Micah Richards says that Nottingham Forest forward Brennan Johnson was wrongly booked for diving during Saturday's draw with Wolves.
The Welsh attacker went to the ground in the box during the second half after dribbling past defender Toti Gomes. Referee Chris Kavanagh did not point to the spot, however, instead choosing to show Johnson a yellow card for simulation.
The decision was one of two key flashpoints in an ill-tempered game between two teams battling against relegation from the Premier League. Richards felt that the incident may not have been worth of a penalty, but believes the 21-year-old was harshly punished.
READ MORE: Brennan Johnson reacts to Wolves spitting incident
SEE ALSO: Marinakis should look deeper than Forest result amid clear Cooper stance
"I don't understand why he's been booked for diving here," the former Manchester City full-back said on BBC Match of the Day. "The referees (as highlighted) on the show tonight have been brilliant, but I think they got this one wrong.
"He trips on his own foot, but Toti clips him as well. It might not be enough for a penalty, but he's certainly not dived."
The other big incident of the game also involved Johnson. The Forest star appeared to suggest that Wolves player Daniel Podence spat in his direction late in the second half.
Video assistant referee Neil Swarbrick looked at the alleged infraction, but concluded that there was not sufficient evidence to punish the Portuguese international. The Football Association are now looking into it to decide if retrospective action should be taken.
"[Podence] was being coy about it," Richards said of the incident. "VAR did look at it but I don't think there's conclusive evidence."
Match of the Day presenter Mark Chapman chimed in, saying: "We've looked at it and looked at it, and you can't see any evidence and that's what VAR say. It would be considered violent conduct, but they can't actually see anything come out of his mouth."
"Well, you can't argue with that, can you?" responded pundit and former Newcastle United striker Alan Shearer.
READ NEXT:
- 'Brilliant' Johnson compared to Arsenal stars after Forest exploits
- Daniel Podence makes Nottingham Forest decisions claim
- Cooper makes 'ill-discipline' comment about Wolves after tempers flared
- Cooper delivers verdict on draw amid Forest 'frustration'
- Forest selection decision explained amid mixed injury news
