A red card controversy has left Liverpool FC fans wondering: How many games will Dominik Szoboszlai miss?
The Hungarian defender, a makeshift right-back due to injury woes, started the game at Anfield with a bang, scoring a stunning free kick. But the tide quickly turned, with Bernardo Silva equalizing and Erling Haaland sealing the deal for Manchester City from the spot.
A late drama unfolded as Cherki's shot dribbled into the open net, but VAR intervened, ruling out the goal due to a foul on Szoboszlai, the makeshift right-back. This incident led to Szoboszlai's controversial red card.
Here's the twist: Szoboszlai will only miss one game! Premier League rules state that denying a clear goalscoring opportunity warrants a single-match suspension. So, he'll be out for Liverpool's midweek clash against Sunderland.
But the good news is, he could be back in action for the FA Cup game against Brighton on February 14th and the Premier League fixture against Nottingham Forest shortly after.
With both of his usual right-back options, Frimpong and Bradley, injured, and Joe Gomez, their temporary replacement, also doubtful due to a hip injury, Liverpool's options are limited. Curtis Jones, who has previously played at right full-back, might get the nod for this crucial game in their quest for Champions League football.
Sunday's defeat saw Liverpool slip further down the table, losing ground on Manchester United and Chelsea in the race for the top five. Now, they're five points behind United in fourth and four points adrift of fifth-placed Chelsea.
And this is the part most people miss: with Szoboszlai's absence, Liverpool's defense could be vulnerable. But will they rise to the challenge?
What do you think? Is one game enough of a punishment for denying a clear goalscoring opportunity? Share your thoughts in the comments!
