Everton
(Credit: Sky Sports/Imago)
Keith Hackett
Wed 12 March 2025 12:10, UK
Keith Hackett has called out Howard Webb after he tried to defend VAR following the controversy in Everton’s draw against Manchester United.
The Toffees drew 2-2 with David Moyes’ former side at Goodison Park on 22 February, but it was a clear tug on Ashley Young in the final seconds that caused outrage.
Andy Madeley initially gave the penalty after a tug from Matthijs De Light, but VAR recommended it was overturned despite limited footage being used, something Webb believes would make no difference in making what he thought was the right decision.
Ashley Young everton
Everton defender Ashley Young [Credit: Imago]
Webb not fit for purpose in Premier League
Speaking exclusively to Goodison News, Hackett cannot believe that Webb has tried to defend the outcome of the incident with Young.
The ex-FIFA referee and PGMOL chief was stunned, admitting that his role is to admit and learn from such clear errors in the Premier League.
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“I am totally confused that a penalty kick that should have been awarded was not the outcome,” Hackett said.
“Therefore, the referee and VAR were wrong. How can Webb state they got the decision correct when De Ligt committed the offence?
“Given that referees are human, they will make mistakes. The important role of Webb having been in that position is to recognise errors, admit and learn from them.
“De Ligt was the offender, it was a clear holding offence which should have been recognised and penalised with a penalty kick.
“This failure to recognise and deal appropriately with them issues is not the way to advance the cause of refereeing.”
Everton
David Moyes (Credit: Imago)
Everton thankfully safe in the Premier League
Thankfully, since Moyes’ arrival back on Merseyside, Everton have cantered away from relegation trouble and are nearly confirmed to avoid the drop.
If that wasn’t the case, and this penalty decision was overturned in that scenario, there would have been chaos break loose from all angles.
Premier League Played GD Points
14. Man United 28 -6 34
15. Everton 28 -4 33
Premier League table
Manchester United need all the help they can get right now, it seems, with Everton closing in on their position each week despite being miles behind only weeks ago.
As for Webb, if comments like this continue to come out, it will not be long until he loses complete confidence from everyone in the Premier League.
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