Arsenal: Why Noni Madueke avoided a red card against Liverpool as Premier League issue statement

While the Gunners were awarded a free-kick on the edge of their own box, Mac Allister was not happy with the decision and had words with Odegaard - who was on the floor - and appeared to tap the Arsenal captain on the head.Madueke then came rushing over and leaned his head into Mac Allister as the two players came face-to-face, thus risking a potential red card for violent conduct.Interestingly, the Arsenal winger was already on a yellow card but referee Andy Madley did not punish Madueke, instead showing a yellow card to Mac Allister and Jurrien Timber.The Premier League’s match centre have now confirmed that Madueke avoided a red card because his action was not considered aggressive or violent.A statement reads: “The referee’s call of no violent conduct by Madueke on Mac Allister was checked and confirmed by VAR.“VAR: “All of the situations have been checked and cleared. There is some contact as Madueke and Mac Allister square-up. In my opinion, it's not forceful, not violent, not brutal”.”Alexis Mac Allister had words with Martin Odegaard which sparked a melee between Liverpool and Arsenal players AFP/GettyGary Neville, who was on co-commentary duty for Sky Sports, slammed the Liverpool midfielder for going down far too easily and praised the VAR officials for not advising the referee to produce a red card."Well done to VAR because they're recognised that Mac Alliser going down is embarrassing,” Neville said."He said that, but in a posher way.”