Former Premier League referee Mike Dean said Jeremy Doku was 'very lucky' after seeming to catch Alexis Mac Allister in the chest during Manchester City’s 1-1 draw with Liverpool.
After arguably being at fault for John Stones’ opening goal at Anfield, Mac Allister leveled for the hosts from the spot in the 50th minute after Ederson had fouled Darwin Nunez in the penalty area.
The visitors, last year’s treble winners, withstood a flurry of late attacks from Liverpool and the points were shared between the two title-chasing teams, meaning Arsenal remain top of the Premier League table after 28 games.
However, there was a controversial moment deep into stoppage time as City winger Doku made contact with Mac Allister’s chest after hitting the post just minutes earlier with a left-footed strike on Merseyside.
Former Manchester United defender Neville, providing co-commentary for Sky Sports, said the Belgian was a 'lucky boy' as he watched back replays of the incident, while Dean felt 'it could be a penalty' on first viewing.
‘I can’t think he’s touched the ball, Doku, and the follow through – he’s caught him right in the chest,’ former official Dean said before VAR checked the challenge.
‘For me, it could be a penalty.
‘It’s a big decision by the VAR, he’s got a tiny touch on the ball with the follow through full on the ribcage.
‘I wouldn’t be surprised if Stuart [Attwell] sends Michael Oliver to the screen.’
Once the incident was checked, Dean added: ‘The check’s complete. Obviously he played the ball first and the follow through, I’m guessing, they’re saying is a normal coming together.
‘He’s very, very lucky in my opinion there, Doku.’
More details to come.
