Why James Tarkowski escaped red card vs Liverpool as Premier League explains decision
The Premier League has explained why James Tarkowski escaped a red card for a terrible challenge on Alexis Mac Allister, which left the Liverpool midfielder rolling around on the turf in agony during the Merseyside derby.
The incident happened in the early stages of the game at Anfield, when the two players challenged for the ball on the edge of Liverpool's penalty area.
Tarkowski got to the ball first, hammering it up field, but followed through and his studs made contact high up on Mac Allister's leg, prompting the referee to immediately brandish a yellow card.
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An explainer published on X said: "The referee's call of yellow card for a reckless foul by Tarkowski was checked by the VAR, with contact on the follow through after Tarkowski had played the ball deemed to be reckless."
There will be more to follow on this breaking news story and Liverpool.com will bring you the very latest updates, pictures and video as soon as possible.
Please check back regularly for updates on this developing story as they happen.
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