Italy teammate defends Pellegrini after red card mess: ‘Did well against Belgium’ | OneFootball

Davide Frattesi has come to the defence of his Italy teammate Lorenzo Pellegrini, who came under criticism after receiving a first-half red card while Italy were two goals up in their eventual 2-2 draw with Belgium on Thursday, insisting that the Roma captain ‘did well’ before his sending off.

It has been a rough few months for Pellegrini, who is without a goal from open play in Serie A since February. Questions have been asked of his long-term future with the national team, while Roma do not seem massively keen on extending his rather large contract.

Frattesi defends Italy colleague Pellegrini after red card criticism

Frattesi insists that Pellegrini is a ‘great person’, who is unfortunate to have come under this level of criticism. He also explained that he played well against Belgium before receiving his marching orders.

“I’m really sorry to see it, Lorenzo is a great person and a strong footballer,” Frattesi said during his press conference on Saturday.

“I watch Roma’s games and when he comes here, he seems like a different person.

“I thought he did well against Belgium. I think that a captain like him, balanced and mindful of others, should be someone who is held onto. It’s not an easy time for him, it’s not easy to step out infront of 60,000 people booing you. I hope he gets out of this situation, he’s a really great person.”

Pellegrini has since returned to training with Roma, and has been replaced in the Italy squad by Atalanta forward Nicolo Zaniolo.