Pablo Martínez injured after Guido Rodríguez challenge in derby | OneFootball

Miguel Ángel Ortiz Arias’s refereeing was questioned after a heavy challenge by Guido Rodríguez on Pablo Martínez, a late tackle from behind that forced the Levante No 10 off in the 78th minute after several minutes in pain.

The Levante captain has a sprain of the medial collateral ligament in his left knee, and although Rodríguez’s right knee bent his left ankle, the ankle is not affected. According to Ser Deportivos Valencia, he will be out for approximately one and a half months.

The Valencia No 2 was not shown a yellow card for an incident that, in interpretative terms, bordered on a red.

His absence is a significant setback for a Levante side who, after defeat in the derby against Valencia, are living their most critical spell of the season.

Luís Castro has revitalised the midfielder by restoring him to the centre and giving him licence to roam, with leadership duties and set pieces among his tasks.

Castro said Martínez is very important to them and hopes not to lose him for the important matches ahead. It is a clear blow for Levante, and there is frustration that the officials did not protect the player or act accordingly.

Source: Superdeporte