Coloccini still unhappy despite red card ‘justice’

Rob Conlon
Fabricio Coloccini: Defender controversially saw red in derby

Fabricio Coloccini: Defender controversially saw red in derby

Newcastle captain Fabricio Coloccini says it is “justice” that his controversial red card against Sunderland has been rescinded.

Coloccini controversially conceded a penalty and was sent off on the stroke of half-time in the Tyne-Wear derby, in which Newcastle were beaten 3-0.

The Magpies could argue they were the better side up until that point, and the defender admits he is still angry at the decision.

“It is justice. It is not a surprise to me that the red card was overturned because it was a wrong decision.” the Argentine told the club’s official website.

“I am happy because I am able to play against Stoke, but it does not change what happened on Sunday. The red card affected the game and the result, which was very painful for everyone in the Club and the city.

“We lost the game, we lost three points and we lost the derby. We cannot get that back, and that is why I cannot be too happy about winning the appeal – it does not change these things.

“As soon as the referee gave the red card, I knew it was wrong. I spoke with the referee but he had made his decision. I was very angry on the pitch. I am normally a quiet man but it was a very big injustice in a big game.

“During my career I have had plenty of red cards, and am the first man to put my hands up if I have done wrong but straight away I knew this red card was not the right decision, and that is why I was very angry on the pitch.”