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By Ebenezer Bajela.
After coming under heavy scrutiny following his role in the incident that led to the penalty that helped Manchester City doubled their lead in the 3-1 win at the Etihad on Saturday, Leicester City interim manager Dean Smith has defended Nigeria international Wilfred Ndidi, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.
Manchester City were awarded a penalty in the 11th minute after the midfielder was adjudged to have handled Jack Grealish’s cross.
While the penalty seemed harsh on Ndidi, a review of the VAR also proved that the Nigerian did indeed handle the ball.
Speaking on LCF TV, Smith admitted the referee made the right call but felt there was little the midfielder could have done about it.
“Yes, it’s unfortunate. I mean, Tim (Castagne) is looking to stop the cross. Jack Grealish lifts it, you know, to stand it up at the far post, and Wilf’s lifted his leg to try and stop it as well.
“And if the ball doesn’t hit his hand, it hits his face. But I would have certainly been claiming that as well if I was their manager”
Ndidi has been a shadow of himself since his return from a lengthy injury layoff last season and has made a total of 1,418 minutes in 22 appearances.
The Foxes have also struggled throughout the season, with the club currently sitting two points from safety.