The Toffees will have a key striker back for their next Premier League match.
Everton has received a significant boost ahead of their clash with Aston Villa, as the red card issued to Dominic Calvert-Lewin in the FA Cup draw against Crystal Palace has been successfully appealed. The striker’s initial three-match ban has now been overturned.
Calvert-Lewin was controversially sent off in the second half of the 0-0 draw against Crystal Palace for a challenge on Nathaniel Clyne. The decision, made after a VAR review, puzzled players, fans, and even opposition defender Joachim Andersen, who later expressed his disagreement with the red card.
Everton, furious with the decision and other recent refereeing calls they perceived as going against them, officially appealed the red card on Friday afternoon. The Football Association subsequently ruled that the challenge did not warrant a red card, clearing Calvert-Lewin to play in the crucial clash against Aston Villa.
The incident adds to the ongoing debate surrounding VAR and refereeing decisions in English football. Critics point to the use of super slow-motion replays at the VAR monitor, which can sometimes exaggerate the severity of challenges.
Following their match against Aston Villa in the Premier League, Everton will take on Crystal Palace in the replay of their FA Cup fixture on Wednesday.
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