Professional Game Referees (Pro Ref) chief, Howard Webb, has claimed that VAR’s “tunnel vision” led to the controversial decision to award Manchester City striker, Erling Haaland’s winner against Manchester United in a Premier League fixture last Sunday.
Webb was speaking on the first edition of Match Officials Mic’d Up this season.
He expressed his disappointment over the error made by VAR Matt Donohue and his assistant, Blake Antrobus.
“I was really disappointed with this outcome. We all are,” Webb said.
“None more so than the officials themselves. They take a lot of personal pride in what they do and they’re obviously hurting now, having fallen short in this situation.
“They’ll not be officiating again until after the international break.”
Haaland’s goal in the 60th minute was initially ruled out for offside by the on-field officials.
However, it was awarded after a VAR review, although there is still controversy over City midfielder Enzo Fernandez, who was in an offside position as he attempted to reach the ball before Haaland.
Although Fernandez did not touch the ball, his movement appeared to affect Manchester United defender Lisandro Martinez.
EPL: Why VAR allowed Halaand’s goal against Man Utd – Howard Webb