Bristol City boss Michael Skubala says Charlton goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo should have been sent off

Bristol City head coach Michael Skubala believes Arthur Okonkwo should have received a red card during the first half of the 1-1 draw with Charlton at The Valley in London.

The Charlton goalkeeper, who returned to club duty after representing the Super Eagles, denied Yu Hirakawa a clear opportunity to score after a defensive mistake left him exposed.

Okonkwo came quickly off his line and spread himself to block Hirakawa’s attempt. The forward went down inside the penalty area after colliding with the goalkeeper and appealed for a penalty, but the referee dismissed the claims.

Skubala said he was unhappy with the decision when speaking to BBC Radio Bristol, arguing that Okonkwo should have been dismissed under the laws of the game.

“I think by the laws of the game, when the keeper brings down a player outside the box, it’s a red card,” Skubala said.

The Bristol City head coach also maintained that the incident had taken place outside the penalty area. In his view, that meant Charlton should have been awarded a free-kick, with Okonkwo still receiving a red card.

“It looked like there was contact, it looked like it was a foul. Yeah, it looked like a free-kick and a red card,” he added.

Despite the controversy, Okonkwo produced a solid display in front of the home supporters following his return to club football.

The former Arsenal goalkeeper made two saves as Charlton avoided defeat and secured a point from the match. However, he will be disappointed that his performance did not result in a victory for his side.