Pedro Neto avoids Champions League ban over ball boy push

Chelsea winger Pedro Neto has escaped a ban for pushing a ball boy in the first leg of their Champions League round of 16 tie with Paris Saint-Germain. The incident occurred during a frustrating night in the French capital where the Blues were comprehensively beaten 5-2, leaving their European ambitions hanging by a thread.

UEFA has launched a review into Neto’s actions after he reacted angrily late in the match while trying to collect the ball to restart play. Despite the incident, journalist Ben Jacobs reports that the 26-year-old is not expected to receive a suspension and should be available for the return leg at Stamford Bridge.

Neto is fresh for the continental assignment, having sat out the weekend’s disappointing Premier League defeat to Newcastle United due to a separate red card suspension. Chelsea’s preparations have been hit by another hamstring setback for Reece James, who is facing several weeks on the sidelines.

France, Paris

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