Premier League issue statement on VAR controversy in West Ham vs Man Utd
Manchester United looked set to claim a point against West Ham on Sunday - only for a late penalty decision to hand Jarrod Bowen a golden chance to score late on for the home side
by Daniel Orme · The MirrorThe Premier League have explained that Matthijs de Ligt's challenge on Danny Ings was enough to see West Ham handed a controversial penalty in their dramatic 2-1 win over Manchester United.
The Red Devils looked to be on their way to a point at the London Stadium after Casemiro had cancelled out Crysencio Summerville's opener. But there was to be a late sting as the hosts were awarded a stoppage-time penalty.
A collision between De Ligt and Ings was ignored by the on-field referee, only for VAR to intervene. A review was recommended, with the original call being overturned and a penalty awarded to West Ham.
And the Premier League have now explained the controversial call. A statement on Sunday read: "The referee did not award a penalty to West Ham for a challenge by de Ligt on Ings. The VAR deemed there was sufficient contact on Ings’ lower leg and recommended an on-field review. The referee overturned his original decision and awarded a penalty."
Fans took to social media to slam the decision. One wrote: "Is it just me or is that one of the worst penalty decisions you’re likely to see? Not all contact is a penalty! Football in the PL has become a none contact sport." Another said: "Honestly that was an awful call from VAR and Michael Oliver. @FA_PGMOL Disgraceful decision."
The defeat - the Red Devils' fourth in the league already this season - leaves boss Erik ten Hag in an uncomfortable position. United languish in 14th spot on just 11 points from nine games.
It could see Sir Jim Ratcliffe forced into a decision on Ten Hag's future sooner rather than later. The Red Devils are back in action in midweek as they welcome Leicester to Old Trafford for a Carabao Cup showdown.
What went wrong for United vs West Ham? Share your thoughts in the comments below
They are then back in action at the weekend for a showdown with Chelsea. The Blues were also involved in stoppage-time controversy on Sunday.
Enzo Maresca's side saw off Newcastle 2-1 after goals from Nicolas Jackson and Cole Palmer. But Chelsea looked as though they were handed a chance to wrap up victory from the penalty spot as Christopher Nkunku was fouled.
Despite the penalty being awarded, VAR had a say, with the decision being overturned upon review. A further statement from the Premier League read: "The referee awarded a penalty to Chelsea for a foul by Burn on Nkunku. The VAR deemed that no foul was committed and recommended an on-field review. The referee overturned the original decision and play restarted with a drop ball."
Join our new WhatsApp communityand receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.
This article contains affiliate links, we will receive a commission on any sales we generate from it. Learn more
Sky Sports deal
Sky Sports launches discounted Premier League package
£46 (was £56)
Sky has slashed the price of its Sky Sports, Sky Stream, Sky TV and Netflix bundle in an unbeatable new deal that saves £240 and includes 1,400 live matches across the Premier League, EFL and more.