Ezri Konsa calls Elliott Anderson tackle dangerous as Aston Villa anger over VAR grows | OneFootball

Ezri Konsa says Elliott Anderson’s tackle on Ollie Watkins was dangerous as Aston Villa’s fury at officials lingers after their Europa League defeat to Nottingham Forest.

As reported by ExpressAndStar.com, the defender joined Unai Emery in criticising the decision not to dismiss Anderson for a first-half challenge during Thursday’s semi-final first leg.

Referee Joao Pinheiro did not award a foul and VAR took no retrospective action, which Emery described as a “huge, huge mistake”.

Konsa admitted he missed the incident in real time but, on review, felt it was dangerous and that VAR did not take sufficient time to assess it, adding that such incidents are sometimes missed.

Emery was left furious, claiming the challenge put Watkins’ ankle at risk and that Villa were baffled by the lack of intervention.

Later, VAR Tiago Martins advised a penalty to Forest after Lucas Digne handled, overturning an initial call that the ball had gone out. Chris Wood converted for the only goal of the night.

Villa’s director of football operations Damian Vidagany questioned on social media why VAR did not at least review a red card for Anderson, calling it a major mistake that left the referee unsupported and saying UEFA’s officials would agree it was unfair.

Despite the anger, Konsa believes Villa can overturn the 1-0 deficit next week, stressing the team’s belief and the backing they expect at a loud, intimidating Villa Park.

Source: ExpressAndStar.com