Crystal Palace Player Faces Possible Suspension Following Controversial Incident
Emily Keogh Nov 25, 2025, 06:41 AM ET
Midfielder Ruesha Littlejohn of Crystal Palace may be facing a significant suspension after receiving a red card for a headlock maneuver on Hannah Cain of Leicester City during their League Cup match on Sunday.
The Republic of Ireland international reacted to a minor clash between the players amidst Palace’s 3-0 victory. Following a slight shove towards Cain, the Leicester player retaliated by pushing Littlejohn. The incident escalated when the 35-year-old grabbed Cain around the neck and brought her to the ground.
It remains uncertain if Littlejohn stumbled over another player during the fall, yet her actions drew a straight red card from the referee.
Both Littlejohn and Cain joined Leicester City in the summer of 2020 just before the club’s inaugural season in the Women’s Super League after gaining promotion. Littlejohn made six appearances before leaving the club in January 2021.
She is now likely to face disciplinary action for violent conduct. Such incidents generally incur a three-match suspension, although the length can be increased based on the severity of the action.
Crystal Palace has advanced to the quarterfinals of the League Cup and will learn about their upcoming opponent on Tuesday evening.
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