[Trending News] Ally McCoist reacts to Liverpool v Tottenham controversy – 'Aggressive'

Ally McCoist reacts to Liverpool v Tottenham controversy. Credit: ITV1 / PLZ Soccer YouTube

Thu 6 February 2025 20:34, UK

Ally McCoist watched on from Anfield as a controversial moment unfolded between Liverpool and Tottenham on 6 February.

Ange Postecoglou’s side headed into the EFL Cup semi-final second leg with a one-goal advantage on 6 February, with Lucas Bergvall proving the difference in the reverse leg last time out.

With various injuries still troubling the Lilywhites – Cristian Romero, Guglielmo Vicario, Brennan Johnson and Dominic Solanke unavailable, to name just a few – Arne Slot’s side were the favourites at home.

The likes of Richarlison, Kevin Danso and Pape Sarr were all included in the starting XI, though the majority of fans were disappointed to see Mathys Tel only on the bench.

The game got off to a rather interesting start, with referee Craig Pawson given no other option to pause play while VAR took a look at a coming-together between Richarlison and Virgil van Dijk.

Virgil van Dijk gets lucky in Tottenham clash

Speaking live via ITV1 [6 February, 8:03pm], McCoist said: “I don’t think there’s any doubt he’ll be looking at it. He definitely brings his arm up in an attempt to shrug him off. It is a bit aggressive?

“There’s an elbow there, or maybe just below but they’ll take a look at it. There’s no doubt he’s trying to protect the ball there, Van Dijk. He uses his left elbow, and I’m not sure it makes any contact with his face, and that might be what saves him.”

Not even picking up a yellow card after throwing out an elbow, the focus switched once play restarted, but the moment quickly became a talking point on social media.

VAR refuses to get involved in EFL Cup tie

The Reds may feel that justice has been served after many shouted for Bergvall to be sent off in the first leg, with the midfielder eventually scoring the winner at Hotspur Way.

With van Dijk now lashing out at the Brazilian striker, many of the travelling Lilywhites supporters will have felt that the Reds centre-back should have seen a card of his own after the altercation.

Only a handful of minutes had passed before the controversial moment emerged at Anfield, which could have played into VAR’s decision, but that could have a massive impact on the final result.

Pawson will be hoping he hasn’t made the wrong decision and van Dijk goes on to play a vital role in the game.