Referees’ Chief Howard Webb Labels West Ham Penalty Decision a ‘Misread’ by VAR

Howard Webb, the head of referees, has asserted that West Ham should not have been awarded a penalty during Erik ten Hag’s final match as manager of Manchester United. Julen Lopetegui’s team received the penalty decision following a recommendation from video assistant referee Michael Oliver, after he reviewed footage of Matthijs de Ligt’s challenge on Danny Ings. Jarrod Bowen subsequently scored the penalty, securing a 2-1 victory for the Hammers. Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag was dismissed from his position less than 24 hours later. Speaking on Sky Sports’ Mic’d Up programme, Webb stated, “I thought it was a misread by the VAR,” adding, “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.” He further explained, “I think he was too focused on that aspect. I don’t think he should have got involved.” Webb concluded his assessment by saying, “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 compelled to follow the recommendations made by the VAR official. Webb further clarified, “They are told that they are absolutely within their rights to keep their decision when they go to the screen.”