Manchester United receive Marcus Rashford red card verdict after Aston Villa flashpoint

Manchester United have been informed they were fortunate not to be reduced to 10 men for the third time in as many matches after a high-profile flashpoint against Aston Villa.

With the score goalless, United forward Marcus Rashford - who was already on a yellow card - was penalised for bringing down Leon Bailey as he looked to cut in from the right-hand flank. The challenge was cynical at best and the England man, 26, was not close to winning the ball.

Instead of reaching for a second yellow card, though, Premier League referee Robert Jones decided to give him a talking to and place him on a final warning. Unsurprisingly, Rashford was immediately replaced by Antony - before he had the opportunity to get himself or his struggling team in any further trouble.

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Reflecting on the decision, co-commentator Jamie Carragher explained why he felt Rashford was fortunate not to be sent-off. "Ooooohhh. Well if he hadn't got a yellow card, this is a yellow card," he told Sky Sports.

"He's very lucky to still be on the pitch. He knows he's got past him and he brings him down.

"There isn't really an attempt for the ball. But the ball has already gone past..."

Carragher went on: "He goes for the ball, but knows he can't get it, then stops the attacking player. That should be a red card, or certainly a second yellow card that should be.

"Manchester United should be down to 10 men." In the past two games, United have been reduced to 10 men.

In both matches, Bruno Fernandes was the man sent-off. He received a straight red card against Tottenham - but it was rescinded - before then picking up two bookings in their Europa League draw with FC Porto on Thursday night.

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