Liverpool defender Andy Robertson will be available for this weekend’s highly anticipated Premier League match against Tottenham Hotspur, despite receiving a straight red card in the Reds’ recent 2-2 draw with Fulham.
Robertson was sent off just 17 minutes into the game for what was deemed a last-man foul on former Liverpool teammate Harry Wilson. With Fulham already leading through an early goal, Liverpool faced an uphill battle.
However, a spirited performance saw them salvage a draw thanks to late heroics from their attacking line.
According to the Premier League Match Centre, the referee deemed the foul a clear denial of a goal-scoring opportunity, confirming the red card decision after a VAR review.
The review also verified that Wilson was in an onside position when the incident occurred.
Rules Governing Red Card Suspensions
Unlike violent conduct or serious foul play, which trigger an automatic three-match ban, Robertson’s offence of denying a goal-scoring opportunity only carries a one-game suspension.
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Such bans apply across all domestic competitions, meaning Robertson is ineligible for Liverpool’s upcoming Carabao Cup quarter-final against Southampton.
However, he will be free to return for the Tottenham clash on Sunday when Liverpool resumes their league campaign.
Suspension Rules and Their Implications
Had Robertson’s red card been for an accumulation of yellow cards, the suspension would have applied differently.
Yellow card bans are competition-specific, meaning Robertson would have missed a Premier League game rather than a Carabao Cup fixture.
With Robertson out for the Southampton match, Liverpool faces a defensive dilemma.
Injuries to Kostas Tsimikas, Conor Bradley, and Ibrahima Konaté leave the Reds short of first-choice defensive options.
However, the left-back’s availability for the Tottenham game offers some relief to manager Arne Slot, who will need all hands on deck for the crucial fixture.
Key Fixture Against Spurs
Liverpool’s clash with Tottenham promises to be a critical match in the race for the top spots in the Premier League.
Having Robertson available boosts Liverpool’s chances of containing Spurs’ dynamic attack, led by players like Son Heung-min and James Maddison.
Robertson’s experience and attacking prowess from the left flank will be vital as the Reds aim to maintain their strong league form.
While Robertson’s red card caused significant challenges during the Fulham game and rules him out of the Carabao Cup tie, his availability for the Premier League match against Tottenham ensures Liverpool can field one of their most reliable defenders.
With the team battling defensive absences, Robertson’s return will be a welcome boost as Liverpool prepares for one of their toughest tests of the season.
