Referees’ Chief Howard Webb Believes Liverpool Should Have Been Awarded Penalty Against Arsenal

According to Howard Webb, the chief of referees, Liverpool should have been awarded a penalty during their 1-1 draw against Arsenal last month. The incident in question involved Martin Odegaard and a handball. The decision not to award the penalty was highly contentious, with Jurgen Klopp expressing his confusion over the call.

Controversial Incident Mars Match

The match between Liverpool and Arsenal ended in a 1-1 draw, with Mohamed Salah scoring to cancel out Gabriel Magalhaes’ early opener. However, it was the incident involving Odegaard that stole the headlines. Replays showed Odegaard slipping and handling the ball after a touch from Salah. Referee Chris Kavanagh initially chose not to award a penalty, but the decision was later confirmed by the video assistant referee (VAR).

Audio Reveals VAR Process

The Match Officials Mic’d Up show has released audio of the VAR process from the match, with Kavanagh heard saying, “No, his hand’s on the floor,” as Liverpool players appealed for a penalty. However, Howard Webb, a former Premier League referee, believes that Odegaard gained a significant advantage and that the wrong call was made. Webb stated that Odegaard intentionally brought his arm back towards his body, resulting in a clear advantage.

Opinions on the Decision

Webb’s opinion aligns with that of ex-Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher, who believed that Liverpool should have been awarded a penalty. Carragher stated that Odegaard was fortunate not to be penalized and that once the referee does not give a penalty, it is unlikely for the VAR to overturn the decision.

Conclusion

The controversy surrounding the penalty decision in the Liverpool vs. Arsenal match continues to be a topic of discussion. Both Howard Webb and Jamie Carragher believe that Liverpool should have been awarded a penalty for Odegaard’s handball. The incident highlights the ongoing debate surrounding the use of VAR in football.

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