Coach of Scottish Premier League ( SPL) side Rangers Steven Gerrard is unhappy with the incident that led to the injury sustained by Super Eagles midfielder Joe Aribo in their League Cup win over ‎Livingston.
Aribo was stretched out after 22 minutes forcing Rangers into a change with Aribo who scored on his debut for Nigeria requiring as many as 20 stitches after the incident and subsequently ruled out of their weekend game against Aberdeen.
Gerrard believe referee Don Robertson should have sent Ricki Lamie off for the incident as his elbow caught Aribo badly which constitute dangerous play judging by the laws of the game.
The injury means Aribo could be out for ten days but back in time for the senior national team of Nigeria next friendly game against Brazil in Singapore next month.
‘It’s interesting him saying that we got away with one,’ said Gerrard (right). ‘Don’t take me there – don’t take me there.’ Pressed for his thoughts, Gerrard added: ‘There were a few head knocks – and a couple the last time we played this team as well.
‘Is it skirting close to dangerous play? You are the people who have to write about that and have an opinion on that. A boy has just gone off with 20 stitches in his head.
‘Now, I have watched Lamie long enough to know he is not that type of player. I’m not accusing him of anything out of order.
‘But that is serious foul play because he has led with the elbow and Joe has been caught. Unfortunately he will be missing for a short while with 20 stitches in his forehead but it is what it is.’ Aribo will miss Saturday’s Premiership meeting with Aberdeen after the clash.
‘You could see he was gushing with blood but the doctor did a fantastic job,’ added Gerrard.
