THE Premier League rushed to explain Andy Robertson's controversial red card in Liverpool's dramatic clash against Fulham.
The defender cut across and hauled down ex-Reds winger Harry Wilson just outside the box after 17 minutes.
Whistler Tony Harrington eventually dismissed the Scot - sparking divided opinion from fans on social media.
Some fans were perplexed by the delay before Robertson left the pitch - but Prem chiefs issued a statement to clarify the reason.
The statement read: "The referee issued a red card to Robertson for a foul on Wilson which denied a goal scoring opportunity.
"VAR checked to confirm the red card and that Wilson was in an onside position."
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Robertson had deflected in Andreas Pereira's opener for Fulham six minutes earlier.
The red card meant Prem leaders Liverpool were up against it before eventually earning a draw against the Cottagers.
Cody Gakpo equalised for the Reds before Rodrigo Muniz put Fulham back in front.
Substitute Diogo Jota score another equaliser on 86mins as the match ended 2-2.
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Some fans reckoned Robertson was harshly done by - but others claimed he'd obviously robbed the visitors of a clear scoring chance.
But it was certainly true that it was his poor touch that caused the situation - as it let in Wilson to zoom into the danger zone.
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In the end Robertson flew into a tangle with Wilson that sent the Welsh wideman tumbling over.
Fulham almost scored from the loose ball anyway.
But when Harrington blew for the foul - and flashed his red card - Robertson and his team-mates protested in vain.
One viewer posted: "No way the referee gave Andrew Robertson red card for this after not giving 2 blatant ones [for two Fulham challenges]."
But others suggested the left-back has struggled for form since returning from injury - and might need replacing in the January transfer window.
One wrote: "What an absolute stinking afternoon for Andrew Robertson. Had that collision earlier, then deflected Pereira's shot in and then has been sent off."
Another added: "Andy Robertson has been woeful since coming back from injury. Two penalties conceded and now sent off. I think we need a new left back."