Paul Merson and Mike Dean stunned by Everton v Arsenal controversy live on Sky Sports

The decision to let Arsenal’s victory over Everton on Sunday, May 19, stand astounded Paul Merson and Mike Dean.

At the Emirates Stadium, Kai Havertz scored a late goal to give the Gunners a 2-1 victory. However, despite the three points, Manchester City’s 3-1 victory over West Ham prevented the Gunners from winning the Premier League.
Michael Oliver was not persuaded to go over to the VAR screen, but former Arsenal forward Merson and former Premier League referee Dean could not believe that a handball was not awarded against Gabriel Jesus.

“My god, can you believe it when the ball comes in and he goes like that with his arm, looking at it?” Merson inquired on May 19, 17:54, during the Sky Sports Social Special.

Dean answered, “No.” We had a handball last week at Bournemouth; after two more passes and the ball in the net, he was sent to the screen to determine whether or not it was a subjective handball, at which point the goal was disallowed.

“I believe it should be chalked off; this is an exact carbon copy where he knocked it past him. There’s one pass and it’s in the back of the net.”

Gabriel Jesus scores a contentious winner for Arsenal against Everton.

On a different day, Everton supporters might have been more incensed about this goal being left unallowed because it appeared as though Oliver would undoubtedly overrule it after being requested to consult the VAR monitor.

Though it did not cause much harm—Everton was already guaranteed a spot in the Premier League for the upcoming season—it will still sting that the Toffees were the target of yet another ill-advised decision.

With financial difficulties, takeover rumours and point deductions dominating the conversation off the pitch, this loss marks the end of another challenging season at Goodison Park.

On the pitch, Everton displayed the kind of grit and determination that were absolutely necessary to ensure that they remained a top-flight team, and Dean Dyche was able to guide his side to safety.

With any luck, the club will be able to look forward both on and off the pitch during the off-season and find some more stability off the pitch.