Keith Hackett backs red card for Axel Disasi in Palace defeat

Axel Disasi was justly sent off for a challenge that demonstrated "malice" as Crystal Palace lost 3-2 to Ipswich Town on Saturday. This is the view of former head of PGMOL and FIFA referee, Keith Hackett, who spoke exclusively to Football Insider. The Eagles struggled with ten men, and a late goal from Zian Flemming resulted in their third Premier League defeat of the season.

Disasi, 28, is currently on loan from Chelsea after making a strong impression in the latter part of last season with West Ham. However, his time at Selhurst Park has started poorly, and he will now face a three-match suspension. With Leeds United, Nottingham Forest and Brighton on the horizon in the Premier League, Pierre Sage's side will need to find a temporary solution.

Disasi had already been caught out by Ipswich's equaliser, failing to track Emerson's run and raising his hand for offside as the ball hit the net. Things worsened just ten minutes later when he left his studs up while attempting to challenge Jack Clarke. Although there was not a significant impact, the Frenchman was late and high, resulting in a straight red card from Chris Kavanagh. "That is a reckless challenge which endangers the safety of his opponent," Hackett told Football Insider. "The player has used excessive force with disregard to his opponent. I can also determine a degree of malice. Red card is the correct decision."

Crystal Palace's troubles continue, as many had predicted they would struggle this season, and they have yet to dispel that notion. Pierre Sage would have hoped that facing newly-promoted Ipswich would offer a chance to regain form, but Disasi's error proved costly. The Eagles now face a three-match absence without him and remain in serious danger of a relegation battle this season. While the fight-back from players like Jorgen Strand Larsen and Anan Khalaili on Saturday was encouraging, there is evidently much work to be done.

Source: Footballinsider247