Pundits and Liverpool Players Criticize VAR Decision in Arsenal Match

Sky Sports pundits and Liverpool players have voiced their frustration regarding a VAR decision that denied Liverpool a penalty in their recent 1-0 loss to Arsenal. The match, which saw Arsenal's Kai Havertz score the only goal, marked the Gunners' first victory at Anfield in 14 years.

Pundits Jamie Carragher, Ian Wright, and Daniel Sturridge joined Liverpool head coach Andoni Iraola and captain Virgil van Dijk in criticizing the officiating. They highlighted a clear incident in the first half where Liverpool striker Alexander Isak was pulled back by Arsenal defender Jurrien Timber, which they believed warranted a penalty.

Carragher remarked, "One of the best goalscorers in the league is pulled back seven yards out... VAR, do your job." Wright echoed this sentiment, stating, "It's obvious he's pulled his shirt. Why does he need to dive?" He added that he would not have been surprised if a penalty had been awarded.

Sturridge noted that Isak's reaction was not what one would expect in such a situation, suggesting that players often need to exaggerate to draw the referee's attention. He stated, "Unfortunately, he has not fallen over... to me, his reaction is almost like: 'VAR, do your job'."

Iraola admitted that he would advise his players to go down more often to ensure penalties are called, saying, "It's a shame you ask me this question, but honestly, yes, we have to tell them, go down."

Van Dijk also expressed his belief that it was a clear penalty, stating, "We have 50 cameras. Why does he have to complain when there are so many cameras? Everyone has seen it."