Everton put in a valiant display against Liverpool on Wednesday night, and if not for refereeing errors, David Moyes’ side might have walked away with a point.
It’s a rare occurrence, but Everton know what losing feels like again.
After nine games unbeaten in the Premier League, Moyes now needs to pick up the same form and end the season strongly.
Despite the defeat, Moyes was disappointed with referee Sam Barrott, who made some suspect calls, but one specifically with Liverpool’s goal as Luis Diaz was in an offside position.
Jarrad Branthwaite shares the same disappointment and made a bold claim about VAR.
Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images
Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images
Jarrad Branthwaite’s VAR claim in Liverpool vs Everton
It was a frustrating derby for Moyes if anything, as it didn’t quite go the Toffees’ way for once.
Although James Tarkowski avoided a ‘reckless’ red card, the decisions didn’t exactly favour the away side.
Diaz’s involvement in Diogo Jota’s winning goal got brushed under the carpet by VAR, and that’s what Branthwaite is most concerned with.
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Speaking to BBC 5 Live Sport, the Everton centre-back is confused as to why the goal was given despite a VAR review.
“I’ve seen it back, and for me it’s offside,” Branthwaite said.
“I said to the referee are you looking at that incident there?
“So if they’re looking at it and didn’t give it, I don’t really understand.
“What’s Tarky meant to do? You know what I mean?”
READ MORE: James Tarkowski breaks silence on ‘bizarre’ Luis Diaz offside incident after Everton’s loss to Liverpool
Despite Liverpool defeat Branthwaite was solid for Everton once again
Branthwaite is proving week by week why he is one of the most sought-after defenders on the planet.
The 22-year-old is certainly high in demand, as Branthwaite has got interest from Man United, among others.
But this is only one scenario that could happen, as Everton could hand Branthwaite a new contract, which Moyes will want to do after his display in the defeat at Anfield.
Branthwaite’s statistics in Liverpool 1-0 Everton
Minutes played 90
Passing accuracy 68%
Passes into final third 7
Aerial duels won % 67% (2/3)
Clearances 10
Liverpool also happen to have a keen interest in the Everton defender, as fans will hope this wasn’t an audition for Arne Slot.
It would be an extremely controversial move, but with Branthwaite wanting Everton captaincy, he should remain at the club for the long term.