• Football

Last-man reds are unfair - Neuer

ESPN staff
February 21, 2014
Arsenal impress in Germany

Bayern Munich goalkeeper Manuel Neuer has urged FIFA to consider abandoning the "triple punishment" of a penalty, red card, and suspension for denying a clear goalscoring opportunity in the penalty box.

During the last 16 tie between Arsenal and Bayern at Emirates Stadium, Wojciech Szczesny conceded a penalty after fouling Arjen Robben, and was subsequently sent off for the challenge.

Although David Alaba missed the penalty, Bayern went on to win the game 2-0 and Szczesny will now be banned for the second leg at the Allianz Arena on March 11.

The Pole's opposite number Neuer has stated his belief that conceding a spot kick is an adequate punishment in such a situation and that handing out a red card, too, is excessive.

"One should reconsider the rule," Neuer said. "From a keeper's point of view you have to be critical of the red card. The team is already punished by the penalty call."

Bayern president Uli Hoeness echoed Neuer's opinion. He said that the rule "needs to be changed" but added that "as long as the rule stands it has to be implemented with all consequences."

The red card ultimately swung the game into Bayern's favour and they made their man advantage count to break the Gunners' resistance.

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