{
  "id": 7195947,
  "title": "Shearer defends Awoniyi after Brighton red",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/13/shearer-defends-awoniyi-after-brighton-red",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-09-13T23:30:04.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Punch",
    "slug": "punch",
    "url": "https://punchng.com/shearer-defends-awoniyi-after-brighton-red/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Alan Shearer, the Premier League legend, has come to Taiwo Awoniyi's defense following the Nigerian striker's red card during Brighton's 5-0 thrashing of Coventry City at the CBS Arena on Sunday. The 42-year-old striker was sent off in the second half for an elbow that connected with Brighton defender Maxim de Cuyper, leaving Coventry City without a goal in four consecutive games. Shearer questioned the severity of the red card, suggesting that two players competing for the ball should not automatically warrant violent conduct. He argued that the referee should have given Awoniyi a chance to be reviewed via VAR before making a final decision. Shearer also questioned the lack of an immediate red card, expressing confusion over the referees' reluctance to review the incident thoroughly.",
  "summary": "Premier League legend Alan Shearer has defended Nigerian striker Taiwo Awoniyi, questioning the decision to show him a straight red card against Brighton. Read More: https://punchng.com/shearer-defends-awoniyi-after-brighton-red/",
  "key_points": [
    "Alan Shearer defends Taiwo Awoniyi after red card.",
    "Awoniyi sent off for elbow to Maxim de Cuyper.",
    "Shearer questions severity of red card and VAR review."
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 2,
    "also_reported_by": [
      {
        "outlet": "Punch Nigeria",
        "title": "Shearer defends Awoniyi after Brighton red",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/13/shearer-defends-awoniyi-after-brighton-red-7198592",
        "published": "2026-09-13T23:46:04.000Z"
      }
    ]
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}