VAR Controversy During Liverpool’s Trip to Tottenham: Darren England Will Not Take Charge of Reds Game This Season
The failure to award Luis Diaz’s legitimate goal during Liverpool’s trip to Tottenham has been a major talking point since Saturday night. The Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL) have since taken Darren England, the lead VAR responsible for the offside controversy, and assistant VAR Dan Cook out of the spotlight.
Incredibly, the Telegraph now reports that the former will not take charge of any Reds game this season. The 37-year-old will not be sacked for his part in what is one of the biggest VAR controversies, as he “retains the backing” from chief refereeing officer Howard Webb.
The Telegraph’s line is that “it is unlikely that England will be in charge of Liverpool as a referee or VAR any time soon,” which was a move that former PGMOL chief Mike Riley deployed during his tenure. It is a significant development, but one that does ensure there are to be no further incidents involving the two parties after what is to, hopefully, prove a defining moment for VAR and its procedures.
VAR Audio of Luis Diaz Offside Decision Released
The audio between the officials was released on Tuesday and depicts a chaotic communication process that showed it took a replay operator to point out the mistake after the goal failed to be awarded. England informed on-field referee Simon Hooper of “check complete” after going through the quick offside process, but in doing so confirmed the on-field decision of offside.
Jurgen Klopp’s Response
Jurgen Klopp has since spoken on the matter and acknowledged it was a “mistake” but that “common sense” should have prevailed to find a solution seconds after they realised what had happened. The manager gave his personal opinion that a “replay would be the right decision” but knows there are plenty of counter arguments to it.
Conclusion
The decision to remove Darren England from officiating any more Liverpool games this season is a significant development in the wake of the VAR controversy during the Reds’ trip to Tottenham. The audio released between the officials revealed a chaotic communication process and Jurgen Klopp has since acknowledged it was a “mistake” but that “common sense” should have prevailed to find a solution seconds after they realised what had happened.
The move should ensure there are to be no further incidents involving the two parties after what is to, hopefully, prove a defining moment for VAR and its procedures.