Premier League sparks confusion by deleting statement on ban for Liverpool’s Slot

Arne Slot could still be in the dugout for Liverpool’s Premier League match against Wolves this weekend despite apparently receiving a two-match touchline ban for his red card at the end of a fiery Merseyside derby.

Liverpool were on course to extend their lead at the top of the Premier League to nine points at Everton on Wednesday but James Tarkowski struck a stunning volley to level in the eighth minute of stoppage time.

Abdoulaye Doucoure’s wild celebrations in front of the away fans sparked a furious reaction, with Liverpool midfielder Curtis Jones confronting Doucoure, leading to the dismissal of both men.

With some supporters on the pitch, stewards and police became involved before Slot and assistant Sipke Hulshoff were also sent off by referee Michael Oliver.

The Premier League said on its website earlier Thursday that Slot had been punished.

“Liverpool head coach Arne Slot was dismissed at the end of the Merseyside derby for using offensive, insulting, or abusive language,” it said in a statement

“He is handed a two-match touchline ban as a result.”

But that statement was subsequently deleted.

It is understood the Football Association needs to review Oliver’s report before making a decision on what action to take, if any, and a decision may not come before Sunday’s match at Anfield.

Slot served a one-match touchline ban earlier this season after picking up three yellow cards.

Doucoure and Jones will both serve one-match bans.

Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk said he was keen to move on quickly from the frustration of conceding a late equaliser at Goodison Park.

“That hurt and should hurt for each one of us but it is the reality,” said the Dutch international.

“You have two things you can do — you can dwell on it and stay angry about it or you can take it on board, start the recovery and be ready for Wolves because that will be a difficult test again and I think that’s the best thing to do.”

Wednesday’s draw in the final derby at Goodison, ahead of Everton’s move to a new ground, left Liverpool seven points clear of Arsenal at the top of the Premier League with 14 games remaining.