-
Emily Keogh
Crystal Palace midfielder Ruesha Littlejohn is expected to receive a significant suspension after being sent off for placing Leicester City’s Hannah Cain in a headlock and taking her to the ground during their League Cup match on Sunday.
The Republic of Ireland international reacted to a prior skirmish between the players during Palace’s 3-0 victory.
In the incident, Littlejohn, who joined Palace in September, pushed Cain slightly before the Wales international retaliated with a push to Littlejohn’s back. Subsequently, the 35-year-old grabbed Cain by the neck and wrestled her down.
It’s unclear if she tripped over another player, but the actions led to her receiving a straight red card.
Both players joined Leicester City in the summer of 2020 as part of the club’s inaugural season in the Women’s Super League after being promoted. Littlejohn made six appearances before leaving the club in January 2021 after one season.
– Vålerenga’s inspiring UWCL story fosters hope for women’s football
– Women’s Champions League: Understanding the new format
– Why Spurs’ record transfer Signe Gaupset is among the best U21 talents
She now faces a possible suspension for violent conduct. Generally, such conduct results in a three-match ban, though the punishment may be more severe if the incident is deemed particularly egregious.
Palace have advanced to the quarterfinals of the League Cup and will learn about their next opponent on Tuesday evening.