The Premier League has removed two video assistant referees (VAR) from the next round of fixtures following a major officiating error during Sunday’s Manchester derby involving Erling Haaland’s goal.
VAR official Matt Donohue and his assistant Blake Antrobus have reportedly been told by refereeing body Pro Ref that they will not be selected for matches between September 18 and 20.
The decision was reached by chief refereeing officer Howard Webb and his management team after reviewing the weekend’s matches and assessing the controversial incidents.
Both officials are expected to have their availability for future appointments reviewed after the upcoming international break.
The incident occurred in the 60th minute of the Manchester derby when Haaland found the back of the net after referee Michael Oliver had initially ruled the striker offside.
Donohue reviewed the decision using semi-automated offside technology and concluded that Haaland had been in an onside position, leading to Oliver’s original decision being overturned.
However, the VAR team reportedly failed to consider another infringement involving Enzo Fernández, who was in an offside position and was deemed to have interfered with play during the build-up to the goal.
Pro Ref subsequently acknowledged that the situation should have prompted Donohue to recommend an on-field review by Oliver instead of simply approving the goal.
The decision to temporarily remove both officials from Premier League duties highlights the seriousness with which the refereeing authorities have treated the error, particularly given the importance of the Manchester derby.
The incident has generated significant debate among clubs, pundits and supporters and has renewed discussions about accountability and decision-making within the Premier League’s officiating system.
According to reports, Donohue and Antrobus could return to the selection pool after the international break, although no definite date has been given for their return.
By: Prince Martey-Sogar