Everton successfully challenged the red card given to striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin during their FA Cup match against Crystal Palace.

Everton’s Dominic Calvert-Lewin will be relieved to know that he will be able to take part in the upcoming Premier League clash against Aston Villa this Sunday. The striker had initially been sent off in the FA Cup third-round match against Crystal Palace, but the decision has now been overturned.

During the game at Selhurst Park, Calvert-Lewin made a tackle on Nathaniel Clyne that went unnoticed by referee Chris Kavanagh. The official believed it was a fair challenge and allowed play to continue. However, VAR intervened and recommended that Kavanagh review the incident. After careful consideration, the referee decided to issue a straight red card to Calvert-Lewin for “serious foul play”.

Following the match, Everton manager expressed his frustration with the current state of officiating, stating that it needs to be improved. He believed that progress was being made, but recent events have made him question that. Despite his concerns, he remains a supporter of VAR, although his patience is being tested.

The red card meant that Calvert-Lewin was facing a three-match ban, which would have seen him miss the replay against Crystal Palace as well as the upcoming match against Fulham. However, Everton successfully appealed the decision, with the Football Association confirming that the England international was a victim of “wrongful dismissal”. As a result, Calvert-Lewin is now immediately available for selection.

This news will come as a relief to Everton fans, as Calvert-Lewin has been in fine form this season, scoring crucial goals for the team. His presence on the pitch will undoubtedly boost Everton’s chances against Aston Villa and in the upcoming fixtures.