The Premier League have issued a statement explaining why Noni Madueke was not sent off in Arsenal’s win over Liverpool.
As the huge Premier League showdown at Anfield entered its closing stages on Sunday afternoon, Madueke clashed with Alexis Mac Allister after the Liverpool midfielder had fouled Martin Odegaard.
While the Gunners were awarded a free-kick on the edge of their own box, Mac Allister was not happy with the decision and had words with Odegaard – who was on the floor – and appeared to tap the Arsenal captain on the head.
Madueke then came rushing over and leaned his head into Mac Allister as the two players came face-to-face, thus risking a potential red card for violent conduct.
Interestingly, the Arsenal winger was already on a yellow card but referee Andy Madley did not punish Madueke, instead showing a yellow card to Mac Allister and Jurrien Timber.
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The Premier League’s match centre have now confirmed that Madueke avoided a red card because his action was not considered aggressive or violent.
According to The Standard, the statement reads: “The referee’s call of no violent conduct by Madueke on Mac Allister was checked and confirmed by VAR.
“VAR: “All of the situations have been checked and cleared. There is some contact as Madueke and Mac Allister square-up. In my opinion, it’s not forceful, not violent, not brutal”.”
Gary Neville, who was on co-commentary duty for Sky Sports, slammed the Liverpool midfielder for going down far too easily and praised the VAR officials for not advising the referee to produce a red card.
“Well done to VAR because they’re recognised that Mac Alliser going down is embarrassing,” Neville said.
“He said that, but in a posher way.”
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