Javier Mascherano has leapt to Neymar’s defence, claiming his Barcelona teammate “was kicked 20 times, yet one hand was shown a yellow” on Thursday.
The forward was sent off after Brazil's 1-0 defeat to Colombia at Copa America for kicking the ball at Pablo Armero, before appearing to head-butt an opponent, in turn receiving a provisional one-match ban.
Consequently, the Argentina international believes his Blaugrana colleague was provoked into his moment of madness and that more needs to be done to protect players of his ilk.
“These type of talented players aren’t allowed to play,” he told ESPN.
“The collisions are getting worse in the tournament. It depends on what the referees and organisations want to do.
“We must do more to protect these players. [Neymar was] kicked 20 times, yet one hand was shown a yellow.
“This affects your head. Don’t forget that Neymar is Neymar, but he’s only a boy of 23 years. Brazil have lost a lot [as a result].”
