VAR for Merseyside derby ‘FORGOT’ Pickford tackle for Van Dijk ACL injury – Liverpool FC

Liverpool vs. Everton on Saturday will see a return to VAR for David Coote, who famously missed Jordan Pickford’s challenge on Virgil van Dijk in 2020.

The Reds return from the international break for the Merseyside derby this weekend, on the back of two frustrating results in the Premier League.

While Darren England and Dan Cook, VAR and assistant VAR for the 2-1 loss at Tottenham, have been reinstated for upcoming fixtures, neither are involved at Anfield.

Instead, Craig Pawson will referee, with Coote appointed VAR for the 12.30pm kickoff.

Coote’s involvement brings up old controversy, though, as he is VAR for a Merseyside derby for the first time since Goodison Park in 2020.

That day, Pickford’s late, scything challenge on Van Dijk left the centre-back writhing on the pitch ahead of a nine-month layoff.

Van Dijk suffered serious ACL damage as Pickford’s legs wrapped…