John Marshall
Liverpool took the lead against Manchester United in controversial circumstances on Thursday night – but former referee Graham Poll believes Carlos Velasco Carballo made the right decision.
Memphis Depay was adjudged to have pulled down Nathaniel Clyne in the box during the first half of the Europa League clash and Daniel Sturridge coolly slotted the ball home despite David de Gea getting a hand to his effort.
Retired referee Poll believes it was the correct call to award Liverpool a penalty.
“Referee Carlos Velasco Carballo was absolutely correct to award Liverpool a penalty,” said the former Premier League official.
“While the initial contact on Nathaniel Clyne from Memphis Depay was outside the area, the following contact was either on the line – and the line constitutes part of the area – or just inside the box depending on the viewing angle.”
Daniel Sturridge, who put away the spot kick for the Reds, refused to be drawn over the incident.
He said: “I didn’t see it.
“I wasn’t involved and I didn’t see it, but the most important thing is the team wins the game. That’s what matters.”
The second-leg of the last-16 tie takes place next Thursday, with United looking to overturn a two goal defecit at Old Trafford.
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