Premier League VAR table shows one team have every right to feel aggrieved
VAR has been present in the Premier League since 2019 and been a controversial addition to the division where Wolverhampton Wanderers perhaps having more cause to complain than most
by Scott Trotter · The MirrorWolverhampton Wanderers have seen 20 more decisions overturned by VAR to their detriment, than those that have gone their way over the last five seasons.
Since VAR was introduced to the Premier League, Wolves stand clear as the team who will likely feel the most hard done by, per EPSN. West Ham are the team to see the second greatest, negative imbalance with seven more decisions going against them.
Of the 13 ever-present teams in the division since VAR was implemented in 2019/20, Brighton have seen nine more decisions turn in their favour compared to those that haven't and Newcastle six. Only north London rivals Tottenham and Arsenal have also seen more decisions overturned against them than for, in addition to Wolves and the Irons.
The Midlands side saw their negative tally grow worse when John Stones' 95th-minute goal was awarded after intervention by the video assistant, having initially been flagged as offside. Gary O'Neil was left perplexed by the decision and post-match, hinted at subconscious bias among officials.
The Football Association have since contacted the Wolves boss and asked for his observations following his comments. O’Neil, whose club called for VAR to be scrapped last season, did attempt to convey that such actions were not intentional.
He said: “There’s no chance people are purposely against Wolves - if we ever get to that, then the game’s in a bad place.
“But is there something in the subconscious around decision-making? Without even knowing it, are you more likely to give it to Manchester City than Wolves?
“Referees are human, and Manchester City scoring a last-minute winner is a big thing, so maybe there’s something subconsciously that you’re less likely to get those decisions."
O'Neil's confusion particularly arose following a similar incident seeing a different outcome for his side. "It was similar to a goal [Wolves had disallowed] against West Ham last season," he told Sky Sports.
"We sent an image to referees showing with proof that the West Ham keeper could see the ball, but the reason were given was the player was in close proximity. The same argument could be said here but we just have to accept it.
"I would rather not discuss it because it will still sound like I am making excuses. Whatever decision they make, I respect. We don't want to cross that line, but it did feel like a harsh one. I am proud of the players though. An unbelievable effort and we gave ourselves a great chance. I am gutted for the players that we had to leave with nothing."
Premier League VAR decisions overturned net score
Brighton +9
Newcastle +6
Man City +5
Aston Villa +3
Crystal Palace +3
Liverpool +3
Man United +3
Chelsea +2
Everton +1
Tottenham -3
Arsenal -6
West Ham -7
Wolves -20
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