Sir Kenny Dalglish: Mistake after mistake over Jordan Pickford and Virgil van Dijk incident was a low point for VAR

Last weekend’s incident involving Jordan Pickford and Virgil van Dijk was embarrassing for the match officials at Goodison Park, and VAR officials at Stockley Park.

If they can’t see the Everton keeper’s challenge on the Liverpool defender is a red card, there is something far wrong.

VAR was introduced to help eliminate human error – but human error played its part in this decision as only two of the three procedures that should be followed were followed.

After they decided a penalty couldn’t be awarded because Virgil was offside, the officials forgot to take into account the final question, namely whether it was a red card, or not.

Really, it was just one mistake after another.

I’m not saying this because it was an Everton player involved, and a Liverpool player was on the receiving end.

It’s all about getting decisions right, and protecting the guys out on the pitch.

I wish Virgil a speedy recovery. He is a wonderful footballer and a first-class fella.

Most people would agree that the tackle should have resulted in a sending-off.

I’m pretty sure if you see another challenge like that, it will result in a red card.

It would be beneficial to have a former footballer at Stockley Park to help with the VAR process.

The officials should have the final say, but having someone in there who has played the game wouldn’t do any harm for guidance and opinion.

The authorities should be willing to consider anything that helps the game and helps the match officials.

It should be looked into and piloted. It’s never too late.