Brendan Rodgers and the offside rule: a match made in heaven
It would seem that Liverpool gaffer Brendan Rodgers has nary a clue when it comes to the offside rule.
Monday evening's 0-0 draw between Arsenal and Liverpool was littered with talking points, none more pivotal than an Aaron Ramsey goal that was ruled offside.
(photo courtesy: @joshwhitesays)
Forget the fact that a brilliant pass from Santi Cazorla and a calm finish from the Welsh international were canceled out, the job of today's linesmen is not an easy one, and errors in judgment are bound to happen.
With that in mind, Rodgers' comments during the post-match media scrum seem that much more dubious.
Brendan Rodgers on Ramsey disallowed goal: 'I have seen a replay, his shirt looks offside ... great decision by the linesman'
— Sam Wallace (@SamWallaceIndy) August 24, 2015
His shirt was offside? A Premier League fan would be hard pressed to find a snugger, more form-fitting kit than that of Arsenal, but surely Rodgers isn't that daft.
Managers, whether it be Rodgers, Jose Mourinho, or a more reserved type like Manuel Pellegrini, the gaffer will usually say that which compliments his squad the most. It's human nature and it's completely understandable, but to question the legitimacy of an offside ruling after having benefited from one not once, but twice in consecutive weeks is to mess with fate.
Following a 1-0 victory over Bournemouth on an offside goal by summer signing Christian Benteke that was later deemed a mistake by Premier League brass, it's a curious decision by Rodgers to comment on any offside ruling.
As the adage which pertains to any sport using judges or referees, don't leave it in the hand of the officials if you don't want to get burned.
Brendan Rodgers - 2, legitimate offside calls - 0.