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Former Premier League referee Mike Dean has launched a scathing attack on referee Chris Kavanagh and the VAR team following a highly controversial decision during the latest Merseyside derby between Everton and Liverpool.The incident in question involved Everton defender James Tarkowski, who was involved in a reckless challenge that many believed warranted a straight red card. However, on-field referee Chris Kavanagh opted not to send the player off, and VAR failed to intervene by recommending a pitchside review.Speaking on Sky Sports’ Soccer Special, Dean did not hold back. “It’s just a horrible challenge and 100% a red card in any game of football,” he stated. The former top-flight official, who rarely criticises his colleagues so strongly, expressed disbelief that the challenge was not reviewed on the monitor.Dean went on to slam the decision-making process, arguing that both the referee and VAR officials got it badly wrong. “He should have gone to the screen and he should be off,” Dean added, highlighting what he described as a clear and obvious error that could have changed the complexion of the intense derby clash.The controversial moment has sparked widespread debate among fans and pundits alike, with many Everton supporters feeling hard done by once again in a fixture already known for its high stakes and officiating scrutiny. Liverpool ultimately edged the match, but questions remain over whether the numerical advantage could have altered the outcome.This latest outburst from Mike Dean adds fuel to the ongoing debate about the consistency and reliability of VAR in the Premier League. As calls grow louder for improvements in refereeing standards, Dean’s comments have resonated strongly with supporters frustrated by repeated high-profile errors.With the season heating up, all eyes will now be on the PGMOL to see how they respond to the growing criticism from one of football’s most experienced former referees.
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