Premier League explain Evanilson red card as striker 'endangers' Man Utd rival

The Premier League have explained the decision to send off Bournemouth striker Evanilson during Sunday's match against Manchester United, stating that his challenge on Noussair Mazraoui put the opponent's safety at risk. Evanilson was initially given a yellow card for the 67th-minute tackle but was later shown a red card after referee Peter Bankes reevaluated the incident at the monitor following a VAR review.

In a statement, the Premier League explained: "VAR recommended an on-field review for a possible red card for the challenge by Evanilson on Mazraoui – with the challenge deemed to be two-footed with both feet off the ground, endangering the safety of the opponent. Upon review, the referee issued a red card to Evanilson for serious foul play."

The decision sparked confusion among fans and pundits alike, with Alan Smith commenting on Sky Sports: "I'm a bit dumbfounded by that one. I know it ends up being a dangerous challenge but it's a total accident. If you do slip in that fashion, you can't help it."

The incident was the second major controversy of the match, with Tyler Adams appearing to avoid a red card for a heavy challenge on Alejandro Garnacho. A Premier League explanation read: "The referee's call of yellow card for the challenge by Adams on Garnacho was checked and confirmed by VAR – with the challenge deemed reckless and not serious foul play."

Antoine Semenyo secured Bournemouth the advantage with an expertly executed first-half goal. United eventually secured an equaliser against the 10-man Cherries deep into injury time with a deflected Rasmus Hojlund finish securing a point for the Red Devils.

That meant Ruben Amorim's men avoided suffering a 16th defeat of the Premier League campaign and head into their Europa League semi-final first leg against Athletic Club on more of a positive note.