Sunderland manager Regis Le Bris has expressed frustration over what he describes as 'unclear' rules following Dan Ballard's controversial red card in the 1-1 draw against Wolves at Molineux.
Ballard was shown a straight red card for pulling Tolu Arokodare's hair while Sunderland were leading 1-0. Wolves later equalised, securing a point from the match.
This is the second time this season an opponent has been sent off for pulling Arokodare's hair, after Everton's Michael Keane received the same punishment in January. The rule has sparked debate across the Premier League.
Ballard's season is now over after he received a three-match ban for violent conduct. Le Bris did not hold back in his criticism of the regulations.
'Yes, we are disappointed because the situation was a bit unclear,' Le Bris said. 'The Premier League is built around physicality, duels, and intensity. I think Ballard tried to grab the shirt, and in the duel, unfortunately, long hair got caught. It wasn't intentional.'
'The law is the law, and I understand the referee, but at the same time, I think the rule is a bit unclear,' he added.
