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<\/p>\nFootball fans have a theory that ex-Liverpool star David Ayala wants Christmas off work after he picked up a second red card in two games. <\/p>\n
The former Liverpool defender, 33, who had a two year stay on Merseyside a decade ago joined Rotherham as a free agent in October. In just his sixth game for his new club earlier this month, Ayala was sent off against Swansea.<\/p>\n
And after serving his suspension, Ayala returned to the starting squad, only to be sent off again against Plymouth. Ayala had been booked after a clash of heads when he inexplicably tried to stop a long ball with his hands.<\/p>\n
READ MORE: Roy Keane slams 'arrogant' Virgil van Dijk and clashes with Daniel Sturridge over 'disrespect'<\/b><\/p>\n
READ MORE: Mike Dean trolls Gary Neville with brutal putdown after Diogo Dalot's crazy red card<\/b><\/p>\nJoin the Daily Star's WhatsApp for the sexiest headlines, showbiz gossip and lots more<\/h3>\n
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"For those thinking to themselves, it'll be blatant to get Christmas off, it's more blatant than you can ever imagine haha," one fan joked. While a second replied: "Not even trying to hide that he wants Christmas off!"<\/p>\n
"Boro fans will tell you Ayala never plays over Christmas or New Year," a third joked. And another added: "A red card or injury to miss the Christmas fixtures is as regular as Neymar when his sister's birthday comes around…"<\/p>\n
What do you think of Daniel Ayala's red card? Let us know in the comments section<\/i> <\/b><\/p>\n
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However, Ayala has only ever been sent off once before Christmas in his career. In 2012-13, then playing for Nottingham Forest, Ayala again got two yellows in a 2-0 defeat at Watford on December 22.<\/p>\n
While in the 16\/17 season, now at Middlesborough, Ayala missed the holiday period out with an injury.<\/p>\n
Ayala will miss their next game, a trip to Championship leaders Leicester on December 23 – but he could be available for Boxing Day.<\/p>\n