Controversial corner tactics have been a topic this season, with Everton pushing the limits during their match against United.
Moyes’ team earned 10 corners and actively tried to score from one, but United’s goalkeeper Senne Lammens had a standout performance that kept them at bay.
United has dealt with similar tactics before, such as during their match against Arsenal, which drew criticism from Clattenburg. However, Everton’s approach seemed even more extreme.
Lammens faced obstruction behind his goal line, and Everton players often pushed their markers regardless of the ball’s position.
Clattenburg believes referees need to take stronger measures to curb this behavior.
He stated, “I have mentioned before that referees should crack down on holding and blocking during corner kicks. In the recent match between Everton and Manchester United, the goalkeeper was clearly impeded, and both defenders and attackers were holding each other.”
“This trend appears to have grown due to the rise of set-piece coaches, leading to an increase in goals from corners compared to previous seasons. Referees need to recognize player intentions and enforce penalties. Without this, goalkeepers will continue to face obstruction.”
Man Utd’s set-piece success built on more than just physicality
Unlike some teams, United can critique these tactics without being hypocritical.
They rank among the Premier League’s best for set-piece goals, achieving this through strategic routines rather than simply crowding the goalkeeper.
Everton’s tactic seemed like a shortcut rather than a strategy, while United has demonstrated more effective ways to create chances from corners.
This season, their structured methods have led to successful outcomes, such as Bryan Mbeumo’s goal against Spurs and Luke Shaw’s near-miss against West Ham, both resulting from well-planned plays rather than brute force.
Stricter enforcement from referees could benefit the league by improving this increasingly chaotic aspect of the game.