William Saliba appeared to foul Thierno Barry
William Saliba appeared to foul Thierno Barry
The Premier League has issued an explanation after Everton were left furious with the decision not to award a penalty for William Saliba's challenge on Thierno Barry. The centre-back appeared to kick Barry's foot inside the area, but the home side were not awarded a spot-kick.
The incident came after 58 minutes of the Premier League game on Saturday night as Saliba and Barry went for a bouncing ball on the edge of the box.
The Everton striker went down clutching his foot and appealing for a penalty, with also protesting to referee Samuel Barrott, but the home side did not get the decision.
The Match Centre wrote: "The referee’s call of no penalty to was checked and confirmed by VAR – with it deemed the contact from Saliba on Barry wasn’t sufficient for a penalty."
[
Arne Slot gives update on Alexander Isak injury after Liverpool striker hobbled off](https://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/news/liverpool-slot-alexander-isak-injury-36435432)
The Gunners were lucky to get away with it, according to ex-Arsenal player Alan Smith. "He's a little fortunate," Smith said on co-commentary for . "He did kick Barry's foot. It happens so often. One player gets there first and the other kicks their foot."
Everton were unhappy with the decision, which was confirmed by VAR Michael Salisbury, with manager remonstrating with the fourth official on the touchline.
To make matters worse, Arsenal led 1-0 at that point following a VAR decision which went in their favour. Viktor Gyokeres scored in the 27th minute from the penalty spot after Jake O'Brien was penalised for handball inside the area.
David Moyes angry
David Moyes was furious with the decision not to award Everton a spot-kick
The Everton defender handled the ball with both hands while trying to defend a corner. The VAR raised the incident with on-field referee Barrott, who consulted the pitchside monitor and pointed to the spot.
The Premier League Match Centre wrote: "After VAR review, the referee overturned the original decision of no penalty to Arsenal. Referee announcement: 'After review, Everton No.15 commits a handball offence. My final decision will be penalty kick.'"
and receive your daily dose of content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you're curious, you can read our