Why Everton's Ashley Young wasn't sent off after conceding penalty vs Manchester United

Former Premier League referee Dermot Gallagher insists Manchester United deserved their penalty against Everton but VAR was right not to recommend Ashley Young be sent off.

Young was penalised for fouling Anthony Martial in the box but it needed a review, with on-pitch official John Brooks initially booking the United striker for simulation. After being sent to the screen, it became clear that the Everton defender initiated contact, allowing Marcus Rashford to score the second of three goals in a 3-0 win from the spot.

Having already been booked for a late challenge on Alejandro Garnacho, who gave him a torrid afternoon at Goodison Park, Young may have been fortunate not to have been dismissed for the second time this season. But while Gallagher believes the penalty call was correct, he suggested the decision not to brandish a second yellow was not clearly and obviously incorrect.

ALSO READ: Shaw's brilliant reaction to Garnacho goal in United moments missed vs Everton

ALSO READ: I was blown away by what United player did vs Everton... and it wasn't Garnacho

“I thought it was a penalty when I first saw it, and once you see a replay, it’s difficult to say it’s not a foul,” Gallagher told Sky Sports. “He dangles his leg, he doesn't get the ball and his leg is planted as well. When you see that I don't see anything other than a penalty.

“When you see it, does Martial see the leg and think ‘I’ve overrun the ball‘ and plant himself into the leg? I think Martial is happy to go after the ball but if you dangle a leg like that, you run the risk.

“The ref obviously thought it was careless. The big decision is whether it’s a penalty and that's correct. Is it a second yellow card? Possibly, but I wouldn’t say it's guaranteed.