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Ex-Premier League referee 'amazed' by VAR error as controversial Almiron footage emerges from Newcastle
Newcastle United should have been awarded a penalty in their 1-0 win over Burnley, according to Keith Hackett.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the ex-Fifa and Premier League referee admitted Paul Tierney would have struggled to see James Tarkowski’s handball but VAR should have intervened.
As shown on the BBC’s Match of the Day programme, Tarkowski appeared to block a Miguel Almiron shot from close range by extending his left arm.
The game was goalless at the time but Callum Wilson scored Newcastle’s winner moments later as they picked up three points for the first time this season.
“I do think Newcastle should have had a penalty in this game,” Hackett said after analysing the footage with Football Insider correspondent Connor Whitley.
“What he’s done, Tarkowski is turned his body but he’s got his left arm out. His left arm is extended from his body which has made his body shape better. I think he’s got enough time to see it and withdraw his arm, he doesn’t do that.
“It’s a penalty kick for me. It’s amazing. I think it’s an error or they didn’t see it as we see it.
“It’s an impossible decision for the referee because the body of the defender is covering the ball. The referee hasn’t got a chance. The assistant has got one view and he might have had a view.
“This is where VAR comes in. VAR could have helped the situation but it didn’t.”
The result lifted Newcastle off the bottom of the Premier League table.
They are now just three points off safety with Watford occupying 17th-position on 13 points.
In other news, Newcastle United have been told to complete the ‘shock’ signing of an ‘amazing’ Liverpool player not in the XI.