Andreas Pereira controversy: Mike Dean issues '100%' Liverpool vs Fulham verdict

Andreas Pereira should “100%” have received a red card before scoring for Fulham against Liverpool, says Mike Dean.

The Cottagers went 1-0 up at Anfield thanks to a slick build-up and an acrobatic finish by former Man United midfielder Pereira.

Liverpool then saw Andrew Robertson sent off after he denied a goal-scoring opportunity despite a lengthy VAR check in an incident-filled start.

The Reds’ supporters would point to the fact that the Portuguese midfielder should not have been on the pitch in the first place.

Speaking on Sky Sports Soccer Saturday, Michael Dawson first questioned the decision as he said it was “very similar” to the Tom Cairney challenge on Dejan Kulusevski a few weeks ago.

Former Premier League referee Mike Dean agreed and said: “It’s the same kind of challenge with [Wilfred] Ndidi on the back of Cole Palmer. His studs are on the back of his Achilles and scraped down on the top of his boot.

“In my opinion, he’s nowhere near the ball and knew what he was doing for me. It should’ve 100% been a red card”.

Referee decision could prove costly in the title race for Liverpool

Football Insider opinion

Refereeing decisions have come under intense scrutiny this season, with many proving costly to clubs.

Liverpool fans may perceive every unfavourable call as part of an agenda against them, especially after David Coote’s controversial comments about Jürgen Klopp surfaced.

Consequently, the fallout led to Coote’s suspension and eventual dismissal from his role.

Arsenal supporters have also voiced frustrations, convinced of a conspiracy against their team after several questionable decisions impacted their matches.

However, one such decision could significantly affect the Merseyside club, as they will now be without Robertson for their Carabao Cup quarter-final tie against Southampton.

The 30-year-old has started the last five games under Arne Slot and remains a reliable presence at full-back.

The Scotland international was himself on the receiving end of a heavy challenge from Issa Diop that might have drawn a red in the opening stages.

Ultimately the decisions did contribute to an afternoon that cost Arne Slot’s men two points after a 2-2 draw, which was only softened by Arsenal being held to a goalless draw by Everton.

In other news, Liverpool given hope over signing one of their summer transfer targets.

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