Villarreal star Alex Baena brutally sent off after lifting shirt to pay emotional tribute to vice president who died

VILLARREAL star Alex Baena was brutally sent off after lifting his shirt to pay an emotional tribute to the club's late vice-president, Jose Manuel Llaneza.

Llaneza, who passed away after a battle with leukemia earlier this week, was one of the driving forces behind Villarreal's growth over the past three decades.

The club has even announced that a space has been set up in the town hall where fans can pay their respects to Llaneza.

Villarreal took on Almeria at home on Sunday and fell behind after 31 minutes.

But the Yellow Submarine got themselves back on level terms through Baena in the second half.

The midfielder, who was already on a booking, lifted his shirt revealing a message of thanks to Llaneza.

But he was shown a second yellow for doing so and was sent off.

And the decision to show a second yellow has left fans fuming.

One said on Twitter: "I know the referee never really had a choice, but this rule needs to be binned."

Another tweeted: "Embarrassing..."

FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS - BEST NEW CUSTOMER OFFERS

Minutes later, enraged Villarreal star Manu Morlanes was also sent off while sat on the substitutes bench.

Going down to ten men didn't deter Villarreal, who pushed for a winner.

And they got their reward in added-time as Nicolas Jackson netted.