Mikel Arteta explains Max Dowman red card reaction at Arsenal press conference
Mikel Arteta explains Max Dowman red card reaction at Arsenal press conference
While the Gunners were awarded a free-kick on the edge of their own box, Mac Allister was not happy with the decision and had words with Odegaard - who was on the floor - and appeared to tap the Arsenal captain on the head.
Madueke then came rushing over and leaned his head into Mac Allister as the two players came face-to-face, thus risking a potential red card for violent conduct.
Interestingly, the Arsenal winger was already on a yellow card but referee Andy Madley did not punish Madueke, instead showing a yellow card to Mac Allister and Jurrien Timber.
The Premier League’s match centre have now confirmed that Madueke avoided a red card because his action was not considered aggressive or violent.
A statement reads: “The referee’s call of no violent conduct by Madueke on Mac Allister was checked and confirmed by VAR.
“VAR: “All of the situations have been checked and cleared. There is some contact as Madueke and Mac Allister square-up. In my opinion, it's not forceful, not violent, not brutal”.”
Gary Neville, who was on co-commentary duty for Sky Sports, slammed the Liverpool midfielder for going down far too easily and praised the VAR officials for not advising the referee to produce a red card.
"Well done to VAR because they're recognised that Mac Alliser going down is embarrassing,” Neville said.