De Zerbi focuses on Spurs' failings – but should Bogle have seen red?

It was somewhat surprising to see Roberto de Zerbi take a more peaceful approach when he faced the media at Elland Road after Tottenham's 1-0 defeat by Leeds United on Saturday afternoon. The Spurs manager had been expected to come out swinging in the direction of the officials after his side's first Premier League loss since September, with much of the focus falling on referee John Brooks' decision not to send Jayden Bogle off for a late challenge on Mathys Tel during the first half. It was a decision that no doubt impacted the game – and perhaps Tottenham's chances of earning a fourth consecutive Premier League victory for the first time since October 2023.

When Bogle caught Tel with his studs, the game was still goalless and Tottenham were arguably the team on top at Elland Road. Following a lengthy video assistant referee (VAR) check that lasted more than four minutes, no further action was taken against the Leeds defender and the game resumed. That was not the case for Frenchman Tel, who was unable to continue after sustaining a bruising injury to his left foot. Former Premier League assistant referee Darren McCann said Bogle was "fortunate" not to be dismissed. "Bogle's challenge meets the criteria for serious foul play as he endangers the safety of an opponent," McCann