Mick McCarthy has launched a strong defence of the art of tackling following the sending-off of Nenad Milijas at Arsenal in midweek.
Wolves boss insists tackling crucial after Milijas loses his appeal
Wolves manager Mick McCarthy has launched a strong defence of the art of tackling following the sending-off of Nenad Milijas at Arsenal in midweek.
Milijas lost his appeal to the Football Association against the red card issued by referee Stuart Attwell for the challenge on Gunners playmaker Mikel Arteta and will serve a three-game ban starting with Saturday's clash at Bolton.
But McCarthy insists Milijas' challenge was fair and believes it will be to the detriment of the game if such tackles are outlawed.
He said: "I think the fabric of the British game is based on people tackling.
"I think Milijas has made a really good tackle. I don't think Stuart Attwell can see that. He has guessed at it.
"Their players actually carry on. We have got a lad whose foot is on the floor. He's not jumped. His foot is on the floor. He has slid in. He's got his studs up because that's what you do.
"If ever there is a picture of someone getting the ball, that's it."
Fabric
McCarthy added: "The fabric of our game is based on tackles.
"That's why people come and watch because it's exciting because people are tackled.
"It's part of our game. If they take that out, it's gone.
"I've had a lovely text from one of my fellow managers saying 'God help us.' I sent him one back asking 'what's up?' He replied, 'that sending off."'
McCarthy added: "My question is 'who sits on the panel and who has compounded that decision - which I think is a bad one - by agreeing with him (Attwell)?'
"The referee's report ticks every box. It said that he (Milijas) came in with force with his studs up and slid in.
"My point is that no-one thinks it's reckless endangerment towards the other player.
Mistake
"Look, in that atmosphere anyone can make a mistake. But why then compound that mistake by agreeing with it?
"Surely for the honesty and integrity of the game it shouldn't be a three-match ban. That's my view."
McCarthy has some sympathy for Bolton boss Owen Coyle whose side has been decimated compared to the one which reached the FA Cup semi-final last season.
He said: "I think when you lose players that they've lost - Elmander, Sturridge, Holden, Lee - I think that's going to cause problems to anybody.
"I feel a bit for Owen from that point of view. You can't afford to lose your best players.
"I think everyone should remember how well Owen did when he went into the job, but then he had the full compliment of players."
