Mohammed Kudus admits social media negativity contributed to red card
LONDON, ENGLAND – OCTOBER 19: Mohammed Kudus of West Ham United clashes with Micky van de Ven of Tottenham Hotspur and is subsequently shown a Red card during the Premier League match between Tottenham Hotspur FC and West Ham United FC at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on October 19, 2024 in London, England. (Photo by Marc Atkins/Getty Images)Ghana midfielder Mohammed Kudus has opened up on how negative social media comments affected his mental state, ultimately contributing to his red card in West Hams match against Tottenham Hotspur.The incident, which initially led to a three-match ban, has now resulted in an extended five-game suspension and a 60,000 fine.Kudus, who scored the opening goal at Tottenhams stadium, was sent off in the 86th minute after clashing with Tottenhams Micky van de Ven.Reflecting on his conduct in an official response to the independent regulatory panel, Kudus admitted that the buildup to the match had been taxing, given he had just come back from a disappointing international break.He captained the Black Stars in a two-game AFCON qualifier series against Sudan, donning Ghanas iconic Number 10 jersey.Ghana played to a goalless draw in the first leg but lost 2-0 in the second under Sudans head coach, James Kwesi Appiah, himself a former Black Stars coach.In his letter to the FA, Kudus expressed his regret, noting that social media negativity had impacted his focus.He reiterated his commitment to being a role model for youth both in the UK and Ghana.West Ham United has confirmed they will not comment further on the incident.
