Former Premier League goalkeeper Shay Given has criticised Chelsea winger Alejandro Garnacho for a 'really nasty' and 'dangerous' challenge during Newcastle United's 2-2 draw at St James' Park. Speaking on BBC's Match of the Day, Given backed Eddie Howe's frustrations over several refereeing decisions, including Garnacho's high tackle on Jacob Ramsey.
Given argued that Garnacho made no attempt to play the ball and caught Ramsey high up, describing the tackle as 'really dangerous'. He believes VAR should have intervened, but the incident went unpunished. The draw saw Newcastle take a two-goal lead through Nick Woltemade's double, only for Chelsea to fight back with goals from Reece James and Joao Pedro.
Howe was particularly aggrieved by a penalty appeal when Trevoh Chalobah appeared to barge over Anthony Gordon. Given agreed, calling it a 'stonewall penalty', noting that Chalobah made no attempt to play the ball. The result leaves Chelsea fourth in the Premier League, while Newcastle remain 11th.
Both sides now prepare for their next fixtures: Chelsea face Aston Villa on December 27, while Newcastle travel to Manchester United on Boxing Day.
