Sunderland manager Régis Le Bris has expressed disappointment following Daniel Ballard’s sending off for pulling the hair of Tolu Arokodare during the 1-1 draw against Wolverhampton Wanderers at Molineux Stadium.

Ballard was shown a red card in the first half after pulling the hair of the Super Eagles striker while attempting to challenge for possession.

The dismissal proved costly for Sunderland as Wolves mounted a comeback after the break, with Santiago Bueno scoring the equaliser to cancel out Nordi Mukiele’s opener.

It was also the second time this season that an opponent has been sent off for pulling Arokodare’s hair, following the dismissal of Michael Keane during Everton’s clash against Wolves in January.

Speaking ahead of Sunderland’s upcoming fixture against Manchester United, manager Régis Le Bris expressed frustration with the decision, insisting Ballard had no malicious intent.

“Yes we are (disappointed) because the situation was a bit unclear,” he told reporters during the press conference.

“The Premier League is built around physicality, duels, intensity and I think Ballard tried to grab the shirt and in the duel, unfortunately, long hair got caught and it wasn’t intentional.

“The law is the law and I understand the referee, but at the same time I think the rule is a bit unclear.”

Ballard’s campaign has now effectively come to an end after Sunderland failed in their appeal against the suspension, with the offence carrying a mandatory three-match ban.

Meanwhile, Arokodare will take positives from his contribution as Wolves earned a hard-fought draw in front of their supporters despite their poor run of form. 

The Nigeria international will now look to build on the performance as Wolves aim to finish the season strongly despite their relegation to the Championship. 

Adeyemi Adewale