Aware of Offside That Left John Stones Injured, Referee Howard Webb Discusses Incident During Everton v Manchester City in Premier League
Follow Us
Life’s not been a bed of roses for John Stones lately. The England international remains sidelined after picking up a controversial injury before the new year against Everton. The blow came after he went the extra mile, chasing a ball over the top, where Everton forward Beto was deemed offside only after the potential goal threat had passed. Now, weeks after the incident, while the linemen were scrutinized over their decision, referee Howard Webb candidly acknowledged that ‘the assistant did everything right‘.
This came in the latest installment of PL’s Match Officials Mic’d Up, where Professional Game Match Officials Limited- PGMOL’s Howard Webb gave his insights on all the crucial moments during matchweeks 17–21. Unsurprisingly, the discussion went to John Stones’ injury on December 28. Ederson’s injury against Newcastle, where he got wounded in a collision during an attack and the linesman delayed the offside flag, was also discussed. Taking both incidents into account, he said, “The flag was delayed because the assistant knew it was close and we know that he was 3cm offside because we track every offside the decision.”
“So the assistant did everything right,” he concluded. Although Webb knows such situations attract ‘negative attention,’ it is done eventually to allow the deserved goals to stand without interrupting the play. “As long as we only do it in those circumstances, which reduces the number of times, and we keep pointing out to our officials when they are too cautious and delay when they don’t need to. That way, we can limit the number of times that can happen [and] reduce the risk of injury,” Webb concluded.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
This analysis will surely prove to lower the frustrations around John Stones’ injury, considering that the fanbase would have now heard the other side of the story. Speaking of which, when will he return to action?
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
When will John Stones take the field again?
Currently, there is no set date for John Stones’ comeback. The 29-year-old has been described as ‘Out’ in almost every game since the start of this campaign. It seems likely that the defender’s services will not be available to the Sky Blues for the rest of January as well.
“Even Better Than Lionel Messi” – After Kevin De Bruyne Buried Newcastle United, Frank Leboeuf Praises Manchester City Star’s Vision
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
However, not all hope is lost. Manchester City’s medical staff is currently working with the player to help him recuperate in the coming weeks. Speaking of other injuries, while Kevin De Bruyne returned this week, Erling Haaland is still sidelined. Meanwhile, Ederson and Manuel Akanji are expected to make a comeback sooner than ever.
Trending
Who is Cristiano Ronaldo’s Eldest Son Cristiano Jr’s Biological Mother?
July 12, 2023 09:29 AM EDT
“Rest in Peace” – Soccer World Joins Manchester City in Mourning Former Club Player Ian Mellor’s Tragic Loss
May 01, 2024 12:18 PM EDT
Fact Check: Is Lionel Messi’s Mother Lebanese? Uncovering the Truth Behind Celia’s Nationality
March 30, 2024 02:46 PM EDT
Cristiano Ronaldo Told to Make Incredible MLS Switch to LAFC- “Come to the United States”
April 30, 2024 08:50 AM EDT
Ryan Reynolds Labels Wrexham Takeover as ‘Financially Irresponsible Endeavor’ Days After Recording $6.4 Million in Losses
May 02, 2024 12:15 PM EDT
Get instantly notified of the hottest Soccer stories via Google! Click on Follow Us and Tap the Blue Star.
Follow Us
WATCH THIS STORY: Ten Times Cristiano Ronaldo Four Goals in a Game
Edited by:
Daniel D'Cruz