Premier League Match Centre explain why VAR did not overturn Andy Robertson's foul on Tyler Dibling during Southampton vs Liverpool

The Premier League have released a statement clarifying the decision to award Southampton a controversial penalty in their clash against Liverpool.

With five minutes remaining of the first-half at St Mary's, Liverpool centre-back Virgil van Dijk gave the ball away trying to pull off a back-heel.

Moments later, the impressive Tyler Dibling was tripped by Andy Robertson and, to the surprise of many, referee Samuel Barrott pointed to the penalty spot.

It was a tight call, no doubt, but after a lengthy check, the onfield decision remained as VAR Michael Oliver deemed there was "no conclusive evidence" that the contact occurred outside the penalty area.

After much debate between fans on social media, the Premier League Match Centre released a statement.

It read: "The referee’s call of penalty for the challenge by Robertson on Dibling is checked and confirmed by VAR, who deemed there was no conclusive evidence that the contact occurred outside the penalty area."

Here's how fans on social media reacted to the incident.

One said: "I’m sorry but that is not a penalty. IT’S OUTSIDE THE BOX," while another commented: "It’s just inside and Robertson’s foot was on the line when the foul happened."

A third wrote: "We just watched Michael Oliver literally watch that player dive and dive outside the box and recommend a penalty. What a scam."

A fourth said: "So, apparently, if you foul someone outside the box and you’re wearing a Liverpool jersey, that’s now a penalty," and a fifth added: "How exactly is that a penalty against Liverpool? The tackle was outside the box, not inside."

Image credit: Sky Sports

Southampton striker Adam Armstrong went on to equalise for Russell Martin's side after he converted the rebound from Caoimhin Kelleher's initial save from 12 yards.

Thoughts on the decision? Let us know in the comments.