Liverpool news: Whelan issues ‘catastrophic’ claim as Luis Diaz controversy analysed
Brighton shot-stopper Robert Sanchez should have seen red for after causing a “dangerous” collision with Liverpool star Luis Diaz.
That is the view of former Leeds striker Noel Whelan, speaking exclusively to Football Insider about the “failure” of VAR.
Diaz, 25, stole a march on the Brighton defence to open the scoring at the Amex Stadium on Saturday (12 March) as Liverpool recorded a 2-0 win over the Seagulls.
The Colombia international headed past Sanchez bravely but was met with a strong challenge from the Spaniard.
The Video Assistant Referee system looked at the incident but found that no further action was necessary.
Whelan suggested the challenge could have ended in “catastrophe” for Diaz.
“Sanchez should have been sent off – it was so dangerous, and it could’ve been a lot worse,” he told Football Insider‘s Ewan Kingsbury.
“I loved the bravery from Diaz, however, he showed real commitment to get to the ball and score. A lot of players would’ve backed out or went in half-heartedly.
“The way Sanchez has come out – it’s unsafe, and it could have been really damaging to the player. It could have been a catastrophe for Diaz.
“But again, we’re asking the question of VAR. What are they thinking? If that’s outside the box, or anywhere else on the pitch, or he doesn’t score – he’s sent off.
“There’s no grey area. It’s right in front of their face. One of the reasons we have VAR is to ensure the safety of the players, and it’s failed to do that in this case.”
Diaz has scored twice in five Premier League appearances since signing for Liverpool in the January window.
The Merseysiders sit second, three points adrift of leaders Man City.
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