Arsenal got themselves over the line against Burnley tonight to edge towards the title but VAR was once again at the centre of things.
The Gunners had a goal from Kai Havertz to thank for the three points as the German rose highest to nod in Bukayo Saka’s corner.
However, things could have got much worse for both Arsenal and Havertz in particular midway through the second half.
Havertz slid in to take out Lesley Ugochukwu and on second look, it looked a shocker. Still, VAR decided a yellow card was enough and the German was quickly replaced by Viktor Gyokeres.
But according to former referee Mark Clattenburg, Havertz was extremely lucky to stay on.
After his goal tonight, tell us why Kai Havertz should or shouldn’t start the Champions League final
Mark Clattenburg says Kai Havertz should have been sent off
Everyone in the stadium and watching on TV held their breath as the VAR ran the rule over the tackle from Havertz.
In the end, he was cleared but speaking exclusively to Arsenal Insider, Clattenburg has said that Havertz should have walked.
“Kai Havertz is very fortunate not to receive a red card for a challenge on Burnley’s Lesley Ugochukwu. Havertz was nowhere near the ball and catches his opponent with his studs on the back of the leg,” Clattenburg exclusively told Arsenal Insider.
“This challenge had a degree of force and malice and deserved a red card and was amazed the VAR did not recommend a review for a red card. The PGMOL this weekend have not covered themselves in glory regarding refereeing. Again this is another example.”
With Arsenal getting a VAR call in their favour at West Ham last week and now getting another one in their favour with Havertz, it’s felt like the footballing gods are on their side.
After so many years of Arsenal fans grumbling and complaining about the VAR technology and certain decisions against them, this season, it seems to have got them over the line.
In the end, they won’t care. But Arsenal cannot win the title and think they haven’t had a bit of luck along the way.
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