Newly released audio has captured Declan Rice's immediate protest after being sent off for Arsenal against Brighton last month. The midfielder received a second yellow card from referee Chris Kavanagh for nudging the ball away following a foul, sparking fury from the player and his teammates.
In the Match Officials Mic'd Up series, Kavanagh is heard saying: 'I have no choice, he knocks the ball away. He's put me in an awful position. Dec you need to go.' Rice responded: 'No I didn't.' Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard also expressed disgust, saying: 'It's a joke.'
After the match, Rice maintained his innocence: 'I was shocked. I've touched the ball with the outside of my foot. But if you touch the ball away, even a little bit, obviously it's a red card after my challenge in the first half. It was tough, it was harsh.'
The red card was upheld, meaning Rice missed the North London derby, which Arsenal won 1-0 against Tottenham. He is set to return for the Champions League opener against Atalanta and the Premier League clash with Manchester City.
