Daniel Farke is set to launch an astonishing appeal against his Elland Road red card and he’s demanding the FA study “ref cam” footage to prove he did absolutely nothing wrong.
The Leeds chief was sent packing by ref Peter Bankes after the final whistle of Saturday’s gut wrenching 1-0 defeat to Manchester City. But here’s the thing, Farke claims the card was whipped out BEFORE he’d even opened his mouth .
The German was left baffled, captured on camera asking Bankes what on earth he’d been dismissed for. Now Leeds are set to lodge an official appeal, believing the camera clipped to the official’s lug will clear their gaffer’s name .
THE REF CAM DEFENCE
Bankes was wearing a body camera for the game, part of an ongoing FA pilot scheme testing whether the tech can improve behaviour towards officials . And Farke reckons the footage will prove he’s got no case to answer.
Leeds insiders reckon there’s a strong chance the video evidence will get the red rescinded. The club are preparing to submit it as part of their formal appeal .
Assistant boss Edmund Riemer leapt to Farke’s defence: “I am disappointed because he’s never a manager who’s over aggressive or over reacting. I think it’s a very harsh decision” .
WHAT ACTUALLY HAPPENED
Farke had just watched his side dominate large spells against the titlenchasers, only to be undone by Antoine Semenyo’s strike eight seconds BEFORE half time . Leeds had 14 shots, pinned City back, and felt they should have had a penalty for Matheus Nunes’ handball .
But the real anger? Time wasting. City were booked for it, six minutes were added, and just as Leeds prepared to launch one final ball into the box, Bankes blew up .
Riemer explained: “If you’re chasing the game and see the opposition wasting time, they got booked for it then you can add a few seconds more. You’re emotional. The explanation is going to be that he is overly emotional. We’d wish for a more sensible reaction from the referee, to give a yellow card” .
THE BAN SITUATION
Farke IS facing a touchline ban. But here’s the good news for Leeds, he’ll still be in the dugout for Tuesday’s massive home clash with Sunderland. His case won’t be heard in time .
After that? It’s likely at least a one match watching brief from the stands . In a relegation battle where every point is gold, that’s a blow.
THE RAMADAN SIDE STORY
Saturday night was drama from start to finish. Before Farke’s red, there was booing from some home fans when play was paused in the 11th minute for City’s Muslim players to break their Ramadan fast .
Pep Guardiola wasn’t impressed: “It’s the modern world, right? Respect the religion, respect the diversity.” Kick It Out called the reaction “massively disappointing” .
Riemer admitted: “Disappointed with some supporters if it happens and we try to learn out of it” .
WHAT HAPPENS NOW
Leeds will appeal. The FA will review. And somewhere on Peter Bankes’ bodycam, the truth of what really happened at that final whistle is waiting to be seen.
Farke’s convinced it’ll clear him. We’re about to find out.
