Michael Owen talks Liverpool injury and Joe Gomez incident against Man City

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Michael Owen has told Premier League Productions (Sunday, 6.45pm) that Liverpool star Trent Alexander-Arnold’s injury is a blow – and also discussed the handball given against Joe Gomez in the draw against Manchester City.

Liverpool played out an entertaining draw with Manchester City on Sunday afternoon as both sides looked to take a big step in the Premier League title race. Liverpool took the lead through Mo Salah from the penalty spot.

Kyle Walker’s foul on Sadio Mane allowed Salah to score, but Gabriel Jesus equalised after a stunning turn and shot. Kevin De Bruyne missed a penalty after VAR adjudged Gomez to have stopped a cross with his arm.

In the second half, Alexander-Arnold was substituted after suffering what looked to be a calf injury. Liverpool legend Owen stated that it is impossible to replace the right-back – and labelled the decision against Gomez as a “joke”.

“The rule is a joke. I feel sorry for the refs, and for VAR. they’re getting stick for that decision. It is the rule that needs to change, not VAR. as long as they’re consistent, I think we can get used to it,” Owen said.

On £40,000 a week (Spotrac) Alexander-Arnold’s injury, which will rule him out of this month’s England games, Owen said: “It is a blow. You’re never going to replace him but I do think it is a position that Liverpool are strong in.”

TBR’s view – Who is to blame over handball?

VAR and the referees, as Owen says, are simply applying the current law. But does there need to be an ounce of common sense when making these decisions? Gomez is clearly running back to his own goal.

His position, with his arm somewhat outstretched, is a running motion. He is even turning away from the ball when it strikes his arm – he is that desperate not to handball, that he has altered his motion to get out of the way.

Yes, the rule needs to be changed. But VAR and the referees need to use common sense, too.