Former Netherlands defender Johnny Heitinga “wanted to attack” Howard Webb after he sent him off in the 2010 World Cup final.
Heitinga started all seven of his side’s matches at the World Cup in South Africa 12 years ago.
He made 87 appearances for his country and was dismissed in extra-time of the Netherlands’ final defeat to Spain.
It was a fiery affair, to say the least.
English referee Webb had a tough game and was greeted with a chorus of boos when he went to receive his medal at the end of the game.
The earliest controversial decision he made was to only show Nigel De Jong a yellow card for the highest of high feet.
Combative midfielder De Jong went studs first straight into Xabi Alonso’s chest in what looked like a finishing move in WWE.
Heitinga was shown a second yellow card in the 19th minute of extra-time with the score at 0-0.
With four minutes left, Andres Iniesta scored the only goal to hand Spain their first World Cup trophy.
Heitinga has now revealed that he has discussed the match and sending off with Webb and also explained how angry he was.
“I’ve spoken with Howard Webb, who refereed that final in 2010, on a number of occasions,” the former Netherlands international told Ladbrokes.
“I talked with him a couple of months after that night, and he told me it was so difficult for him.
“Also, from our side, we were not ourselves; we were nervous. It was difficult for everyone, but especially Howard and the linesmen; nowadays it’s much easier with VAR.
“Of course, I received a red card myself on that night, in extra-time. I was full of emotion in that moment – and walking off that pitch, it just felt like such a long walk. I felt lonely.
“In my eyes, it was an unfair decision; it was very smart from Andres Iniesta for my second booking.
“I’ve played the game at the highest level for many years, and so has he. I touched him on his shoulder; I wasn’t holding onto him or anything like that, and he went down and gave Howard Webb a decision to make.
“I felt really lonely, especially as I had to stay in the dressing room for the rest of the match.
“After the match, I was still upset. I look back now and I’m glad our manager grabbed hold of me, because I wanted to attack Howard Webb. In my eyes, it was an unfair decision he made.
“We played so well with eight minutes to go, you just wonder what we could have done in that time with 11 players on the pitch.”
Former Netherlands defender Heitinga played 129…
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