Newcastle United forward Anthony Gordon expressed his disappointment with the referees following their 3-2 defeat against Manchester United at Old Trafford on Wednesday. The winger believed he was fouled by Sofyan Amrabat, but despite the incident being reviewed by VAR, the on-field referee’s decision of no penalty stood.
Speaking to Sky Sports after the game, Gordon said, “I’m really sore. Not too sure how good my ankle will be. I have watched it back and it is a clear penalty. I don’t mind the referee getting it wrong on the pitch, but I don’t understand the point of VAR.”
Gordon further explained, “He [Sofyan Amrabat] goes down my Achilles and pushes me in the back. I knew straight away, that is why I didn’t appeal. I waited for the VAR to check, I told my teammates ‘it was a clear penalty’. I don’t understand the point of it, either get rid of it or get better – it’s that simple.”
Despite being fond of the idea behind VAR, Gordon believes there have been too many mistakes. He added, “I think I am quite fond of it. Fond of the idea and it should work, but there are too many mistakes.”
The incident has sparked a debate about the effectiveness of VAR in football, with many questioning its consistency and decision-making process. It remains to be seen if any changes will be made to address these concerns.
