Middlesbrough manager Michael Carrick has launched a scathing attack on the officials following his side’s 2-1 defeat to Leeds United, branding the decision to send off Anfernee Dijksteel as “the worst” he has ever seen.
The pivotal moment arrived in the 37th minute at the Riverside Stadium. With the score level at 1-1, defender Dijksteel was shown a straight red card by referee Jarred Gillett for a challenge on Leeds forward Wilfried Gnonto. The decision left Boro to play over 50 minutes with ten men.
Carrick did not hold back in his post-match assessment. “The red card is the worst decision I have ever seen in my life,” he stated emphatically. “I am struggling to find the words for it, honestly. It is an incredible decision. I have watched it back and it is not even a foul, let alone a yellow or red card.”
The Boro boss confirmed the club will appeal the dismissal. “We will appeal, 100 percent. I would be amazed if it is not overturned,” Carrick added, expressing his confidence that the decision will be rescinded.
Despite the numerical disadvantage, Middlesbrough took a shock lead in the 61st minute through Emmanuel Latte Lath. However, Leeds’ pressure eventually told as Crysencio Summerville equalised in the 83rd minute before setting up Patrick Bamford for a dramatic 89th-minute winner.
Carrick praised his players’ effort but reiterated his fury at the game-changing call. “The boys were incredible, absolutely incredible. To play like that with ten men for so long… but it is decided by a decision like that, which is just not right.”
The defeat leaves Middlesbrough 13th in the Championship table, while Leeds strengthen their position in the automatic promotion race.
