Keith Hackett Exclusive: Sunderland ‘right to be unhappy’ as Everton star escapes punishment
Michael Keane was everywhere as Everton battled to a draw against Sunderland on Monday.
Everton drew 1-1 against Sunderland at the Stadium of Light on 3 November, with Granit Xhaka cancelling out the superb early opener from Iliman Ndiaye.
The Toffees started phenomenally and should have been multiple goals ahead, but instead were forced to keep out a late bombardment to leave with a point.
It could have all been undone, though, as Keane put his body on the line yet again.
Michael Keane lucky to avoid punishment at Sunderland
With the scores level, Noah Sadiki burst into the box only to see his cross blocked by the outstretched arms of Keane in the corner of the box.
VAR checked and cleared the incident, but many believe it was a clear penalty.
Thomas Bramall nor Michael Salisbury agreed on VAR, but Keith Hackett believes they were both wrong and a penalty should have been awarded.
Speaking exclusively to Goodison News, the ex-FIFA-listed referee believes Keane was in an unnatural position with his arms, and VAR would not have intervened if it were given on-field.
“I think that the defender knows exactly what he is doing, and his outstretched right hand makes contact with the ball,” Hackett said.
“He made no attempt to withdraw his right hand, and Sunderland have a right to be unhappy.
“I do believe that the hand is not in a natural position, and had the referee awarded a penalty kick, VAR would not have intervened.”
Iliman Ndiaye the only shining light
It was yet another night where Ndiaye stole all of the headlines.
Moyes must be wary that it is becoming something of an overreliance, with Jack Grealish struggling as the game went on, and the Senegal star was forced off.
Thierno Barry and Beto are becoming even more useless in the final third, and Everton are quickly running out of answers.
At least the back four are defending with everything they have, although Keane was clearly lucky to leave the Stadium of Light unpunished for this one.
Enjoyed this article? Stay connected with all the latest Everton news, updates, and behind-the-scenes content by following us on our new Instagram account – @goodisonnews