Maddison had to see red for stomach punch, fumes Nuno

NOTTINGHAM FOREST manager Nuno Espirito Santo was infuriated that his side’s defeat on his return to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium was marred by a punch from James Maddison which went unpunished. With the score at 1-1, the England midfielder threw a punch into the stomach of Forest captain Ryan Yates but neither referee Simon Hooper, nor the VAR, appeared to spot the incident, even though it was obvious on television images. Nuno said: ‘It is a red card. I saw the image and that’s why I speak to you. I was surprised that VAR didn’t tell Simon to review it because honestly Maddison loses his composure and it’s a punch in the stomach of Yates. ‘I thought there would be a different decision than to chat to the players as if nothing happens. It was off the ball and this kind of moment can change the game. I didn’t ask the referee about it after the game, but I saw it, that is why I am telling you this.’ Nuno also bemoaned a chance late in the first half when Forest goalscorer Chris Wood struck the post with the score at 1-1. He added: ‘These kinds of moments can change games. We will keep on fighting. We need to fight until the end. Now we have to prepare the next one at home at the City Ground.’ Tottenham’s victory, which sent them back to fourth in the Premier League table, was clinched by goals from defenders Micky van de Ven and Pedro Porro. Tottenham boss Ange Postecoglou paid tribute to Van de Ven. He said: ‘With Micky, it’s just his sheer desire to be the best he can be. He’s got so many great qualities. People talk about his speed but he’s strong and he’s getting better and better on the ball. ‘I couldn’t care less about being fourth. Everyone has been banging on about us getting fourth. We’re fourth now but it doesn’t stop, we’ll keep going. ‘We’re in a good shape to finish the season strong.’ Postecoglou also paid tribute to former Tottenham player Joe Kinnear, whose death was announced during the game. Postecoglou added: ‘Very sad. I’ve just heard about it now. He is one of those figures who will always be remembered at this football club and as a distinguished manager. ‘Sad loss. Everyone speaks very highly of him as a person.’