John Fleck received a surprising red card upon his return from injury with Sheffield United’s u21’s last night. Fleck was one of two senior players in the lineup against Reading at Chesterfield, he was sent off 10 minutes before half-time for a challenge on Jahmari Clarke. Although the challenge was slightly late, Fleck appeared astonished as the referee swiftly issued the red card.
Rhian Brewster, the other senior player, received a yellow for protesting against the referee’s shocking decision. Several other players were booked for trying to talk to the ref during the match.
Making his first appearance since recovering from a pre-season leg fracture, Fleck was likely intended to play only 45 minutes. Brewster was also substituted at halftime after scoring earlier with a neatly taken first-timed finish with his weak foot.
While Fleck’s u21’s red card won’t impact his eligibility for upcoming Premier League games, it may hinder plans to use him in u21 matches for his recovery after serving months on the sidelines.
The Blades were firmly in control of the Premier League cup tie up to the red card. United led 2-0 with goals from Antwoine Hackford and Brewster, but Reading made full use of the man advantage by scoring two late goals, resulting in a draw.
