On Tuesday, the PGMOL released the audio footage capturing the communication between VAR and match officials during the incorrect offside decision involving Luis Diaz.
The release of this recording, prompted by pressure from Liverpool, offers a clear insight into how things went awry in the VAR room, as referees Darren England and Dan Cook failed to convey to on-field referee Simon Hooper that Liverpool’s number seven had scored a legitimate goal.
Prior to sharing the audio, the PGMOL publicly acknowledged the error, and refereeing chief Howard Webb reportedly apologized to Liverpool. In the aftermath of the blunder, England and Cook have not been selected for officiating duties in gameweek eight of the Premier League.
Liverpool’s statement on Monday didn’t explicitly request a replay of the 2-1 defeat but indicated their intention to explore various options for resolution. However, the audio release has further fueled frustration among some fans, and there have been calls, particularly online, for a replay of the match as a form of justice, with petitions even emerging to support this demand.
Jurgen Klopp has expressed his belief that the match should be replayed due to the error, but it’s important to note that Liverpool is not officially calling for a replay.
The club’s primary request is for a transparent and comprehensive investigation into the procedural failings related to the incident, rather than an outright replay, as noted by Melissa Reddy on Sky Sports. According to The Athletic, Liverpool, after consulting with senior figures within the club, accepts the outcome of the game and is not formally requesting a replay.
Furthermore, seeking a legal case for a replay would be exceedingly challenging. While the Premier League does have the authority to sanction replays under specific circumstances when rules are breached, doing so is complicated for various reasons, including the fact that the true impact of the decision on Liverpool’s season might not be fully known until later in the season.
Jurgen Klopp has expressed his belief that the match should be replayed due to the error, but it’s important to note that Liverpool is not officially calling for a replay.
The club’s primary request is for a transparent and comprehensive investigation into the procedural failings related to the incident, rather than an outright replay, as noted by Melissa Reddy on Sky Sports. According to The Athletic, Liverpool, after consulting with senior figures within the club, accepts the outcome of the game and is not formally requesting a replay.
Furthermore, seeking a legal case for a replay would be exceedingly challenging. While the Premier League does have the authority to sanction replays under specific circumstances when rules are breached, doing so is complicated for various reasons, including the fact that the true impact of the decision on Liverpool’s season might not be fully known until later in the season.