Worst Premier League Afternoon For Dismissed Semi Ajayi

The Nigerian international is certainly making his impact felt in his first-ever campaign in the English top-flight, but it was unfortunately for the wrong reason on Saturday

In his 24th Premier League appearance, Semi Ajayi was shown his first red card of the Premier League season in West Brom’s clash at Burnley. 

The Super Eagles defender had been one of the most consistent performers for the Baggies during a tough and largely disappointing campaign.

But his afternoon ended early at Turf Moor after he was dismissed for a professional foul by referee Mike Dean.

With just half an hour played, last man Ajayi struck the ball with his hand, denying Matej Vydra a goal-scoring opportunity.

And after consulting the Video Assistant Referee VAR, the referee decided to send off the former Arsenal man, in what is the first red card Ajayi has received after a combined 186 Premier League and EFL appearances.

Ajayi’s red card is also West Brom’s fourth Premier League red card this season.

Despite going a man down away from home with only a third of the match played, Sam Allardyce’s men fought hard to keep a clean sheet and earn a valuable point.

Still, West Brom remain 11 points from safety with just 14 games left of the league season.