The controversy over the punishment for head-high tackles was cranked up further on Monday night when West Ham defender Winston Reid escaped a card of any kind for his challenge on Huddersfield Town’s Steve Mounié.

The Benin international striker was left clutching his face after he was caught by Reid’s swinging boot but referee Kevin Friend decided not to show a card.

His show of leniency produced a backlash among Liverpool supporters on social media as they pointed out that Jon Moss had shown a red card to Sadio Mané for his studs-up tackle on Manchester City goalkeeper Ederson on Saturday. Gary Neville, who has highlighted the weekend's inconsistencies, also tweeted his bemusement.

The Brazilian needed stitches in his face and Mané will serve a three-match ban although Liverpool have announced they will appeal against the length of the suspension.