The Premier League has issued a statement explaining why Noni Madueke was not sent off during Arsenal's win over Liverpool at Anfield on Sunday afternoon.
In the closing stages of the match, Madueke clashed with Alexis Mac Allister after the Liverpool midfielder had fouled Martin Odegaard. Arsenal were awarded a free-kick on the edge of their own box, but Mac Allister was unhappy with the decision and exchanged words with Odegaard, who was on the floor, and appeared to tap the Arsenal captain on the head.
Madueke's clash with Mac Allister
Madueke then rushed over and leaned his head into Mac Allister as the two players came face-to-face, risking a potential red card for violent conduct. The Arsenal winger was already on a yellow card, but referee Andy Madley did not punish him, instead showing yellow cards to Mac Allister and Jurrien Timber.
The Premier League's match centre confirmed that Madueke avoided a red card because his action was not considered aggressive or violent. A statement read: "The referee's call of no violent conduct by Madueke on Mac Allister was checked and confirmed by VAR."
VAR review and reaction
VAR added: "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, on co-commentary duty for Sky Sports, criticised the Liverpool midfielder for going down too easily and praised the VAR officials for not advising the referee to produce a red card. "Well done to VAR because they've recognised that Mac Allister going down is embarrassing," Neville said. "He said that, but in a posher way."
