It was a difficult start to the game for Russell Martin’s side. Despite a goal from Joe Aribo, goals from Axel Disasi, Christopher Nkunku and Noni Madueke saw them trail 3-1 within 35 minutes.

Things got even more difficult for Southampton with five minutes left when Stephens was sent off.

As Cucurella lined up to cross the Saints captain for a corner, the defender could be seen pulling the Chelsea player’s hair somewhat forcefully.

That then led to Stephens being sent off after a video review by referee Tony Harrington, and Hackett insists he has no complaints about that decision.

Keith Hackett blames VAR for Jack Stephens’ sending off in Southampton v Chelsea game

Harrington himself did not initially notice the incident; it was picked up by the VAR, which recommended an on-field review by the referee.

After viewing the footage, the referee wasted no time in showing Stephens a red card, giving Chelsea a man advantage for the rest of the game.

Hackett is in full agreement with the decision to give the Southampton captain his marching orders for what he said was a “violent” move Football Insider:

“Our game is FOOTBALL and apart from the goalkeeper, we expect players to play with their feet.

“Jack Stephen’s let his team down as he clearly pulled his opponent’s hair.

“Congratulations to the VAR for intervening. After looking at the incident, the referee finds it easy to give the player a red card for a violent act.”

With Southampton going into the game bottom of the table and two goals behind Chelsea, who are in top form, Stephens’ sacking will have done little to help his under-pressure coach Russell Martin.

The incident came days after the Saints were also on the wrong end of a more controversial VAR offside call in their 1-1 draw with Brighton.

Plus, Chelsea fans react to the latest update on Reece James.

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