Liverpool head coach Andoni Iraola has confirmed he has not asked for an explanation over the penalty decision in Sunday's 1-0 defeat to Arsenal, insisting his focus is on the Champions League match against Fenerbahce.
The debate has continued over the failure to award a spot-kick when Alexander Isak was dragged back by Jurrien Timber in the first half. Speaking immediately after the game, Iraola had said he would be urging his players to go to ground more easily in future, while former striker Daniel Sturridge told Sky Sports that VAR was not 'doing its job'.
No explanation sought
Despite the fallout, Iraola does not want to dwell on the decision. Speaking at Fenerbahce Stadium on Tuesday evening, he said: "No I didn't ask for an explanation and I haven't received an explanation, no."
"I tell you what you I think about the plays but honestly I don't have the time to [do that]. I have been preparing for Fenerbahce. It is just two days between games so I have just been focusing on this game and the opposition and how to prepare the team."
Champions League form
Liverpool have taken well to the Champions League in Iraola's first campaign in the competition. Three straight victories, against Atletico Madrid, LASK and Villarreal, leave them well placed at this stage. Another three points in Istanbul, where the club enjoyed a famous night on May 25, 2005, would put them in a strong position to continue their European run.
Sixteen points have been enough in both seasons of the revamped Champions League to secure a top-eight place and a spot in the knockout stages. With games against Porto, Club Brugge, Inter and Lens to come before the end of January, maximum points against Dirk Kuyt's side on Wednesday night would put Liverpool well on course.
Istanbul memories
Asked about Liverpool's history with Istanbul, Iraola said: "Istanbul is going to be special, it's difficult to find a better night in football - a comeback on such an important night. Tomorrow, it's not going to be easy. It's always difficult to come to Turkey and play and we have to be very ready. They have experienced player who know how to play in this competition. We have to try to kill the confidence and momentum they can have with the supporters."
