Alan Shearer disagrees with Bruno Fernandes after Manchester United loss to Tottenham
Alan Shearer disagrees with Bruno Fernandes after Manchester United loss to Tottenham
Man United felt they should have had a penalty when Alejandro Garnacho’s shot was blocked by Cristian Romero’s hand in the are
Alan Shearer doesn’t believe Manchester United should have been awarded a penalty for handball against Tottenham Hotspur.
United felt they should’ve had a spot-kick in the first half when Alejandro Garnacho’s shot struck the outstretched arm of Cristian Romero. Referee Michael Oliver waved the appeals away and there was no VAR intervention to overturn the decision.
Erik ten Hag and Bruno Fernandes both felt United should’ve been awarded a penalty but Shearer disagreed. He did, however, concede that there has been little consistency in the awarding of handball decisions.
“I’m happy with this decision,” Shearer told Match of the Day. “I don’t think there are many people, who aren’t Man United fans, who want to see this given as handball.
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“The problem is the consistency. There is every chance that if that happens in a match tomorrow, another referee would see it in a different way and give handball. The proximity, he’s only two yards away. I know his arm is out but I don’t want to see that as handball.
“Equally this one (Martinez on Romero), if he gives a penalty, it’s not going to get overturned. I am happy and comfortable with that decision there, I think Michael Oliver got most things right. They were tough calls. I’m happy with his decisions.”
Danny Murphy, meanwhile, voiced his concern at the lack of athleticism in United’s midfield, which was also an issue against Wolves. He argued they looked unfit, singling out Casemiro.
“It was so open from Man United’s perspective,” Murphy said. “The goal, United’s midfield, Sarr runs past the first two (Fernandes and Mount), Mount doesn’t see him on his left.
“Fernandes doesn’t see him on his right and he pops up behind Casemiro. Communication, discipline, organisation, non-existant.
“Bissouma really enjoyed himself, Tottenham dominated the midfield. He sits down Casemiro, it’s unlike him, he probably needs to get fitter.
“We know the quality he has got but he isn’t at it at the moment. They look a little bit low on fitness for me.”
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