‘Michael Oliver will never ref Man United again’ – reaction as VAR audio emerges
Man United fans are furious with referee David Coote and VAR Michael Oliver after the audio for the penalty decision in their 2-1 defeat to West Ham was released.
Coote, 42, was the referee for what would be Erik ten Hag’s final game as manager, awarding a 92nd penalty to the visitors after Matthijs de Ligt’s challenge on Danny Ings.
The referee initially waved play-on after the tackle but was summoned to the screen on the side of the field by VAR to get a second look.
In the audio, both match ref Coote and Oliver, 39, in the VAR room agree that Ings never had control of the ball but decided to change the on-field decision, costing Man United a vital two points and ultimately getting Ten Hag sacked.
PGMOL chief and former referee Howard Webb later came out and admitted the decision to award the penalty was wrong.
Speaking on Sky Sports’ Match Officials Mic’d Up, Webb said: “I thought it was a misread by the VAR. A VAR that’s normally really talented and reliable, but gets uber-focused in this situation on De Ligt’s leg.
“His leg coming through on to Danny Ings, not making any contact with the ball. The ball’s already past De Ligt as he makes contact with Danny Ings.”
Having a second referee embroiled in controversy is the last this PGMOL need after footage of Coote’s foul-mouthed tirade against Liverpool and Jurgen Klopp leaked.
A bad week for David Coote and Michael Oliver after latest Man United controversy
Oliver is the latest official to get fans on his back, with many taking to X, formally known as Twitter to voice their frustrations over the decision.
In other news, Ten Hag tipped to thrive in new job – Man United fans react to surprise twist.
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