Paul Merson Wants Refs Hit With 3 Strict Penalties After Oliver-VAR Everton BlunderMichael Oliver and co under fire again!
Sky Sports pundit Paul Merson has launched a scathing attack on Premier League refereeing standards, demanding three strict penalties for officials following yet another controversial display by Michael Oliver and VAR during Everton’s 3-3 draw against Manchester City.
The Toffees looked on course for a massive victory when they led 3-2 deep into stoppage time at Goodison Park. However, a clear penalty appeal was waved away after Bernardo Silva appeared to drag Everton substitute Merlin Rohl to the ground inside the box. Neither Michael Oliver nor the VAR team intervened, leaving Everton fans and manager David Moyes furious as City escaped with a point.Speaking after the match, Merson did not hold back.
The Arsenal legend described the refereeing as “scandalous” and called for immediate reforms. According to Merson, referees and VAR officials involved in major howlers should face:Lengthy suspensions from Premier League duties
Significant financial fines docked from their salaries
Public demotions or mandatory retraining to ensure accountability
“Enough is enough,” Merson raged. “These mistakes keep happening week after week. Players and managers get punished for errors, but referees just walk away. It’s not good enough for the Premier League.”The incident has sparked fresh debate about the consistency of VAR and the PGMOL’s ability to police its own. Evertondropped two vital points in their European fight, while Manchester City were handed a valuable lifeline in the title race.Merson’s strong stance reflects growing frustration across English football.
Many fans and pundits believe officials are shielded from the consequences of game-changing decisions. Whether the Premier League and PGMOL will listen remains to be seen, but pressure is mounting for real change.Will this latest controversy finally force meaningful refereeing reform, or will it be business as usual? Only time will tell.