Leif Davis robbed of Newcastle United dream after ‘absolutely ridiculous’ decision

Davis was sent off after 32 minutes for a mistimed lunge on Arsenal winger Bukayo Saka. While not an ultra-aggressive action, the 25-year-old tried to nick possession but ended up stamping on the back of Saka’s ankle.

Referee Chris Kavanagh had little choice but to give Davis his marching orders - with the Tractor Boys facing an uphill battle. At the time of writing, Ipswich trailed Arsenal 2-0 and are only avoiding guaranteed relegation by goal difference.

Davis has now robbed himself of a career-long dream as he cannot feature at St James’ Park next weekend. A product of Wallsend Boys Club, the left-back has made no secret of his desire to play against his boyhood club.

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He started in Newcastle’s 4-0 win at Portman Road last year but was set on taking to the field at St James’ Park. In an interview with Football Daily - where he admitted to wanting to represent the Magpies one day - Davis opened up about his black-and-white love affair.

“St James’ Park,” he said when asked what ground he would most want to play at. “It's incredible how it’s (Newcastle as a club) turned around. Everyone up there in Newcastle is so happy at the minute.”

Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher, working as a pundit on the game, agreed with the on-field call. VAR decided against sending Kavanagh to the monitor for a pitchside review.

“We’ve looked at it a few times because you’re thinking ‘Is it in between a yellow and a red, almost like an orange?’” Carragher told Sky Sports. “But the more you look at it, it’s a really good decision. What he’s doing (there) is absolutely ridiculous. There’s no way he can get the ball.”

Roy Keane also claimed the referee had no choice but to show the red card. He added: “He’s frustrated. Obviously, sometimes you have to put a marker down but that’s not right. It was the right decision and now they are really up against it.”

Leif Davis ended Ipswich Town speculation with new contract extension

Davis was linked with a move to Newcastle following Ipswich’s promotion last season. His 21 assists across all competitions and keen eye for goal saw him valued at £25million.

However, a contract extension penned at the back end of last year put those rumours to bed. Davis said after the announcement: "I am really pleased to have signed a new contract.

“I have loved my time at the club so far and have improved so much during my two seasons here working with this group of players and under a manager who has done so much for me. This feels like home now and I am excited to continue the journey."

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