'He's fortunate' - Ex-refs chief: Leeds star saved from being sent off by West Ham player
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Credit: Imago Ethan Ampadu: Leeds star deserved red card vs West Ham, Adama Traore saved him – Ex-refs chief Mon 6 April 2026 14:30, UK Ethan Ampadu should have been shown red by Craig Pawson during Leeds United‘s FA Cup win over West Ham United.That is according to former PGMOL chief and ex-FIFA referee, Keith Hackett, who exclusively told Football Insider that Adama Traore’s reaction to the Welshman’s challenge saved him from a harsher punishment.Just two minutes into the second half on Sunday, 5 April, Ampadu scythed down his opponent, who was threatening to counter-attack, but replays showed a very high contact on Traore’s calf.Leeds needed penalties to beat West Ham, being taken to extra time after late goals from Mateus Fernandes and Axel Disasi, but it could have been very different for the home side against 10 men.Ethan Ampadu was shown a yellow card for this foul on Adama Traore.It was looked at by VAR, but the yellow card was not upgraded. pic.twitter.com/GgAJee51v5— The Athletic | Football (@TheAthleticFC) April 5, 2026 View Tweet ⚽ Leeds United Matchday ⚽ Team news, line-ups, expert previews and verdicts, and tactical analysis for every Leeds fixture. As a consequence, he’s fortunate not to get a red card.
“I think the reason he’s not got a red is that Ampadu hasn’t dived in. This player has gotten away with one, and he’s fortunate to do so.
“It easily could have been a red card, but I think the player not making a meal out of it helped him. It might not be quite enough for a sending off.”Ethan Ampadu vs West HamStats [FotMob]Minutes played120Touches91Successful dribbles25% (1/4)Tackles2Interceptions6Recoveries9Dribbled past3Ground duels won33% (4/12)Fouls committed2The decision almost certainly had an impact on the game, but at the same time, Max Kilman was lucky not to be punished for his late challenge on Anton Stach inside the penalty area, with the midfielder also picking up an injury.Leeds United already have a clear plan for AmpaduDespite his reckless challenge, Ampadu has quickly become one of Daniel Farke’s most important players since arriving on a £7million deal from Chelsea in the summer of 2023.The 25-year-old is already the Whites’ captain, starting 28 of their 31 Premier League matches this season, and being able to feature in midfield or the centre of defence.Mick Brown told Football Insider that Leeds are making “ambitious” plans to keep Ampadu, and even build the squad around him in future campaigns.While he is known for a few questionable challenges, picking up one too many yellow cards, his importance to the squad cannot be denied. 🚨 Don’t Miss a Beat: Your Leeds United Insider Access Get the full story from Elland Road and Thorp Arch with our dedicated expert hubs: Updated 24/7 with expert analysis from the heart of West Yorkshire.