On Sunday, Liverpool welcomed their historic rivals Manchester United in what was described as one of the most highly-anticipated matches of the Premier League season at Anfield. ..Continue Reading
Before kick-off, much of the attention centered on Ruben Amorim’s lineup, as striker Benjamin Sesko was named among the substitutes despite scoring in both of his past two appearances.
However, the United boss quickly silenced critics when his team went ahead just minutes into the game through a goal from winger Bryan Mbeumo.
Still, many supporters questioned why the match wasn’t paused moments before the goal, as Liverpool’s Alexis Mac Allister sustained a clear head injury during the build-up — and now the reasoning has emerged.
Just seconds before Mbeumo broke through Liverpool’s defense and netted the goal that gives his side a lead at half-time, Mac Allister appeared to be struck unintentionally by Virgil van Dijk’s elbow while contesting the ball with the United attacker.
According to the Premier League’s current rules, referees are permitted to stop play for suspected head injuries, but Michael Oliver allowed the game to continue, stating he did not see the injury happen.
After the incident, the Argentine midfielder was treated on the field, while Liverpool manager Arne Slot voiced his concerns to the fourth official on the sidelines.
Fortunately for Liverpool fans, Mac Allister was able to resume play following a medical evaluation and returned wearing protective headgear.
Nonetheless, fans circulated images from the incident, insisting that Oliver did witness the injury but chose not to intervene.
Reacting to the moment, one fan wrote: “Ref “didn’t see” the fact Mac Allister had a head injury despite being on the floor holding his head.”
Another commented: “If Michael Oliver can’t see a player lay on the floor holding his head, after being clattered at the point of the ball, he shouldn’t be allowed to referee.”
The Athletic’s James Pearce also weighed in, writing: “Wow, Michael Oliver with a strong contender for worst decision of the season. Mac Allister brought down, FK goes the other way.”
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