Lille considering legal action after Santos injury

Lille football club is contemplating legal action following a knee injury sustained by defender Tiago Santos during a match against Le Havre. The incident occurred on Saturday when Santos was tackled by Le Havre midfielder Amir Richardson in the first half of Lille's 1-0 victory. While the challenge was deemed a foul, Richardson did not receive a yellow or red card, despite the tackle being from behind, uncontrolled, and dangerous.

Consequently, Santos ruptured his anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and suffered a meniscal tear in his right knee after being carried off on a stretcher.

Lille has requested the league to refer the incident to its disciplinary panel, arguing that the tackle should have warranted a red card. The club believes the circumstances surrounding the injury and the lack of sanction raise serious questions. Lille's statement emphasizes the seriousness of the situation, as star player Luis Enrique faces an uncertain recovery period, potentially sidelining him for several months.

LOSC has also referred the matter to the French Football Federation and the Professional Football League for an examination of the handling of the situation by the refereeing team and video assistance.

Le Havre and Richardson have expressed their support for Santos in his recovery, but they maintain their backing of the referee's decision and the video assistant referee's assessment. They question Lille's decision to pursue legal action after the fact, arguing that such a move falls outside current regulations. Le Havre expressed hope for mutual respect among fellow Ligue 1 clubs.

The BBC Sport contacted the LFP for comment, and Lille currently sits second in Ligue 1, preparing to face Arsenal in the Champions League on Tuesday.