Former Premier League referee Mike Dean has shared his perspective on a contentious late incident in the 1-1 draw between Manchester City and Liverpool. According to Dean, Manchester City’s Jeremy Doku was “very fortunate” not to concede a penalty in the dying moments of the match at Anfield. The incident involved Doku making contact with Liverpool’s Alexis Mac Allister in the chest. Despite strong protests from Liverpool players, referee Michael Oliver dismissed the appeals, and VAR upheld the decision.
Dean emphasized the need for closer scrutiny of Doku’s challenge on Mac Allister, suggesting that upon initial observation, it appeared Doku failed to make contact with the ball and instead collided with his opponent’s chest.
“It’s a Penalty” – Mike Dean reacts to Liverpool being robbed
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Dean commented, “For me, it could be a penalty. It’s a massive decision by the VAR; he’s got a tiny touch on the ball with the follow-through full on the ribcage.”
Former Manchester United captain Gary Neville echoed Dean’s sentiments, describing Doku as a “lucky boy” as he analyzed replays of the incident on Sky Sports.
Dean’s assessment contributes to the ongoing debate surrounding VAR decisions in Premier League matches.