‘It’s a red card’ – Former referee can’t believe Mings wasn’t sent off for Gakpo challenge

A former official has admitted Tyrone Mings was lucky to save himself with only a yellow card for his challenge against Cody Gakpo during the 1-1 draw with Aston Villa.

A tall boot from Mings struck Gakpo’s navel late in the first half in a challenge that drew clear studs on the striker.

Manager Jurgen Klopp said after the match he was “surprised” that the Villa defender received no further punishment from referee John Brooks following a VAR check and joked that the scars on Gakpo’s chest imitated the logo of a “very famous brand”.Mbappe

On Sky Sports News’ ‘Ref Watch’ show, former referee Dermot Gallagher gave his opinion on the incident when he indicated that Mings should walk.

Gallagher explained: “I think it’s a red card there. He is face to face, lift his shoe after playing the ball.

Former Liverpool defender Stephen Warnock then asked Gallagher if the marks on Gakpo’s chest provided enough evidence for the decision to be reviewed by the VAR. “The ref keeps all options until he starts again,” Gallagher continued.

“The referee can change his mind. He can get advice from the assistants, from the fourth official, he can ask the VAR: ‘Did I understand correctly?’

Fans might be pleasantly surprised to hear a former referee disagree with a decision made on the pitch due to replays, as players like Gallagher are often criticized for showing too much loyalty to their peers.

The crash was quickly investigated by the VAR at Stockley Park before the initial decision to grant Mings a booking was ultimately upheld.

Brooks also disallowed a gakpo goal in the second half when, on a rare occasion, the referee was sent to the on-field observer to determine if the goal was offside. Fans were rightfully confused as to how the goal shouldn’t have been, with Virgil van Dijk ultimately being the man who strayed into an offside position.

That was a decision Gallagher felt was correct: “By law, Gakpo’s goal shouldn’t have stood, the referees got it right. As written, referees are in trouble with it.

“If you look at this incident, the VAR cannot decide. He has to send the referee to the monitor because it has to be the referee’s decision and it has to be subjective. “It’s a very unfortunate part of the law that paralyzes officials.”

It was a result that all but ended Liverpool’s hopes of next season’s Champions League qualification, highlighting the potential significance of such decisions towards the end of the season.

The Reds travel to Southampton on Sunday for their final game of 2022/23, with the Europa League almost certainly next season’s destination.

Also.. 

Liverpool deal blow to Manchester United and set to sign South Korean Napoli defender

Kim Min-jae is a name Premier League fans will hear a lot this summer as Liverpool and Manchester United are linked with a move for the South Korea international. After winning Serie A with Napoli, the centre-back is ready for his next step and could join England in a €70m transfer.

During this season, Kim Min-jae played for Napoli for the first time, made 33 appearances and scored two goals, but defensively he was an absolute rock for the Napoli team.

This has sparked interest from top European clubs to hire Min-jae’s services and Liverpool appear to be in pole position just ahead of Man Utd. Born on November 15, 1996 in Seoul, South Korea, Kim Min-jae’s football journey began at a young age. Possessing towering height, strength and exceptional defensive instincts, he has quickly made a name for himself in the South Korean K League. Kim’s performances caught the attention of European clubs and in 2019 he moved to Beijing Guoan in the Chinese Super League.

Throughout his time in China, Kim continued to impress with his commanding performances in the heart of defense. His ability to read the game, win dogfights and intercept in a timely manner showed the maturity of him beyond his years. These performances did not go unnoticed and in 2021 Napoli secured the services of Kim Min-jae.

Kim’s arrival at Napoli has added a new dimension to the team’s defensive solidity. His commanding presence and ability to set up the back line gave his teammates a sense of stability and confidence. Kim’s collaboration with other defenders has been seamless and his composure under pressure has allowed Napoli to withstand attacks from some of Serie A’s most impressive sides.

As the season progressed, Napoli’s defensive record improved significantly, largely thanks to Kim’s contributions. His consistent performances have earned him praise from fans, pundits and fellow pros alike. Kim’s aerial power and physicality made him a dominant force on defensive and attacking set pieces, contributing to goals crucial to Napoli’s winning campaign.

Napoli’s Serie A triumph was a historic moment for the club and Kim Min-jae played a crucial role in their success. His ability to neutralize opposing attackers, direct defenses and make key defensive plays has made him an indispensable part of the team’s roster.

If he joined United, it would pave the way for the departure of Harry Maguire as well as the late Phil Jones. Meanwhile at Anfield, Liverpool are looking to partner Virgil van Dijk after a very disappointing 2022/23 season.