As Toffees and Reds across Merseyside and beyond look back on the weekend’s fiery and bitter 2-2 draw, the emotions remain just as raw as they were on Saturday.
The footballing world was ablaze with heated reactions, though commentator Adrian Durham’s bold claim that Jordan Pickford should be dropped was one of the boldest and most controversial comments made surrounding the derby.
Twitter:
“Jordan Pickford HAS to be dropped!”
“I don’t think any #EFC fans would disagree.”
“When you come out feet… https://t.co/MfRwO6SzY3 (@talkSPORT)
Despite the feisty entertainment on display in the draw at Goodison Park, one of the darker highlights of the heated fixture was Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford’s reckless and endangering challenge on Virgil van Dijk. The incident placed a notable shadow on the game after it has since been confirmed that van Dijk will need to undergo knee surgery following the last-ditch challenge, prompting the comments.
Controversy and tension are to be expected; they are integral components of any good Merseyside derby, and the latest contest between the Toffees and the Reds was no exception. A 2-2 draw produced an impressive amount of key moments; VAR controversy, reckless challenges, red cards and four formidable goals were some of the key picks.
Read Everton Verdict
Unfortunately for Durham, his standpoint is closer to a symbolic reaction that may be echoed by ardent Liverpool fans rather than something that is directly enforceable.
The rules do not advocate for retrospective bans in spite of the severity of the challenge and the subsequent injury it caused. The FA determined the incident was seen at the time having consulted with the match officials, including VAR.
The FA does possess the powers to intervene even if a decision is reached, but this is only used in exceptionally rare circumstances.
Clearly, the event was seen as not warranting further action. It could set an ugly precedent for future fixtures if a retrospective ban for a harsh challenge was applied.
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