Joao Felix has hit the ground running since arriving in January but, as he continues to impress, the forward has been on the receiving end of more and more challenges
Chelsea are believed to have paid Atletico Madrid around £9million for Felix’s services until the end of the season. And, despite only a handful of appearances, Todd Boehly appears to have got his money’s worth as the forward continues to impress.
The Portugal international has featured eight times for Graham Potter’s side this season, directly contributing towards one goal. Felix has been a live wire in the side, proving a constant threat to the opposition — and, for some defenders, the only way to stop him is by bringing him down.
In Chelsea’s clash with the Foxes at the King Power Stadium on Saturday afternoon, Ricardo Pereira was pictured fouling Felix in a ‘disgusting’ manner. The Leicester defender appeared to plant the underside of his boot onto the Portuguese star’s ankle, causing him quite considerable pain.
Andre Marriner, the on-field referee, did not deem Pereira’s challenge to be a foul nor did VAR, who didn’t seem to undergo a check. So, with that being said, football.london have taken a look at some of the complaints from Premier League fans on social media.
@totalrj24 tweeted: “Disgusting challenge from Ricardo Pereira on João Felix, no booking btw.”
@UTDHaris tweeted: “prem refs been letting these horrific challenges go far too easily lately, not protecting players at all.”
@Koy1090 tweeted: “These 3pm games are always suspicious man . How’s that not a red? Lol.”
@OllieAFC tweeted: “The refs in this country are horrendous.”
@TeddyGraham1487 tweeted: “Would have been a red card for any Chelsea player. Ball nowhere close to that challenge.”
@MattPilgrim14 tweeted: “Good job with have var as that should easily be picked up …. or not.”
@Ramps82 tweeted: “Should be a red, didn’t even get a yellow. Do VAR work for the @BBC too and having a day off.”
@KanyeStreams1 tweeted: “Potter should be on the sideline screaming after that tackle but he’s sitting comfortably okay with the no card.”