EPL

Lampard calls for greater 'consistency' with VAR but Allan's red upheld

By Sports Desk March 18, 2022

Frank Lampard called for greater consistency in the use of VAR in the Premier League, as Everton midfielder Allan's three-match suspension for a red card against Newcastle United was upheld.

Allan was initially cautioned for a clear tactical foul on Allan Saint-Maximin at Goodison Park on Thursday, but Craig Pawson upgraded the decision to a red after VAR advised the referee to review the touchline monitor.

Alex Iwobi proved the late hero to secure a vital 1-0 win for Everton in a clash that was paused due to a protestor tying himself to a goalpost early in the second half, though the Toffees were not as fortunate two weeks earlier when VAR failed to spot a handball by Manchester City's Rodri that would have provided a late penalty for Lampard's side in a 1-0 defeat.

Speaking prior to the announcement that Everton were unsuccessful in having Allan's red rescinded or his three-game ban reduced, Lampard had vented his frustrations at the use of technology in officiating.

"There are question marks over VAR. I understand the human side and I don't want to bang the drum about that," Lampard told reporters at a news conference on Friday when asked about Allan's dismissal.

"There will be faults in it because we are human. I make mistakes as a manager, the players make mistakes, this is the world we live in and we don't want to get rid of the system, but it is the consistency. I'm very happy to have those conversations. We have to have them to move forward."

Allan will miss Sunday's FA Cup quarter-final against Crystal Palace and Premier League matches against West Ham and Everton's fellow strugglers Burnley.

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