Many soccer enthusiasts recognize Ian Wright as one of the amiable figures in English football; however, even those considered “nice guys” can reveal a darker side. This facet of Wright’s personality was laid bare in May 1999 during a match where, playing for West Ham, he was sent off in a 5-1 home defeat against Leeds.
Referee Rob Harris faced criticism for dismissing three West Ham players at Upton Park, but it was Wright, the former Arsenal star, who exhibited the most extreme reaction to the controversy. Reflecting on the incident in an interview with Gary Neville, Roy Keane, and Jill Scott on The Overlap, Wright recounted the circumstances.
He described the red card incident against Leeds, emphasizing that he believed the challenge on Ian Harte was not as severe as the reaction suggested. Wright admitted feeling wronged, losing his composure, and engaging in a heated exchange with the referee, eventually chasing him—an action he acknowledged as a serious mistake.
While his teammates prevented further on-field confrontation, the real outburst occurred behind the scenes at Upton Park. Unable to confront the referee directly, Wright vented his emotions by kicking in the referee’s door and causing significant damage to the room.
This impulsive act marked one of his last contributions to West Ham, as he was later loaned to Nottingham Forest before ultimately joining Celtic. His departure from the Premier League, unfortunately, did not conclude in the dignified manner he might have desired.
In a poignant moment, his colleague and friend Roy Keane consoled him, understanding the red mist’s descent all too well. Despite Keane’s own history of seven Premier League red cards and a total of 12 reds overall—tying the English football record—Wright’s explosive reaction in east London surpassed even the experiences of the Manchester United icon.
The aftermath of the incident also likely involved financial consequences for Wright, as he departed West Ham amidst the need for repairs resulting from his destructive outburst.
Arsenal performance and stats
Arsenal is currently 4th in the Premier League with 24 points.
In the last 11 games, it has won 7 times, drawn 3 times, and lost once. In its last match, Arsenal lost 1-0 against Newcastle United.
It has a positive goal difference after scoring 23 goals and conceding 9.
Arsenal will play the next match in Premier League against Burnley on Saturday 11th of November in London. The prediction is Arsenal winning the match.
Crystal Palace performance and stats
Crystal Palace is currently 11th in the Premier League with 15 points.
In the last 11 games, it has won 4 times, drawn 3 times, and lost 4 times. In its last match, Crystal Palace won 0-2 against Burnley.
It has a negative goal difference after scoring 10 goals and conceding 13.
Crystal Palace will play the next match in Premier League against Everton on Saturday 11th of November in London. The prediction is Crystal Palace winning the match.