Chelsea boss defends Cole horror tackle

Chelsea boss Andre Villas-Boas has defended left back Ashley Cole despite a horror challenge on Man Utd forward Javier Hernandez during United's 3-1 victory over the Blues.

Andre Villas-Boas seemed to suggest that Ashley Cole would not have made the challenge had the referees made correct decisions earlier in the game.

Ashley Cole's shocking sliding tackle has left Sir Alex Ferguson sweating for news on the availability of Hernandez for his next game, but replays indicated the challenge could have been much worse.

Andre Villas-Boas defended Cole, saying afterwards: "If it was 0-0 maybe Ashley is a little bit more mentally in control of the situation and doesn't do the red card foul that you mention."