In recent years, football fans have grown accustomed to heated debates over handballs, offsides, and the ever-controversial VAR. But now, a new and unexpected issue is sparking controversy on the pitch: hair pulling.

This past weekend, Sunderland defender Dan Ballard became the third player this season to be sent off for pulling an opponent's hair during a tense 1-1 draw against already-relegated Wolves. Initially, referee Paul Tierney let the incident slide, but after a VAR review, he was urged to check the pitchside monitor—and ultimately brandished a red card.

As Sunderland fans chanted, "This isn't football," Ballard joined an unwanted list that includes Everton's Michael Keane and Manchester United's Lisandro Martinez, both of whom received red cards for similar offenses this season. Notably, both Everton and Manchester United failed in their appeals to overturn the red cards and the subsequent three-game bans, suggesting Ballard and Sunderland face an uphill battle if they choose to challenge the decision.

The controversy has even reached the Match of the Day studio, where former Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney voiced his frustration: "I can't believe I'm on Match of the Day talking about players being sent off for hair pulling. It is ridiculous. The law has to change."

Former Manchester City goalkeeper Joe Hart offered a different perspective, defending Ballard's actions. "I don't think Dan Ballard is going for his hair—he is trying to get hold of the striker," Hart explained. "According to the law, that is a red card. But do you want a player being sent off for violent conduct for that? It is the physical nature of the sport, people trying to get hold of their opponent, so it doesn't make any sense."

With three red cards already this season for hair pulling, the debate is heating up. As players, pundits, and fans alike question whether the law should be adjusted, one thing is clear: this is a conversation that's far from over.