Mike Dean has shared his verdict on the latest VAR controversy that surfaced during Everton’s match against Manchester United at Goodison Park.
David Moyes was in high spirits as Everton made an impressive start, taking the lead with Beto’s powerful goal.
VAR took several minutes to approve the goal after offside concerns were raised regarding Beto and Jesper Lindstrom in the build-up, with the review process again coming under scrutiny.
Everton’s VAR controversy at Goodison Park
Harry Maguire was at the forefront of the complaints, despite his defense having multiple opportunities to clear the ball before Beto scored.
Speaking live on Sky Sports Soccer Saturday (22 February, 12:51), Dean immediately addressed the footage of the goal and the ensuing complaints.
“It doesn’t look offside when the ball is headed back in, the left-back is moving out,” he explained.
“He’s onside by a good yard, yard and a half.”
Manchester United under pressure at Everton
There’s nothing quite like watching an opposition team lose their composure at Goodison Park, as Liverpool recently found out in their dramatic 2-2 draw.
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For some reason, it felt even worse for Manchester United, who were supposed to be bolstered by Ruben Amorim but ended up seeing Moyes continue to assert his dominance.
While United did make a late comeback with goals from Bruno Fernandes and Manuel Ugarte, it was clear that these high-priced players were absent when needed most at Goodison.
West Ham must be questioning their decisions, as Moyes proves his worth week in and week out by getting the best out of this Everton team.
Every player understands their role perfectly, something Manchester United lacked in defense as they complained instead of focusing on stopping Beto.
Beto’s recent form in the Premier League has been outstanding, with goals in his last four matches:
Manchester United (1), Crystal Palace (1), Liverpool (1), Leicester (2).
When Moyes arrived at Everton, the club was fighting relegation, and with injuries to Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Armando Broja, hope seemed lost.
Enter Beto, who has been a revelation in recent weeks, benefiting from a manager who knows how to maximize his strengths—a contrast to Sean Dyche’s approach.
Even when Calvert-Lewin and Broja return, they won’t be able to reclaim their starting spots immediately.
Everton are making a strong push back into the top half of the Premier League, and the competition is set to make its way to Bramley Moore Dock next season.
Mike Dean reacts to Everton controversy v Manchester United on Sky Sports
