During Everton's Premier League clash with Bournemouth on Saturday afternoon, Wayne Rooney was left with a gruesome gash above his left eye after a nasty clash with defender Simon Francis.
As the lofted ball came in from the right hand side, Rooney climbed fairly, but Francis caught the England international with a heavy elbow.
Blood gushed from his eye and Rooney protested to referee Martin Atkinson, but the official failed to recognise the challenge and continued with play.
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Wayne Rooney was furious at the officials as blood poured from his left eye. Images: PA
Nobody could quite believe referee Martin Atkinson's decision to play on at Goodison Park, as Rooney continued his argument throughout the first half.
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The 31-year-old even gestured at the third official, signaling that an elbow was used.
Everton staged a superb comeback after Bournemouth striker Josh King shot off the far post to find the net.
Just nine minutes into the second half, Rooney was brought off for Oumar Niasse, who bagged in mid-week.
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Here's how Twitter reacted to Rooney's injury, as one user suggested that Francis' elbow should receive a three match ban:
Former Premier League referee Graham Poll told BT Sport that Francis' elbow was accidental, claiming that "If a player wants to elbow someone, they clench their fist."
Thoughts?
Let us know in the comments what you thought of Francis' elbow.
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Three match ban? Interesting one.
Featured Image Credit:Topics: Premier League, Everton, bournemouth