Tottenham vs Liverpool: Referees suspended after 'significant error'

Both Dan Cook and Darren England will not referee scheduled matches this weekend | Imago

Tottenham vs Liverpool: Referees suspended after 'significant error'

Ayoola Kelechi 11:00 - 01.10.2023

PGMOL announce that officials in Liverpool's recent game against Tottenham have been stepped down from other matches this game week

Two VAR officials who made a significant error in ruling out Luis Diaz’ goal for Liverpool against Tottenham have now been suspended from duty by PGMOL. 

VAR officials bungle Diaz decision

The refereeing body was forced to issue yet another apology for a mistake made by the video assistant referees, which cost Liverpool in their game against Tottenham. 

Darren England and Dan Cook were the VAR and assistant VAR during the game between the Reds and Spurs and were at the centre of controversy after they appeared to rule out a perfectly legitimate goal by Diaz for Liverpool in the first half. 

Jurgen Klopp's reaction to Diaz goal being ruled out for offside || Credit: Imago
Jurgen Klopp's reaction to Diaz goal being ruled out for offside || Credit: Imago

The mistake is believed to have stemmed from a miscommunication between the VAR and on-field referee Simon Hooper, as the VAR officials agreed with the referee’s initial call on the goal, without realising that the goal was ruled out instead of being upheld. 

Cook and England removed from future matches

The error has left a number of individuals involved with Liverpool enraged, despite the apology from PGMOL admitting their error and explaining the reason for the mistake by the VAR officials. 

In further action to remedy the situation, PGMOL have also taken Cook and England off VAR duties in the matches between Nottingham Forest and Brentford, as well as Fulham and Chelsea. 

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According to a statement released by PGMOL, Cook will be replaced by Craig Pawson as 4th official at City Ground, while Eddie Smart replaces Cook as assistant referee for the London derby. 

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