Iago Aspas has been praise for displaying a new level of footballing intelligence after appearing to get himself yellow carded deliberately last night.
The Spain international opened the scoring for Celta Vigo in a 2-1 defeat to Valencia at Estadio de Balaidos but picked up an injury as he poked home his fifth goal of the season.
While he was mobbed by teammates, Aspas knew straight away that he was injured.
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Brais Mendez could be seen in conversation with the former Liverpool man and very quickly, Aspas picked up the most tactical of bookings when he removed his shirt.
He then dropped himself on the turf and was immediately substituted.
But given he was on four yellow cards and one away from suspension, many believe it was genius thinking from Aspas.
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He recognised he was likely going to miss Celta's next game anyway and so his yellow cards tally will refresh after the Mallorca clash.
Aspas is Celta's all-time record goalscorer, with 171 goals in 393 appearances.
Even at 34, Aspas is massively important to Celta and the club will be hoping it is only just the one game he is sidelined for.
Last month, Real Madrid looked to be flirting with the idea of a deliberate caution when they beat Sheriff 3-0 away from home.
During celebrations for the third goal, Casemiro looked to have asked manager Carlo Ancelotti whether he should pick up a yellow that would see his record cleaned for the knockout stages.
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Ancelotti said "No", however and Casemiro ended up being subbed for Antonio Blanco.
Featured Image Credit: Image: Premier LeagueTopics: Celta Vigo, La Liga
