'Happy' - Aston Villa chief pokes fun at Newcastle United star with cheeky remark
Sven Botman was accused of nearly breaking Nicolas Jackson’s leg during Newcastle United’s defeat to Aston Villa.
Aston Villa’s director of football operations Damian Vidagany has poked fun at Sven Botman after the Newcastle United defender was accused of nearly breaking Nicolas Jackson’s leg.
Former Newcastle transfer target Johan Manzambi scored in the 36th minute to give Villa a 1-0 victory, as they recorded successive wins at St James’ Park for the first time in 68 years.
But before Manzambi headed Villa in front, the visitors felt aggrieved after Botman avoided a red card for a lunging challenge on striker Jackson. A VAR check took place, but the officials at Stockley Park stuck with referee Jarred Gillett’s on-field decision to show a yellow card.
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After the game, Jackson said: “I'm good. I know the referee said yellow card, but it was so high and hopefully maybe next time a red card, but it was a yellow.
“I nearly broke my leg, but anyway it's part of football. The most important thing is we win and we won so I'm OK and he [Manzambi] is OK.”
Jackson was able to play the full 90 minutes, much to the relief of Villa and Vidagany, who referenced the incident in a social media post after the game.
“One battle after another,” Vidagany wrote on X. “Amazing win in one of the toughest away matches and great atmospheres of the league. Newcastle is a great team and SJP a special place to win, lovely to see our fans celebrate like they deserve.
“Happy to have the 3 points and come back with Jackson in one piece. UTV!!!”
Vidagany was sat alongside Unai Emery when the Villa manager was asked about the incident during his post-match press conference.
Emery said: “Last year, we had a big injury for Youri Tielemans here. I am not complaining because I know football is like that and here they have strong players in duels. Now we must be ready to play at this level with some duels like that.
“The referees must protect the players but I am not complaining. I have not watched the action. It is something for the players which is hard to compete in this level with the duels.”