Medical expert: Robertson ‘unbelievably lucky’ amid ‘leg-breaking’ Tottenham-Liverpool verdict
Liverpool star Andy Robertson was “unbelievably lucky” to escape without a broken leg against Tottenham.
That is the view of injury expert Ben Dinnery, who runs the Premier Injuries site and has a background in medicine and data analysis.
Robertson was on the receiving end of a full-blooded Harry Kane challenge after 20 minutes, but the Spurs striker only received a booking in the clash last Sunday (19 December).
Speaking to Sky Sports after the match, Reds boss Jurgen Klopp said: “We thought [VAR official Chris Kavanagh] might not be in his office.”
Robertson himself was later sent off by referee Paul Tierney for a swipe at Emerson Royal with `15 minutes remaining in the match, which ended 2-2.
But Dinnery claims that Kane’s offence was worse than Robertson’s and could have caused serious injury.
“Kane’s was more dangerous and deserved a red card,” he told Football Insider‘s Adam Williams.
“It was a little bit rash. If you think of the consequences had Robertson not managed to get out of the way, he has saved himself and Kane.
“It was a split-second decision and I don’t think there was intent or malice.
“But we are seeing this leniency from referees of players being allowed to push the boundaries a bit harder. It has created this grey area.
“How far can you go before you’re sent off? That is a leg-breaking tackle if his foot is planted, 100 per cent.
“Robertson was unbelievably lucky to avoid injury and Kane was lucky to stay on the pitch.
“With Robertson’s, it was wild and reckless. But again, I think it was out of frustration rather than intent.
“I’m not sure it’s a straight red. It’s maybe an orange. But if you’re sending Robertson off for that, Kane has to go too.”
Liverpool now trail league leader Man City by three points.
Tottenham meanwhile are in 7th place, six points outside the top four.
In other news, pundit tips Nathaniel Phillips to give West Ham “push they need” after Liverpool exit update.