Referees’ chief Howard Webb says West Ham should not have been awarded a penalty during Erik ten Hag’s final game in charge of Manchester United.
Julen Lopetegui’s side were given the decision on the recommendation of video assistant referee Michael Oliver, after reviewing the footage of Matthijs de Ligt’s challenge on Danny Ings.
Jarrod Bowen scored the penalty to seal a 2-1 win for the Hammers, with United boss Erik ten Hag sacked less than 24 hours later.
“I thought it was a misread by the VAR,” Webb told Sky Sports’ Mic’d Up programme. “A VAR that is normally really talented and reliable but gets uber-focused, in this situation, on De Ligt’s leg.
“His leg coming through onto Danny Ings, not making any contact with the ball. The ball is already past De Ligt as he makes contact with Danny Ings – and the VAR sees that as a clear foul.
“I think he was too focused on that aspect. I don’t think he should have got involved.
“I think this is a situation where we would leave the on-field decision as it is, probably whichever way it is called. On balance, I don’t think it is a penalty kick.”
On-field referees are not required to follow the recommendations of the VAR official.
“They are told that they are absolutely within their rights to keep their decision when they go to the screen,” added Webb.
