Premier League boss contacted by FA over Manchester City complaints

Wolves boss Gary O’Neil has reportedly been approached by the Football Association for remarks he made suggesting that Premier League referees might "subconsciously" favour larger clubs. This comes after his side's 2-1 loss to Manchester City, which was decided by a contentious goal from John Stones in stoppage time, allowed after VAR intervention by referee Chris Kavanagh.

Initially disallowed for offside due to Bernardo Silva's position near goalkeeper Jose Sa, the goal was later given.

O’Neil expressed his views post-match, stating: "There’s no chance people are purposely against Wolves, let’s be clear. But is there something in the subconscious around the decision making – without even knowing it are you more likely to give it to Man City than Wolves? " He further questioned whether officials might be influenced by the stature of the opposition, asking: "My senses are heightened when we are facing Man City, are the officials the same? When it’s (Erling) Haaland and Man City is there something in there that, not on purpose, influences decision making? " According to PA news agency, the FA has since requested O’Neil to explain his comments.

"They guarantee me there isn’t. But they are human and Man City scoring a last-minute winner is a big thing, a bigger thing than Wolves scoring a last-minute goal against West Ham."

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"If I had to upset someone in the street and there’s a big and little guy in the street, I’m upsetting the little guy."

The pivotal moment centred on whether Silva, who found himself offside, had obstructed Sa's view as he sought to save Stones' powerful header. Just before Stones made contact, Silva seemed to move away from the keeper, leading Kavanagh to determine there was no interference with Sa’s line of sight.

The Premier League’s match centre updated its Twitter status: "Stones’ goal was disallowed on-field due to Bernardo Silva being in an offside position and in the goalkeeper’s line of vision."

"The VAR assessed that Bernardo Silva wasn't interfering with play or the goalie's line of sight and recommended the referee have another look. Following the on-field review, the referee reversed his initial decision, resulting in the goal standing."