French club Lille are evaluating legal options and seeking a formal review after defender Tiago Santos suffered a major knee injury from what they described as an uncontrolled tackle during Saturday's match against Le Havre.
The 24-year-old defender was carried off on a stretcher during the first half of Lille's 1-0 win after rupturing the anterior cruciate ligament and tearing the meniscus in his right knee. Lille stated that Santos will be sidelined for several months.
The injury resulted from a challenge by Le Havre midfielder Amir Richardson. Although the match referee penalised Richardson for a foul, the midfielder was not issued either a yellow or red card. Lille contended that the tackle was committed from behind in a dangerous fashion and warranted an immediate dismissal.
Lille confirmed they have formally petitioned the French Football Federation and the Professional Football League to scrutinise the on-field officiating and the video assistance, while also requesting that the league refer the episode to its disciplinary panel.
"Beyond the injury itself, the circumstances in which it occurred and the lack of sanction raise serious questions for the club," Lille said in a statement. "LOSC is studying the possible remedies and reserves the right to take any legal action to obtain compensation for its damages."
Le Havre issued a response extending support to Santos for his recovery, but firmly backed the judgment of the referee and the video assistant referee. The club also disputed Lille's attempt to sanction Richardson retrospectively, pointing out that such action falls outside current regulations.
"HAC respects all fellow Ligue 1 clubs and expects the same respect in return," Le Havre added. Currently placed second in Ligue 1, Lille are scheduled to meet Arsenal in the Champions League on Tuesday.
