Chelsea vs Manchester United: Referee Martin Atkinson 'completely bottled' sending off David Luiz for Maroune Fellaini challenge, says Graeme Souness

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Standard Sport23 October 2016

Referee Martin Atkinson should have sent off Chelsea defender David Luiz for his high challenge on Manchester United midfielder Marouane Fellaini according to Graeme Souness, who accused the official "completely bottling" the decision.

Chelsea raced into a two-goal lead on Jose Mourinho's return to Stamford Bridge, with Pedro scoring the fastest goal of the season after capitalising on a mistake by United's back line after just 30 seconds.

Gary Cahill added a second after 21 minutes to put Antonio Conte's hosts in firm control of the Premier League tie, but Luiz was at the centre of controversy shortly before half-time.

Fellaini miscontrolled a ball before nicking it away from Luiz, who went it high on the Belgian midfielder with his studs raised, catching Fellaini on the knee in the process.

United players rushed over to complain about the challenge to Atkinson as Fellaini lay injured on the turf, but the referee decided the challenge was only worthy of a booking.

Former Liverpool captain Souness felt Atkinson made the incorrect call despite having a "clear view" of the incident, telling Sky Sports: "The guy's showing six studs, it's a red card. Martin Atkinson has completely bottled it."

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