Manchester derby VAR stood down from Premier League duty
The video assistant referee (VAR) and assistant VAR involved in the Manchester derby have been removed from upcoming Premier League duties. The refereeing body acknowledged that the decision to award Erling Haaland's goal was incorrect due to an offside oversight.
Why it matters
This highlights the ongoing controversy and accountability issues surrounding the implementation of VAR technology in professional sports.
Matt Donohue, the video assistant referee (VAR) who allowed Erling Haaland's winner in Manchester City's 1-0 victory over Manchester United , has not been selected to officiate at any of next weekend's Premier League fixtures.
Assistant VAR Blake Antrobus has also not been given any assignment after the refereeing body Pro Ref acknowledged in a statement that VAR was wrong to allow Haaland's decisive goal.
The decision was taken by chief refereeing officer Howard Webb and the management team, with neither official expected to return to duty until at least after the international break.
Haaland's second-half strike was initially ruled out for offside before being awarded following a VAR review that determined the Norwegian striker was onside.
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