'It was a 1980s tackle!' - Mark Lawrenson fumes at James Tarkowski after brutal challenge on Alexis Mac Allister as he claims Everton defender deserved straight red card in Merseyside derby clash with Liverpool

Speaking on talkSPORT, former Liverpool defender Mark Lawrenson slammed Tarkowski's challenge on Mac Allister during Everton's 1-0 defeat to their city rivals, labelling it a "stonewall red". The incident saw Tarkowski leave a mark on Mac Allister's shin, and PGMOL have now confirmed that he should have been sent off.

Despite referee Sam Barrott initially failing to spot the severity of the challenge, VAR reviewed the footage. To the surprise of many - including Lawrenson - it was decided that no further action was required. PGMOL's apology may come a little too late for the Reds' liking, however.

Lawrenson said: "It was a 1980s tackle that, by the way! I think it I think it's an absolute sending-off, stonewall. Yeah."

Asked about whether the speed of the challenge made a difference, he replied: "That's rubbish. The initial contact, he did extremely well, he knew what he was doing. I think he was very, very lucky to stay on the pitch."

Liverpool face Fulham on Sunday, while Everton take on Arsenal this weekend. The Reds will be hoping their bitter rivals do them a favour, as they sit 12 points clear of the Gunners at the Premier League's summit.