Liverpool is demanding a comprehensive and transparent inquiry into the procedural oversights that led to the incorrect disallowance of Luis Diaz's goal against Tottenham on Saturday. The club is not interested in singling out a specific official but is rather concerned about the PGMOL's characterization of the incident as "a significant human error". This description unfairly places the entire responsibility for the breakdown in adhering to the Laws of the Game solely on the match's VAR, Darren England.
Liverpool is requesting a thorough examination of the process and a definition of the scope for the review. This should cover various aspects, including the selection of the refereeing team, as concerns have been raised about their recent involvement in a game in the United Arab Emirates. Questions surrounding workload, fatigue, and the quality of preparation have been raised. Additionally, the aftermath of an unprecedented error, which has been regarded as the worst in the history of the Premier League, should also be addressed.
The general consensus is that a comprehensive procedural review is necessary, rather than blaming a specific individual. Jurgen Klopp emphasized this in his post-match press conference, stating, "I am confident that whoever made that decision did not do so intentionally."
Liverpool have officially asked the PGMOL for the recorded discussions between the officials in order to gain a better understanding of the incident and why adherence to protocol took precedence over fair play. It is widely recognized among referees that such a significant mistake, which was identified moments after the game resumed, should have resulted in the match being stopped to ensure a correct outcome.
The haste in making the initial decision has raised concerns, considering the emphasis placed on prioritizing accuracy over the speed of reaching a conclusion.
According to a current official interviewed by We News, this is not a matter of subjective judgment but rather an objective, verified goal that was overlooked due to a number of failures. Given the significance of the situation and the number of individuals present in the control room or monitoring the situation, immediate correction should have been implemented, irrespective of standard protocol.
"I have to say there's a question management should answer too, it cannot just be on one person."
Liverpool call for transparency
The timing of when referee Simon Hooper was informed that Diaz's goal should have counted has been a subject of conflicting information.
According to Dermot Gallagher in Ref Watch on We News, he stated, "I have been informed that from the 34th minute until half-time, the referee was not made aware of his mistake."
But it has been reported Hooper was made aware of the mistake shortly after the incident.
According to We' Monday Night Football, Hooper was only told at half-time.
Liverpool regards transparency as crucial. In light of an exceptional officiating circumstance, the club expressed its intention to investigate potential measures. Although they are currently unsure of the exact options, one example includes seeking access to complete audio recordings.
The statement made no mention or indication of a desire to pursue all options. It did not request or suggest a replay of the game.
By referring to "escalation and resolution," Liverpool emphasized that they would not simply accept PGMOL's ambiguous statement regarding a "significant human error" and a review that lacked clear terms of reference.
PGMOL defends midweek UAE assignment
Based on the information about VAR England, his assistant Dan Cook, and fourth official Michael Oliver from Tottenham being involved in Al Ain's triumph over Sharjah 48 hours prior to a significant Premier League match, PGMOL has stated that this is a regular occurrence. The officials returned to London on Friday to make the necessary preparations, as per standard procedure for individuals who have been engaged in international assignments like the Champions League during the middle of the week.
The FA, being a member of UEFA and FIFA, is not required to approve freelance work in other leagues. Additionally, there are notable differences in terms of travel considerations and the perception of referees undertaking high-paying assignments in countries that have connections with current Premier League clubs. The aspects of fatigue, workload, the presence of quality control in preparations, and the potential enhancement of the officiating standard are also subjects of scrutiny.
PGMOL did not respond on the above due to a huge number of incoming requests for comment.
