Manchester City captain Vincent Kompany says he holds “no grudges” against referee Mike Dean after his dismissal against Arsenal.
The official, who had already sent off Laurent Koscielny earlier in the match, gave the Belgian a straight red card following a challenge with Jack Wilshere in the second half of City’s 2-0 win at the Emirates Stadium.
Kompany wrote on Twitter: “First. Massive congrats to our team and fans, great game! Also. No grudges against the referee, I understand the difficulty of the job.
“About the tackle: If the ball is overrun by the opponent and a 50/50 challenge occurs, collision is inevitable.”
City boss Roberto Mancini believes the referee made a mistake in sending his player off and has confirmed the club will appeal the red card.
Kompany added: “Ultimately I’m a defender: Appeal may work or not. I will never pull out of a challenge, as much as I will never intend to injury a player.”