PGMOL explain Moises Caicedo red card decision

The PGMOL issued a statement detailing Moises Caicedo’s red card for Chelsea against Arsenal, confirming his three-match suspension for serious foul play, affecting his domestic availability.

According to a report from Sports Mole, the PGMOL (Professional Game Match Officials Limited) released a statement explaining the red card shown to Chelsea’s Moises Caicedo during the Premier League London derby with Arsenal at Stamford Bridge.

The Ecuador international was expelled in the 34th minute for a “crunching challenge” on Mikel Merino. Referee Anthony Taylor initially issued a yellow card, but after being sent to the pitchside monitor following a VAR review, he overturned his original decision.

Replays clearly showed Caicedo going into the tackle with an outstretched leg and raised studs, which connected with Merino’s ankle.

The official’s announcement confirmed the reason for the dismissal, with the Premier League Match Centre posting the following:

“After VAR review, the referee overturned the original decision of yellow card to Caicedo and issued a red card for serious foul play.”

The referee’s statement to the crowd clarified the action: “Referee announcement: ‘After review, Chelsea 25, makes a challenge with excessive force and endangers the safety of the opponent, therefore my final decision is red card’.”

As a sending-off for serious foul play incurs a three-game suspension, Caicedo will miss Chelsea’s next three domestic matches: the midweek clash with Leeds United at Elland Road, and the subsequent battles with Bournemouth (December 6) and Everton (December 13).

The South American will be eligible to play in the Champions League against Atalanta BC on December 9 and is set to return to domestic action against Cardiff City in the FA Cup on December 16.

However, his return to the Premier League will not be until the trip to Newcastle United on December 20