Video: Leeds United boss Christiansen launches staunch defence of red-carded O'Kane
HEAD COACH Thomas Christiansen jumped to a passionate defence of Eunan O'Kane after the Leeds United midfielder was shown a straight-red card in Saturday's 1-0 loss at Championship hosts Ipswich Town.
United were dominating when O’Kane was given his marching orders after clashing with Ipswich’s Jonas Knudson in the 37th minute.
Photographers close to the incident said the Irish midfielder was sent off for a headbutt but Christiansen reacted angrily to such claims in his post-match press conference.
“Prove it,” said United’s head coach. “I believe my player. One person speak to you that he saw it, another one show me a video. In the video that we recorded, we see that.
“My son also saw it there and I trust my son. From the point of view where the camera is, there’s no sign of doing it and I take my conclusion from what I saw not from what someone said.
“The opponent went to him, they touched each other, yes, but the one that went down was the opponent and it was him that came and provoked.
“They touched each other, there was no sign that he goes to reply. The one who goes to the ground is the one who stayed on the pitch.”
Despite being down to ten men, United continued to create chances but the Whites were undone by a superb strike from Bersant Celina in the 67th minute.
“I’m happy with the response,” said Christiansen.
“At half-time my message was the same. We want to take the three points and we believe in that.
“Every player gave what they have and for me there is no complaining.
“Everyone in the stadium recognised that it was not right to lose this game.”