Mike Dean hesitates as he reacts to Emi Martinez controversy for Aston Villa v Man United
Emi Martinez may have made his last appearance for Aston Villa against Manchester United, and if that is the case, it will not be one to remember.
The goalkeeper was shown a red card on the stroke of half-time, after a late challenge on Rasmus Hojlund, who was racing towards goal.
Martinez is being linked with a move away from Villa Park this summer, with a move to Saudi Arabia on the cards amid heavy links.
It finished 2-0 at Old Trafford, with everything going against the away side.
Mike Dean reacts to Martinez red card
Aston Villa came into the final game of the season, knowing that they needed to be at their best to secure Champions League football again.
However, despite usually being a reliable player in Claret and Blue, Martinez’s red card put the West Midlands outfit in a difficult position, as they went on to lose 2-0 at Old Trafford.
The sending off was not a decision that caused doubt in referee Thomas Bramall’s mind, although Mike Dean was left more hesitant when it came to the decision.
Speaking live on Sky Sports News (25 May, 16:47), Dean said: “Yeah, I mean he’s gone on field red card.
“To be perfectly honest with you, the angle the ball’s going there’s a bit of doubt, but he’s gone an on-field red because I think Hojlund would’ve got there and I think he would’ve had a shot on goal, so the opportunity was there.
“So, for me, I think the on-field decision will stay as a red card.”
Martinez could be leaving Aston Villa
Although there have been plenty of links away from Villa Park regarding Martinez, Unai Emery’s reaction to being asked about his future ahead of the Manchester United fixture suggested that may not be the case.
That being said, as Villa failed to secure their position in the Champions League for another season, Martinez’s part to play could leave questions over his abilities going forward.
While the end of the campaign isn’t what supporters in the West Midlands would have hoped for, there is plenty to be proud of this season and solid foundations for the boss to build on.
| Appearances | Goals Conceded | Clean Sheets |
| 37 | 45 | 9 |
Given how much he has given to Villa over his time at Villa Park, it would be a shame for the goalkeeper’s tenure to end this way.
However, Emery won’t be sentimental and knows that this summer he has to make every decision in the best interest of his squad.