Liverpool’s Manager Slot Pleased to See PGMOL Recognise Errors Following Tarkowski Tackle

Liverpool manager Arne Slot expressed his satisfaction at the PGMOL’s admission that it was a mistake not to send off Everton’s James Tarkowski during Wednesday’s derby, noting that errors are a common occurrence in the Premier League.

In Liverpool’s narrow 1-0 triumph, Tarkowski contested the ball with Alexis Mac Allister but followed through with his studs, striking the Argentine midfielder directly on the calf. Despite this, Tarkowski only received a yellow card, and VAR did not step in.

Commentators and former referees were united in their belief that this warranted a red card, and during Thursday’s press conference, Slot was informed that the Professional Game Match Officials Limited had conceded that Tarkowski should have been sent off for serious foul play.

Referee Sam Barrott deemed the challenge reckless, and after a VAR review, it was concluded that issuing a yellow card did not constitute a clear and obvious error. Nevertheless, PGMOL opined that a review should have been suggested, leading to an overturn of the original decision.

“It’s always positive when they recognise a mistake they’ve made. We all know that errors happen during matches – by us, by me, and by the referees,” Slot told journalists ahead of Sunday’s clash with Fulham.

“It’s good that they acknowledge the error, but it was glaringly obvious. Let’s focus on Sunday,” he added.

The win against Everton in a vibrant Anfield environment restored Liverpool’s 12-point advantage over Arsenal with only eight games remaining. While they seem to have one hand on the Premier League trophy, Slot emphasised that there is still plenty of work ahead in the closing stages of the season.

“Theoretically, many things can happen. We experienced how challenging it is to secure a victory in the Premier League yesterday,” he said. “With eight games left, every match is a test – starting with Fulham, who are enjoying a successful season as well.

“We are not focusing on theories regarding how many points we need; instead, we are concentrating on the challenge presented by Fulham, where we’ll need to perform at our absolute best to secure a positive result.“

Slot also remarked that defenders Trent Alexander-Arnold and Joe Gomez are still a few weeks away from returning, while goalkeeper Alisson remains out due to concussion protocols after picking up an injury while on international duty with Brazil.