The Premier League has explained why a penalty was not given against Amad in the early stages of Liverpool's game against Manchester United on Sunday.
The hosts had hoped to earn a spot-kick in the 18th minute when a Cody Gakpo cross was blocked by Amad's arm. While it was a significant deflection off the player's outstretched arm, the short distance the ball travelled proved significant in a penalty not being given.
Referee Michael Oliver felt it was not a foul and that decision was upheld by VAR. Writing on its Match Centre account on X, the Premier League said: "The referee’s call of no penalty was checked and confirmed by VAR – with it deemed that Amad’s arm was in a natural and justifiable position."
That was one of two controversial decisions in the first half of the game at Anfield.
United led 1-0 at the break courtesy of Bryan Mbuemo's right-footed strike in front of the Kop End after just one minute. However, that should not have stood given Alexis Mac Allister was suffering with a head injury at the time.
Play should have been stopped, but Oliver did not spot the Argentinian lying prone on the turf after he collided with Virgil van Dijk.
Alexis Mac Allister receives treatment on the ground
Manchester United's opening goal against Liverpool was shrouded in controversy after Alexis Mac Allister was suffering with a head injury in the build-up
Much like the Amad incident, Arne Slot complained about the decision from the sidelines, however, with no foul committed, VAR could not overrule the decision. Ultimately, it came down to Oliver's on-field judgement.
After receiving some on-field treatment, Mac Allister returned to play sporting protective headwear.
The frustrating moment was the nadir of a disappointing first period for Liverpool. United coud have extended their lead with several chances in the opening 45 minutes, the biggest of which fell to Bruno Fernandes.
The United captain skewed his effort wide and failed to capitalize on Liverpool's shaky defensive display.
Meanwhile, the closest Liverpool came was via a Gakpo effort that flicked off the crossbar. Alexander Isak also saw a big chance denied by Senne Lammens.