Quote: vastman "Yep, but that wasn't a case in point IMHO.'"
Sorry for the late reply. I think when it comes to stuff like this I'm reminded of the time when Paul Harrogan did a similar thing to Ian Lucas which led to the citing of players in internationals for such offences. The tackle ended Lucas' career just as he was starting to really come of age. Ended his career, his schoolboy dreams, supporters hopes and probably his future income aspirations.
It's one thing somebody throwing a punch at you and you fighting back but a swinging arm is not only an attempt to injure the opponent it is always one where the attacker knows the individual has little chance to respond or defend themselves (they are effectively prone). I would say you could argue it's even more willful and deliberate than a punch.