Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain was fortunate to avoid a harsher punishment following a contentious tackle on Motherwell’s Elijah Just, according to Des Roache…
The former Scottish top-flight referee suggested the Celtic midfielder was at risk of being dismissed during the 3-1 victory over Motherwell at the weekend, with referee John Beaton opting to issue only a yellow card.
Enjoy tea, biscuits and The Celtic Star – completely ad free…
Never see another Ad on The Celtic Star! Subscribe Now and get Seven Days for Free!
The incident saw Oxlade-Chamberlain make contact high on Just’s ankle with his studs, leaving the New Zealand international requiring treatment before he was able to continue.
While the on-field decision was a booking, Roache argued that the challenge bordered on dangerous play and could just as easily have resulted in a red card.
Speaking via Daily Record, Roache said: “The Oxlade-Chamberlain one, I thought that was naughty. I wouldn’t like to think he went out there to hurt anyone and I don’t think he did, but if a red card was given there, I don’t think you would get any complaints over it.”
“Thankfully Elijah Just – who has been an absolute revelation this year – has not come away with a bad injury.”
There were also appeals for Daizen Maeda to be sent off following an apparent elbow on Ibrahim Said, but Roache dismissed suggestions of violent conduct, although he admitted surprise that the Celtic forward was not at least cautioned for his reaction to the Motherwell winger.
He said: “I wouldn’t be looking for a red card for it. I think he’s very lucky not to escape with the minimum of a yellow card. I think it was maybe an outstretched arm, but then why is he getting involved with Said when he’s on the ground and pushing him?
“It’s not like Maeda. I’ve not really seen that side of his game before. I think a yellow card for unsporting behaviour and being stupid really, but I don’t see it being violent or serious foul play.”
14.03.2026 Celtic v Motherwell, Scottish Premiership. Emmanuel Longelo receives a red card from John Beaton after a VAR review. Photo Kenny Ramsay IMAGO
Roache had no arguments for Emmanuel Longelo’s red after John Beaton had to go the VAR monitor once again to award Celtic a penalty kick.
Conor Spence
Celtic in the Thirties by Matt Corr. Click on image to order
Another recruit for the send off a Celtic player.hh
The guy must be a hunny bear.
Nonsense. That Elijah Just is a wee girl. Divin aboot aw the time. Git in the face wi the baw & looked like he’d been shot!
Dinnae want someone like him join us