Sir Alex Ferguson’s Past Comments on Ashley Young Diving Resurface After VAR Controversy in Everton Match

Just over a week after Everton’s 2-2 draw with Liverpool at Goodison Park, the Toffees found themselves in another dramatic match against one of the Premier League’s top sides.

 

Everton had a strong start, taking a 2-0 lead, but they ultimately let it slip in the second half.

 

However, they nearly snatched a late victory when Matthijs De Ligt appeared to foul Ashley Young inside the box.

 

Referee Andy Madley initially awarded a penalty, but after a VAR review, the decision was overturned.

 

This incident adds to a growing list of VAR controversies involving Everton this season. Many fans were left debating whether Young had genuinely been fouled or if he had gone down too easily.

 

Young has a history of making the most of minimal contact, something Manchester United supporters are all too familiar with.

 

His exaggerated fall against United was reminiscent of past instances where he has been accused of diving.

 

Young’s reputation for simulation dates back years, even to his time at Manchester United, where legendary manager Sir Alex Ferguson publicly addressed the issue.

 

Alex Ferguson’s Comments on Ashley Young’s Diving

Young’s attempt to win a penalty against United on Saturday was nothing new.

 

Over the years, he has frequently gone to ground under light contact, and back in 2012, Ferguson himself acknowledged Young’s growing reputation as a diver.

 

Speaking to the BBC, Ferguson cautioned Young about his tendency to go down easily.

 

“He’s going to have to be careful because people are scrutinising it now,” Ferguson said.

 

“The thing is, it could be in a really important game where there’s a blatant penalty, and he’ll not get it because he gets a reputation for diving.”

 

“He’s a sensible lad and he’ll stand there, look in the mirror and think, ‘I’ve got to be a bit more careful and stay on my feet a little bit.’”

 

Ferguson’s words proved prophetic, as Young’s reputation followed him throughout his career. Even now, 13 years later, it remains a topic of discussion in the Premier League.

 

Ashley Young’s Response to Diving Allegations

 

Young has addressed these accusations in the past. In an interview with The Guardian, he insisted that he was merely playing the game as it is officiated.

 

“Of course, I understand what you’re saying, and everyone is going to have their say on it, but I’ve spoken to the previous manager and current manager,” Young said.

 

“The referees are giving decisions, and that is where I think it lies. It’s been talked about [to me], but that’s in-house. I’m not going to comment on what’s been said.”

 

Young also pointed out that referees have to make difficult calls in real time.

 

“I think it’s one to ask the referees – they’re the ones who are giving free-kicks and penalties.

 

I remember getting booked against Palace and then winning a penalty. Against Real Sociedad, it was another penalty that was given.

 

Referees have got tough decisions to make, they have a tough time out there making decisions, but they have made the right decisions, I think.”

 

“I don’t take notice of the headlines or the debates. That’s obviously for the media to discuss, and people are entitled to have their say. For me, the referees have made decisions, and that’s it.”

 

Did Young’s Reputation Influence VAR’s Decision?

 

Saturday’s overturned penalty decision will have come as a relief to Ferguson, who once warned Young about the dangers of developing a reputation for diving.

 

Given Young’s history, some may wonder whether his past theatrics played a role in the VAR decision.

 

While Everton fans may feel hard done by, others might argue that justice was served.

 

Young has long been under scrutiny for how easily he goes to ground, and this latest controversy only adds to the debate.

 

Regardless of opinions, what remains clear is that Young’s reputation continues to follow him, even in the latter stages of his career.