“That’s Never a Pen” – Richards and Shearer Hit Out at Controversial Everton Decision
VAR Debate Reignites as Everton Draw 1-1 with Arsenal
After controversy surrounded James Tarkowski escaping a red card in Everton’s 1-0 loss to Liverpool, it was Arsenal’s turn to be aggrieved by officiating at Goodison Park.
The flashpoint came when Iliman Ndiaye converted a penalty following a contentious foul call on Myles Lewis-Skelly, who was adjudged to have brought down Jack Harrison in the box.
Micah Richards expressed disbelief over the decision on The Rest is Football podcast, hosted by Gary Lineker.
Watching the footage, the former Manchester City defender was stunned, arguing Harrison had committed the foul instead.
Alan Shearer backed Richards, calling the penalty “very, very soft.”
“That’s never a pen,” Richards said. “I thought it was a foul the other way. They tangled a bit, but that’s never, ever a penalty.”
Shearer immediately agreed, reinforcing the sentiment that the call was unfair on Arsenal.
Meanwhile, David Moyes may have felt some overdue luck after recent frustration.
He was left furious when Liverpool’s goal stood at Anfield despite Luis Diaz appearing offside—though deemed not to be interfering with play.
Lewis-Skelly’s error at Goodison put Arsenal under pressure, while Harrison’s effort and persistence in the final third were noteworthy.
The Leeds loanee, after a shaky period, showed signs of improvement. Still, questions linger about whether he’s done enough to earn a permanent move—something that seems increasingly doubtful.
With Everton preparing to transition into their new home at Bramley-Moore Dock, the club appears ready to move on from players associated with the previous regime.
Harrison, having joined on loan for two consecutive seasons, symbolizes that era.
The shift under new ownership could be a prime opportunity to pursue higher-profile targets.
Moyes seems to have a clear vision for the future, which may bode well for Harrison’s playing time.
Yet with just one goal to his name this season, a change in direction feels inevitable.
The summer—marked by the stadium move and a fresh start—could be the ideal moment for a squad overhaul and new signings to usher in a more ambitious chapter for Everton.
