Accused of Getting VAR Assistance, Jurgen Klopp: Liverpool Has Also Been Harmed

DBasia.news –  Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp disagrees with the notion that his team was assisted by VAR (Video Assistant Referee) this season in the Premier League.

The use of VAR this season has led to controversy which has divided supporters into two camps: pros and cons. The Premier League has first used it this season in the history of English football.

VAR drama continued to occur at Anfield on Week 20 of the Premier League, Sunday (12/29) PM. Liverpool maintained a positive trend through a 1-0 win over Wolverhampton Wanderers via Sadio Mane’s only goal on the 42nd minutes.

At minute 45 + 3 Wolves were originally equalized from a goal created by Pedro Neto. However, the referee (Anthony Taylor) annulled it after discussing it with the VAR team as Jonny was offside.

“The decision has been made, taken by the referee miles away and also from the television screen. He did not feel the match, he did not feel it because he was not in the match,” complained Nuno Espirito Santo, Wolves manager, quoted from ESPN.

“But what we don’t want, what is happening is what I think we mentioned before.”

“This is Anfield, a fantastic team, a fantastic club, fans and also a fantastic stadium, and we celebrate non-goal celebrations,” said Santo.

Interestingly, the handball made by Virgil van Dijk in Mane’s goal process was actually not annulled by VAR. No doubt the public opinion appears to be calling Liverpool with the satire “LiVARpool”.

Klopp tried to be diplomatic in responding. According to the German manager, Liverpool have also been disadvantaged by VAR against Aston Villa. Klopp also discussed its use is not perfect in the UK.

“Now we are in December and entering January (cold weather). The players just stand and wait too long, that’s not good. I prefer if the referee looks directly at the screen,” added Klopp.

“If there is an offside, then it will take time. But if it is possible the handball will be faster. That’s the way we do in England at this time. We are also in another position (disadvantaged) VAR against Aston Villa. Things like this can happen, no anyone likes it, “he explained.