Hackett Exclusive: Kiko Saito ban verdict after Dan James incident in QPR v Leeds

Hackett Exclusive: Kiko Saito ban verdict after Dan James incident in QPR v Leeds

QPR winger Kiko Saito “clearly” deserved to be sent off for an “unacceptable” challenge on Leeds winger Dan James, according to Keith Hackett.

The former PGMOL chief and ex-FIFA official exclusively told Football Insider that despite the nasty foul, it would not warrant an extended ban, with the Japanese winger now set to serve a three match suspension.

Saito gave QPR the lead in the 17th minute, before centre-back Steve Cook doubled the Hoops’ lead on the half-hour mark.

An own-goal from Morgan Fox gave the visitors a lifeline in the 40th minute, before Jayden Bogle made it 2-2 with 51 minutes gone.

The result was a frustrating one for Leeds, as they missed the opportunity to solidify their lead at the top of the Championship table.

Manor Solomon was frustrated to be substituted against QPR. (Copyright: xMalcolmxBrycex)

Kiko Saito sent off for nasty foul on Dan James

After a second half full of Leeds pressure, QPR had managed to hang on for a point against the Championship table-toppers.

MORE FOOTBALL INSIDER STORIES

However, they will now be without their talented Japanese for their next three fixtures.

In the 93rd minute, Dan James who has impressed for Leeds this season, looked to break away down the right-hand side.

Sensing danger, Saito lunged into a challenge, stamping down on the back of the Welsh winger’s calf, bringing him down.

2024/25 Championship stats James Appearances 31 Starts 26 Goals 10 Assists 9 Minutes 2,264

The reaction to the foul was understated from the players on the pitch, with Leeds looking to restart quickly, until referee Tim Robinson halted play, brandishing a red card for Saito.

Loftus Road was left in shock, but the replays showed the referee had been spot on with his decision, with the foul clearly a dangerous one.

Leeds manager Daniel Farke watched his side drop points against QPR.

Keith Hackett reacts to ‘unacceptable’ challenge on Dan James

Having analysed the incident, ex-PGMOL chief, Hackett, gave his expert view on the challenge exclusively to Football Insider, saying: “Clearly a red card and an unacceptable challenge.

“Serious Foul play, a three match ban.

“Only in exceptional circumstances will the panel bring in a ban beyond three matches.”

Leeds only had three minutes to make the most of the man advantage, and failed to do so, leaving London with just a point.

The Yorkshire side will now nervously await the results of Burnley and Sheffield United‘s matches against Swansea and Sheffield Wednesday respectively.

All three sides are in a fierce battle to claim the top two spots in the Championship, thereby guaranteeing themselves promotion to the Premier League.

Leeds’ next game will be against Swansea on Saturday 29 March, as they look to get back to winning ways, having only been victorious once in their last four matches.

Click here to read article