Hull City boss says striker Estupinan doesn’t deserve three-game ban after red card against Millwall

Hull City manager Liam Rosenior understood why Oscar Estupinan was shown a straight red card in today’s stalemate at Millwall but reckoned it was no more than a “freak accident”.

The Colombian striker was sent off before the break after a high boot to the face of Charlie Cresswell which left the Leeds United loanee with serious facial injuries.

Millwall couldn’t make the extra man advantage count as they drew 0-0 with the Tigers.

Rosenior said: “He can’t see the player – so it’s not a challenge. He’s tried to take the ball down, so it was more of a collision.

“I can see why the referee’s given it in terms of what it’s looks like. I feel sorry for Oscar because he’s saying sorry to me and all the lads in there.

“He was magnificent for the first half an hour in terms of the energy he brought. The biggest thing for me to understand is why it was given, I just hope it’s not seen as dangerous or reckless play because he has tried to take the ball down, it’s just an unfortunate incident.

“I will speak to the referee after the game, just to see what his view is – because there’s a difference between a one-game suspension and a three-game one, which would be a big hit to us.

“He’s our top-scorer, he’s been a joy to work with and he’s got no blame on him today.

“It’s difficult to appeal. I wasn’t happy with decision because I’m a footballer and can see his intentions but I understand the ref’s point of view could be different. I can see why the referee’s given it but as someone who’s played the game I know it was a complete freak accident.”

Rosenior was appointed as Hull manager on Thursday and gave his thoughts on the point in South London.

He added: “Coming here where Millwall have won seven games out of nine at home, second-best record in the league and everybody said to me it couldn’t be a tougher game for your first ever permanent manager’s job. I don’t disagree with that. I’ve had two real working days with the players, in terms of sessions, so for them to take on the tactical information and to give the energy, passion and commitment that has to be the base of a successful team.

“If we keep those levels of commitment and application, we can climb up the table.”