World Cup 2010: Xabi Alonso slams Nigel De Jong tackle

De Jong sees yellow for 'Kung-Fu' tackle

Spain midfielder Xabi Alonso has called Nigel de Jong's 'Kung Fu' kick on him in Sunday's World Cup final "one of the worst tackles" he has received.

Netherlands midfielder De Jong planted his studs into Alonso's chest, leaving the Real Madrid star needing treatment before he was able to continue playing.

Alonso, 28, was in pain long after the final whistle of a bad-tempered game and fears he might have broken a rib.

"It was one of the worst tackles I have ever suffered," said Alonso.

Even Manchester City star De Jong has accepted that he was fortunate not to be sent off by English referee Howard Webb.

The 25-year-old City man only received a yellow card for the tackle, which some felt merited more severe punishment.

"It was a tight game, there was respect from both sides and they had to close us down," added former Liverpool star Alonso.

606: DEBATE Nigel de Jong should've been sent off for that karate kick on Alonso and all their bookings were deserved Telcontar

"But that challenge was really hard. It was one of the most painful tackles in my life and it was hard to play on.

"I have probably broken a rib, although I am not too worried about that."

Webb's performance in Sunday's final, which Spain won 1-0 thanks to Andres Iniesta's extra-time winner, has been widely criticised.

However, De Jong has some sympathy with the English official, someone he knows well from the Premier League, and has suggested Fifa should be held to account.

"Nowadays the pressure on the referees is so big," stated De Jong.

"There are so many rules from Fifa telling them what to do.

"It would be easier if they could concentrate on the basics and referee the game.

Meanwhile De Jong and new Manchester City signing, Spain midfielder David Silva, will have to wait until August before they come face-to-face as team-mates.

The pair have been spared from City's three-week pre-season tour of the United States which began at the weekend.

Silva, 24, was signed from Valencia for an undisclosed on 30 June. He appeared twice for Spain during their World Cup campaign but did not feature in the final.

Highlights - Netherlands 0-1 Spain