Carlo had to go: Halsey

The official caused a storm of controversy after showing the Italian a red-card for 'violent conduct', when it appeared he had been the victim of a reckless challenge from Boro's Dean Windass.

The incident occurred in the 62nd minute of the clash at Stamford Bridge, when the burly front-man clattered into Cudicini as the keeper attempted to claim a high-ball.

Halsey insisted though that 29-year-old Cudicini retaliated by kneeing Windass as the Boro man lay prostrate on the floor.

"Cudicini kneed Windass in the face, right in front of me," said Halsey.

"I saw it clearly - and I have seen a replay on television and it is conclusive.

"A cross had come in from the right and, in my opinion, Windass challenged the goalkeeper recklessly and I was always going to caution him for that.

"I then sent off Cudicini for violent conduct."

Unsurprisingly Cudicini painted a different picture of the incident, but received his manager's backing as the London club prepare to appeal against the decision.

"I did put my knee up for protection because I thought Windass was going to come at me," explained the former Castel di Sangro keeper.

"When I realised he wasn't, I withdrew it.

"I never touched him and I'm confident we can win our appeal."

Chelsea chief Claudio Ranieri added: "We are sure the video evidence will clear Carlo."