‘So strange’ – Neville confused by Liverpool player’s odd move in wild Leeds United encounter.
Gary Neville was left searching for answers after a “strange” moment during the six-goal clash between Leeds United and Liverpool.
Mohamed Salah started on the bench for a third straight match under Arne Slot, but Hugo Ekitike stepped up, scoring twice to give Liverpool a 2–0 lead at Elland Road on Saturday, 6 December. The French forward punished a disastrous error from Joe Rodon and struck again soon after. Leeds, however, fought back through Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Anton Stach, even without Lukas Nmecha available.
Leeds had impressed against Chelsea using a new tactical setup, and despite Dominik Szoboszlai briefly quieting the home crowd with his goal, Ao Tanaka pulled the hosts level again.
Konate’s penalty incident raises eyebrows
Leeds were handed a lifeline when Ibrahima Konate brought down Willy Gnonto in the box—a moment Neville found baffling because of how the defender moved.
Replays showed Konate sliding with his arms folded into his chest. The challenge was judged “careless,” but Neville was puzzled by the defender’s body position.
Speaking on Sky Sports (6 December, 7:02pm), Neville said: “Anthony Taylor has described that decision better than I can. It’s a careless challenge.” As the referee announced the explanation to the stadium, Neville added, “He’s got his arm across his chest. Why is his hand there? Is it to avoid handball? It’s just odd.”
Konate’s future under even more scrutiny
Konate’s contract expires in 2026, and speculation around his future is growing. Football Insider reports that Liverpool are willing to sell him in January if a replacement becomes available.
The 26-year-old has endured a dreadful season, contributing heavily to Liverpool’s recent struggles and slide down the Premier League table. While he couldn’t do much about Tanaka’s late equaliser, his overall mentality has worsened Liverpool’s defensive issues—and his performance at Elland Road only added to the concerns.
