By ANTONY KASTRINAKIS
ANGRY Roberto Mancini hit out after Vincent Kompany’s straight red card at Arsenal.
The Manchester City boss, who will appeal against his captain’s dismissal for a tackle on Jack Wilshere, said: “It was no foul because it is impossible that we can lose one player for three games for nothing. It was absolutely not a red card.
“He went into the tackle, anticipating the opponent and took the ball before.
“I don’t know how it is possible to get a red card like this.”
Ref Mike Dean sent off Kompany for the 75th-minute challenge.
Defender Kompany last night tweeted: “No grudges against the ref, I understand the difficulties of the job.
“About the tackle: if the ball is over-run by the opponent and a 50-50 challenge occurs, collision is inevitable.
“Ultimately I’m a defender, appeal may work or not. I will never pull out of a challenges as I will never intend to injure a player.”
Kompany will be suspended for league matches against Fulham and QPR plus the FA Cup fourth-round tie at Crystal Palace or Stoke.
But he could also miss City’s February clash with Liverpool if City’s appeal is considered trivial.
Arsenal defender Laurent Koscielny was also sent off for denying Edin Dzeko a goalscoring opportunity in the 10th minute.
Gunners boss Arsene Wenger said: “I was surprised. Honestly. I refuse to watch it again because how does it help now?
“We have to live with the decision and make the most of it. I’ve heard it was a penalty. Was it a red card, I don’t know.”
