Everton appeal Dominic Calvert-Lewin red card after VAR controversy

Everton have launched an appeal against the red card handed to Dominic Calvert-Lewin against Crystal Palace.

The forward was sent off amid controversy in the FA Cup third round at Selhurst Park after referee Chris Kavanagh was ordered to review his challenge on Nathaniel Clyne.

Kavanagh had seen no issue with the incident in real-time but, predictably, reversed his call once he was sent to the pitch side monitor.

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Everton deserve better than the VAR shambles they are continuously being served up

It was a contentious decision that has sparked outrage inside and outside the Everton camp. And while the Blues were still able to fight through the adversity and take the game to a replay it will have serious consequences for the club.

Calvert-Lewin is now due to miss three consecutive matches through suspension. The punishment comes at a time when the squad is exhausted and stretched after a loaded festive fixture list mired in controversy.

It also comes with the squad hit by injury - Idrissa Gueye, Abdoulaye Doucoure and Ashley Young were all absent from the squad at Palace.

As it stands, Calvert-Lewin will miss the Premier League match with Aston Villa and the FA Cup replay with Palace, both at Goodison Park. Should Everton qualify for the fourth round then Calvert-Lewin would also miss that fixture. If Palace left Goodison Park victorious then Calvert-Lewin’s third absence would be the Premier League trip to Fulham at the end of the month.

Whichever games he misses, the striker’s suspension poses an issue for Dyche at a difficult time for his squad. That it is the consequence of such a questionable call adds to the frustration.

The ECHO