Liverpool want VAR improvement, not Tottenham replay

Liverpool want the VAR system to improve following loss to Tottenham

Liverpool are not pushing for a replayed match following the VAR controversy in their loss to Tottenham. Rather, their sharp criticism aims to spur reforms so such errors never recur.

In a Twitter post, journalist David Lynch revealed that instead of pushing for a replay, the Reds are seeking a change in the PGMOL’s protocols so that no other team has to suffer a similar fate.

Liverpool’s stern statement responded to their disallowed goal due to an admitted ‘significant human error’ VAR blunder. While aggrieved, their goal is to prompt procedural improvements, not overturn the result.

Jurgen Klopp's Liverpool seek an ultimate change in VAR protocols. — Jurgen Klopp’s Liverpool seek an ultimate change in VAR protocols. (Photo by CLIVE ROSE/POOL/AFP via Getty Images)

In the current circumstances, a replay was never plausible. But Liverpool hope that shining a light on this incompetence forces a change. They do not seek special treatment, just basic competence and consistency.

Howard Webb’s PGMOL is currently under huge criticism following mistakes from VAR operators Darren England and Dan Cook that disallowed Luis Diaz‘s goal in Liverpool’s 2-1 loss to Spurs.

A crucial mistake from the officials resulted in our first loss of the season and failure to capitalise on Manchester City’s 2-1 loss against Wolves. However, England and Cook have been punished accordingly. They have been stood down from duty from their following two matches.

Luis Diaz had his goal wrongly disallowed for offside following mistake from VAR operators.

The fact is all clubs and fans should deserve the best from officials who influence outcomes. Liverpool’s statement asserted as much while calling for change, not retribution or replay.

It also came to light that England and Cook were part of a team that was refereeing in UAE 48 hours prior to the Reds clash with Spurs. Hence the following international journey surely had an impact on the two PGMOL employees.

PGMOL must strengthen protocols and transparency regarding VAR to restore trust. Liverpool’s anger stems from the lack of faith such unaddressed mistakes create, not simply losing to Spurs.