball. Martinez said, “I believe he gets the ball and then it’s a bad challenge. The referee was in a perfect position, he is looking at the incident. When you get the ball it is very difficult for a panel to punish that.”

As far as disciplinary action against McManaman is considered, it will depend on the referee’s report as contradicting statements from both the teams emerged about the referee witnessing the incident. What are your views on the McManaman tackle?

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