The Premier League has released a statement confirming why Liverpool star Andy Robertson was shown a straight red card against Fulham.
After bringing down ex-Liverpool star Harry Wilson, Robertson was given his marching orders in the 16th minute as the Cottagers ace capitalized on his poor ball control and honed in on the Reds' goal.
Referee Tony Harrington had no choice but to send off the 30-year-old defender. This left Liverpool the rest of the first half and the second to try and chase down Fulham, who were already leading 1-0 at Anfield.
"The referee issued a red card to Robertson for a foul on Wilson which denied a goal scoring opportunity. VAR checked to confirm the red card and that Wilson was in an onside position," the Premier League has said, accompanied by a birds-eye view of Wilson being played onside.
However, Liverpool may feel hard done by after Fulham defender Issa Diop escaped a potential red card on Robertson before the Scotland captain was sent off himself. The center-back's challenge in the first minute of the action at Anfield was deemed to be a foul by the referee but only worthy of a yellow card.
VAR then intervened to check for a potential red card before deciding to stick with the original call. The Premier League also released a statement to explain the decision to not send off ex-West Ham ace Diop.
"The referee issued a yellow card to Diop for a challenge on Robertson. VAR checked for a potential red card and confirmed the referee’s call of reckless challenge and yellow card," they said.
Arne Slot's men face a huge uphill battle in the second half
Arne Slot's men face a huge uphill battle in the second half (Image: Getty)
Robertson, a Premier League, Champions League, and multiple-time domestic cup-winning star for Liverpool and ex-manager Jurgen Klopp, will only miss one game as his offense was denying a goal-scoring opportunity. Luckily for the Reds, their next game is an EFL Cup clash with Premier League strugglers Southampton.
He will be available for Liverpool's trip to Tottenham next Sunday. Arne Slot's team is looking to maintain its healthy lead at the top of the Premier League, with both Arsenal and defending champions Manchester City struggling.
Before kickoff against Fulham, Liverpool held a four-point lead over second-place Chelsea and six over Arsenal. Defeat or a draw against Fulham would present the Reds' title rivals with an opportunity to close the gap heading into Christmas and New Year's.