Nelson Semedo was sent off in Wolves’ 2-0 Premier League loss to Liverpool.
Gary O’Neil believes VAR did not need to intervene when Wolverhampton Wanderers were reduced to ten men in their loss to Liverpool.
Jurgen Klopp’s final game as Liverpool manager finished with a 2-0 win over Wolves at Anfield. Alexis MacAllister and Jarell Quansah scored in the first half, making it a great afternoon for the Germans.
Liverpool’s task was made simpler when Wolves’ Nelson Semedo was sent off for a foul on Mac Allister with the game tied at 0-0. Initially, referee Chris Kavanagh handed a yellow card before VAR referee David Cootes intervened. Kavanagh watched the footage on the pitch-side monitor before reversing his decision and dismissing Semedo.
Wolves have suggested that VAR be removed for the start of the 2024-25 season, with a vote to take place in the coming weeks. However, O’Neil, who led the Molineux team to 14th place in the Premier League, is unsure whether the motion would be approved.
Speaking to BBC Sport, O’Neil said: “I believe it was late. Everyone who has played understands that those tackles can happen. The referee has a good view of it, and I do not believe VAR should be engaged. I can not understand why we are so eager to get engaged. That cannot possibly be clear and evident.
“We will have to determine whether to appeal, but that means he will miss three games next season. It’s very disappointing. It’s not about VAR – I’m proud of our performance – but it encapsulates where VAR stands for me.
“They didn’t even pause it in the appropriate spot. I think the officiating was pretty awful, so perhaps it will improve next year.” “I’m not confident that it will be removed. That is not the technology’s fault. This is how the boys use it. Alexis Mac Allister is safe. He’s OK. There’s no reason for that to be red. I’m disappointed for the guys, but we showed incredible character and camaraderie and gave it our all.”
O’Neill was the final opposition manager to face Klopp, who leaves Liverpool after nearly nine years and seven major championships. When asked if it was special to be a part of Klopp’s send-off, the former Reds academy coach replied
“It is not unusual for me to become engaged. I was just looking to go on with my work, but he has done an incredible job for Liverpool Football Club. He has connected the club to the community and instilled genuine confidence in their abilities. He will undoubtedly be missed by both the football club and the league.”
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