• Premier League

Mancini: City will appeal Kompany red

ESPN staff
January 13, 2013
Vincent Kompany was sent off for a two-footed tackle on Jack Wilshere © PA Photos
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Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini has confirmed the club will appeal the red card Vincent Kompany received against Arsenal.

Kompany, 26, was dismissed in the 75th minute of City's 2-0 win at Arsenal by referee Mike Dean for a challenge on Jack Wilshere, although the Belgian won the ball.

The defender is set to miss the games versus against Fulham, Crystal Palace (in the FA Cup) and Queens Park Rangers.

But, speaking after the victory that kept his side within seven points of leaders Manchester United, Mancini said they will appeal the suspension.

"This is not a red card, absolutely not,'' he told Sky Sports. "He has one foot in and takes the ball. I think the referee made a mistake.''

Kompany later wrote on his official Twitter account that he has no plans to change his approach to tackling. He said: "First. Massive congrats to our team and fans, great game! Also. No grudges against the referee, I understand the difficulty of the job.''

He went on to defend his manner of making challenges, adding: "About the tackle: If the ball is overrun by the opponent and a 50/50 challenge occurs, collision is inevitable.

"Ultimately I'm a defender: Appeal may work or not. I will never pull out of a challenge, as much as I will never intend to injure a player.''

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