Gary Lineker suggested Edinson Cavani should not have been on the pitch to score Manchester United's winner against Everton.
Cavani lashed inside the far post in the 88th minute of the Carabao Cup tie to send United through to the semi-finals.
But the Uruguay veteran was fortunate not to see red in the 52nd minute of the match after he grabbed Yerry Mina by the throat and the Everton defender fell to the ground.
Referee Andrew Madley missed the incident off the ball and video assistant referee (VAR) was not in operation to review the coming together between the two players.
Cavani, 33, avoiding punishment for his actions played a key role in the result, according to Lineker, who took to social media with an old adage after the full-time whistle blew at Goodison Park.
"It’s always the bloke that perhaps should’ve seen red that gets you," the Match of the Day presenter wrote on Twitter. "Superb finish from Cavani, though."
Lineker's full-time tweet followed his remarks during the match, when he wrote: "Cavani would have seen red with VAR."
Asked by a follower whether he is now in favour of VAR, the former England striker responded: No. Just stating what I think would have happened.
"The way it’s being used the game’s better off without it regardless of the odd error."
Cavani's excellent weak-foot finish, which was followed by Anthony Martial's strike deep into added time, was his fourth goal of the season on his 12th appearance.
Everton boss Carlo Ancelotti hailed Cavani for his "fantastic" goal in his post-match interview but admitted he did not see the incident with Mina.
He added: "I don't know, I didn't see the situation with Mina."
Should Edinson Cavani have been sent off after grabbing Yerry Mina by the throat? Have your say here.
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