Why Bruno Fernandes’ Manchester derby goal was not ruled out as offside

There was some controversy surrounding Bruno Fernandes’ goal in Saturday’s Manchester derby, but former referee Peter Walton said it was right for the goal to stand.

After Manchester City led 1-0 at Old Trafford, Casemiro played Marcus Rashford behind City’s defense but the England striker was clearly ruled offside.

Running for the ball, Bruno Fernandes also shot forward from an offside position and before Rashford touched the ball, the Portuguese midfielder made an excellent finish against Ederson.

Manchester City’s defenders were frustrated when they played as if Rashford was about to be tagged, but Walton explained that he was not offside as he did not touch the ball or interfere with a defender.

“I think that’s a goal. Rashford made an effort for the ball, didn’t disturb an opponent playing the ball, didn’t play the ball himself,” Walton told BT Sport.

Quite rightly the flag goes up for offside, but if the VAR looks at it and or the assistant [referee] Stuart Attwell, I think the target should be standing.’

Of his goal, Fernandes told BT Sport: “I was in front of goal, Marcus probably saw I was in a better position.

“I didn’t know if one of us was offside. He had no influence on the defenders. It is what it is.”