EPL: A mistake – Webb on VAR not overturning Bruno Fernandes’ red card vs Tottenham

PGMOL chief, Howard Webb, has admitted that Video Assistant Referee, VAR, should have overturned the red card shown to Manchester United captain, Bruno Fernandes, against Tottenham because the player slipped before contact was made.

United were already 1-0 down towards the end of the first half, when Fernandes was given his marching orders after appearing to catch James Maddison high on the leg.

Referee, Chris Kavanagh’s on-field decision to dismiss the midfielder was backed by VAR.

United eventually lost the game 3-0 and Webb believes VAR Peter Bankes should have stepped in to change the decision.

Webb said: “It was [a mistake]. We hear on the audio that the assistant said it was a red card offence and the referee takes that advice.

“The contact is high but Fernandes slips first. It’s not an attempt on the ball but from the assistants’ view it looks like studs go in – but it’s a slight error.

“There’s no driving the foot into the opponent, it’s more of a tripping action. VAR should have sent the referee to the screen.”