It has come to light what the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) told the referee after Cristian Romero’s late challenge on Ederson.
Ange Postecoglou’s side were defeated 2-0 by Manchester City on Tuesday evening, sinking rivals Arsenal in the race for the Premier League title.
During the clash, Ederson was forced off through injury after Romero clattered into his head when making an attempt for the ball.
Many felt it could result in a red card but VAR explained to broadcasters why it wasn’t.
VAR says yellow card was the right outcome
VAR’s rationale for awarding a yellow card was fed through to the Sky Sports commentary team, with Peter Drury confirming why it wasn’t upgraded to a red.
“The VAR are saying that the yellow card is the right outcome here, reckless from Romero. The leading leg misses the goalkeeper but it’s the hip that makes contact with Ederson’s head,” Drury said.
Sky were reluctant to show replays, initially, as Ederson looked in a serious state of injury but once he rose to his feet, it was shown to viewers.
It was a nasty collision but one that Gary Neville felt was accidental, as Romero stretched to try to convert the ball home.
After a concussion check was carried out, Ederson was substituted for Stefan Ortega, which infuriated the Brazillian shot-stopper.
Ederson’s furious reaction to coming off was maybe a signal that he recognises he’ll miss the final-day clash against West Ham United.
Neville agreed with that notion – as if he has sustained a concussion, he’ll likely be out of action for up to three weeks.
So Ortega may make only his fifth league start of the season.
