Raheem Sterling was very lucky to avoid a red card after his reckless challenge on Dele Alli during Manchester City's league clash with Tottenham.
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The City star caught Alli high on his leg as match referee Mike Dean brandished a yellow card for his tackle.
The foul was then reviewed by VAR but, to the surprise of many, Sterling's yellow card was not upgraded to a red card.
VAR FOR STERLING TACKLE :tv:
Mourinho is livid with Sterling's tackle on Alli but the video assistant referee sticks with Mike Dean's call for a yellow.
:tv: Watch on Sky Sports Premier League
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- Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) February 2, 2020
Jose Mourinho cut an animated figure on the touchline after seeing the challenge for himself on the monitor. He then remonstrated with the fourth official.
This is what Jose Mourinho thought of the decision :triumph: pic.twitter.com/KmVZuAtEJZ
- Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) February 2, 2020
VAR failing to overturn Sterling's initial caution sent social media into overdrive.
If Dele Alli had a serious injury like Andre Gomes, Sterling would be off. And that's why the effect of a tackle shouldn't determine the punishment.
- Deji Faremi (@deejayfaremi) February 2, 2020
#thfc Sterling very lucky not to go for a late, studs-up challenge on Alli, who turned his ankle but is up and trying to walk it off.
- Dan Kilpatrick (@Dan_KP) February 2, 2020
How can VAR not give a red card for Sterling foul? All day long that is a red card. And with the help of VAR that should be switched. But it isn't and proves once again that VAR is a joke. Don't bother having it if the refs can't use it correctly. #Spurs #EPL
- Matt Reed (@reed172) February 2, 2020
just seen the foul of sterling on dele similar to when aubameyang got a red card VAR has no consistency #TOTMCI
- Angello (@frostdangelo) February 2, 2020
"No difference in that and Aubameyang'a red against Palace. No consistency," one social media user.
A second tweeted: "Disgusting tackle and even worse decision! Wow VAR."
A third tweeted: "Honestly how can you allow someone to continue playing after a tackle like that. Could have broke his ankle. VARCHESTER CITY."
What's your take? Let us know.
Topics: Manchester City, Spurs, Football News, Football, Sterling, Premier League, Alli
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