Overview
- Referee Gavin Ward showed a straight red about 10 minutes from time, roughly 35 minutes after Rothwell came on at half-time.
- Sheffield United lost 2-1 to Middlesbrough, with the dismissal halting momentum after Patrick Bamford’s goal gave the hosts hope.
- Ex-PGMOL chief Keith Hackett and broadcasters said the tackle was high and reckless and that the red card was the correct decision.
- Chris Wilder said he had no complaints about the call and suggested the mistimed challenge reflected frustration from recent lack of first‑team football.
- Rothwell arrived on deadline day after a difficult spell at Rangers and is expected to miss at least three matches, with the EFL able to review for further sanction.