New Ajax manager ‘wanted to attack’ Howard Webb for red card in World Cup final
Current Ajax manager Johnny Heitinga wanted to 'attack' Howard Webb after the 2010 World Cup final.
Heitinga was part of the Netherlands squad that reached the final of the 2010 World Cup, only to lose out in heartbreaking fashion to Andres Iniesta's extra-time strike. However, when Iniesta netted, Heitinga wasn't on the pitch with the Dutchman having been handed his marching orders.
The defender was sent off for persistent fouling, and the ex- Everton man wasn't best pleased about the decision. Speaking to Ladbrokes, he explained: “I've spoken with Howard Webb, who refereed that final in 2010, on a number of occasions.
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"I talked with him a couple of months after that night, and he told me it was so difficult for him. Also, from our side, we were not ourselves; we were nervous. It was difficult for everyone, but especially Howard and the linesmen; nowadays it's much easier with VAR.
“Of course, I received a red card myself on that night, in extra-time. I was full of emotion in that moment – and walking off that pitch, it just felt like such a long walk. I felt lonely.
"After the match, I was still upset. I look back now and I'm glad our manager grabbed hold of me, because I wanted to attack Howard Webb. In my eyes, it was an unfair decision he made."
Do you remember Johnny Heitinga's red card in the World Cup final? Let us know in the comments section
Heitinga is currently the interim boss at Ajax, after they sacked Alfred Schreuder – who failed to continue the success that was built under Erik ten Hag.
Despite only losing twice this season, the Amsterdam-based side have drawn seven times, seeing them sink to third in the table. Under Heitinga, Ajax have beaten Excelsior and RKC Waalwijk.
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