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West Ham defender Fabian Balbuena has had the controversial red card he picked up against Chelsea overturned, meaning he will no longer face a three-match suspension.
The Paraguayan was dismissed with nine minutes to go in the Hammers’ 1-0 defeat for making contact with Ben Chilwell following a clearance. Initially no card was given. However, after consulting with the pitchside monitor, referee Chris Kavanagh showed the centre-back a straight red.
The decision was condemned on social media and on Tuesday the FA announced that the decision had been rescinded.
“Regulation and Discipline update. An independent Regulatory Commission has removed Fabian Balbuena’s three-match suspension following a successful claim of wrongful dismissal.
The West Ham United FC defender was dismissed for serious foul play during a Premier League fixture against Chelsea FC on Saturday [24/04/21],” an official statement read.
The news is a huge boost for David Moyes’ side who still have a chance of sneaking into the Premier League top four this season. The Hammers currently sit fifth, three points adrift of Chelsea in fourth with five games left to play.
West Ham probably have the kindest run-in out of the teams vying for a Champions League spot. After travelling to Turf Moor to take on Burnley, they host Everton and then play struggling Brighton and West Brom. They finish the season with a home game against Southampton, who will likely have nothing to play for on the final day.
Key to the Hammers chances will be the fitness of Declan Rice. The talismanic midfielder has missed his side’s last four games after picking up an injury while on England duty. Although he is unlikely to be back in time for the Burnley game on Monday, he could return for the rest of the Hammers’ run-in.