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Former Premier League referee Mike Dean has agreed with the decision to only award Super Eagles defender Ola Aina a yellow card for his challenge on James Justin, stating that the tackle was low and reckless rather than a red card offense.
Recall that the Nigerian international made a lunging challenge on James Justin during a match, which initially sparked intense penalty and red card debates.
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The on-field referee penalized the challenge with a yellow card, and a subsequent VAR review chose not to upgrade the punishment.
Speaking on Sky Sports News, Mike Dean defended the final call made by the officials.
He explained: “I think because he is low, he has missed the ball completely and his back leg has just caught the other guy. I don’t think it is a sending off.”
Aina has been a key, reliable starter for Nottingham Forest, putting in consistent defensive shifts and shining as a wing-back.
In their recent 2026–27 Premier League opening match against Leeds United, he featured heavily before being subbed off in the 74th minute.
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He featured prominently during the 2025–26 campaign, making 18 league appearances and 8 UEFA Europa League appearances as Forest reached the tournament semi-finals.
The Super Eagles star is known for his physical defending, versatility across the backline, and occasional spectacular long-range goal.
