Villa boss Alex McLeish was furious with the decision he labelled a “guess” which left his side with 10 men for 55 minutes of the clash which they were leading, before losing 2-1.

Assistant referee Darren Cann waved his flag furiously after the alleged off-the-ball incident between Herd and Jonas Olsson which saw main official Phil Dowd show the Aussie a red card.

McLeish confirmed to Sky Sports News that the club would be appealing the red card to ensure the 22-year-old avoids suspension for the offence.

"Absolutely. We don't think there's any doubt about it. Looking at all the pictures again, Chris has done nothing wrong, it's a poor decision on the day by the official,” McLeish said.

“These things are not deliberate; he's made an honest mistake. I just think it's a shame he's guessed the decision rather than seeing anything.”

Speaking to the Express & Star, McLeish added: McLeish said: “We will see what the outcome is. The slow-motion replay indicated that Chris was extracting his foot from Olsson’s grasp. I just could not see a stamp in that situation.”

Perth-born Herd was making just his second start for Villa this season and first since late August, having made seven appearances in all competitions last term.