Dermot Gallagher has now commented on the handball decision which occurred during the Premier League clash between Manchester City and Everton.
The 66-year-old was speaking on Ref Watch for Sky Sports.
So, what did Dermot Gallagher think about the handball decision in Everton 1-3 Manchester City? Let’s take a look…
Dermot Gallagher on Manchester City penalty
Well, the Irishman said he understands why Amadou Onana was penalised for handball.
The Belgium international blocked a shot from Nathan Ake with his arm, although many questioned the award of a penalty as the ball would have hit the Everton No.8’s face regardless of his limb being there or not.
Gallagher did not exactly say whether he agreed with John Brooks or not – but simply said he felt a penalty would be given as soon as he saw the replay given the state of modern day football.
The man from Ringsend said: “I think it’s a modern day penalty. If you see this kind of thing happen, the directive is, is the ball striking an arm above the shoulder or the head? It’s that high. The argument is, is it too close? Has he got time to react? But the minute I saw the replay I just said this is going to be given, there’s no doubt about that.”
While the ball was heading for Onana’s head and his arm was not exactly extended from his body, the Belgian was in trouble as soon as he raised his hands, giving Brooks a decision to make.
Manchester City showed character against Everton
When Jack Harrison put Everton 1-0 up, it would have been easy for Manchester City to shrink, especially having only recently made the long journey home from Saudi Arabia.
However, Pep Guardiola watched his side step up instead of shrink, proving their title credentials in a hostile environment to send out a message to Arsenal, Liverpool, Aston Villa and Tottenham.
As things stand, it seems like those four clubs should have done more to take advantage of Manchester City’s run of one win in six Premier League games.
