Premier League red card rules: How many players do you need to play?

The Premier League clash between Tottenham Hotspur and Chelsea was one of the most contentious Games of the season so far.

Spurs fans were furious after Cristian Romero was dismissed in the first half for a clumsy challenge on Enzo Fernandez. But things got worst for the hosts after the break when Destiny Udogie was given a second booking for scything down Raheem Sterling.

That saw Tottenham reduced to nine men, which left some wondering about the prospect of a suspension of the Game. However league rules stipulate that this would only be an issue is Spurs were to lose another three players, whether through dismissal or injury.

The Football Association’s rules state: “A match may not start or continue if either team has fewer than seven players.”

In the first half alone there were four goals ruled out for offside and no end of controversial decisions. Spurs took the lead through Son Heung-Min, before Cole Palmer equalised from the penalty spot.

In the second half there was more drama as Spur looked to cling on to a draw, despite their two-man disadvantage. After struggling to break down a resilient Spurs defence Chelsea finally the back of the net when Sterling and Nicolas Jackson combined.

Tottenham substitute Eric Dier thought he had found a leveller when he slotted home a brilliant volley, but it was ruled out for a narrow offside call.

More on this story as the Game develops...