Wilfred Ndidi's reckless challenge on Cole Palmer has sparked outrage during Chelsea's Premier League encounter with Leicester City.

The incident, which occurred in the 21st minute of Saturday's early kick-off clash, has caused tongues to wag.

Ndidi's rough tackle on Palmer

Ndidi's dangerous lunge on Palmer’s achilles was met with only a yellow card from referee Andrew Madley, leaving fans and pundits questioning the leniency of the decision.

The Leicester star's tackle, which came from behind with little attempt to win the ball, drew sharp criticism.

However, talkSPORT has since reported that officials believed that Ndidi came from a short distance and that the tackle 'lacked intensity' to warrant a straight red card.

The lack of severe punishment angered many, particularly as such actions are often deemed a straight red under modern refereeing standards.

While Palmer managed to shrug off the incident and continue playing, the moment reignited debates about officiating consistency.

Fans outraged with Ndid's tackle Discontent spilt over to X (formerly Twitter), where fans expressed frustration with both the referee and VAR.

Disappointed supporter @DeanCFC_ analysed the challenge: "The more you watch that Ndidi challenge on Palmer, the more you realise he wanted to hurt him. There is no chance of getting the ball with that right foot. VAR need to do better!"

@iamthatNegro voiced disbelief: "Only VAR clowns could look at this challenge on Cole Palmer and not see a stone-cold red for Ndidi. Unbelievable."

@CFC_Cody emphasised intent: "Ndidi clearly had no intention to play the ball; he deserves more than just a yellow."

@MattDebonoAC echoed the sentiment: "Every time you watch the Ndidi challenge, it gets worse and worse. Awful."

@CFCDigest added a sarcastic twist: "Ndidi attempts to end Palmer’s career, but the referee lets it go because the challenge was on a Chelsea player."

Watch the video here

Ndidi clearly had no intention to play the ball, he deserves more than just a yellow pic.twitter.com/ftjA1hwVaj

— Cody (@CFC_Cody) November 23, 2024