Ex-refs chief wants change in 'VAR protocol' after Tottenham player embroiled in international storm

Tottenham Hotspur's Ben Davies should have conceded a penalty in Wales' clash against Denmark, but escaped thanks to VAR.

That is according to former PGMOL chief and ex-FIFA referee, Keith Hackett, who exclusively told Football Insider that the Wales captain was careless with his challenge inside the area.

Craig Bellamy's side ended their international break in third place in Nations League A Group 4, but it could have been much better.

The Red Wall looked set to be treated to a clean sheet until Danny Ward dropped a clanger, but only because the referee missed a blatant penalty earlier in the game.

In the 21st minute, after Gustav Isaksen had a shot inside the area, Davies came sliding in and caught his opponent quite painfully.

The incident became a huge talking point, especially at the half-time break, and pundits were split over the 33-year-old's careless challenge.

Ben Davies escapes needless penalty vs Denmark

Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, Hackett was in no doubt that it was a penalty, and the referee's access to VAR needs to change moving forward.

"I think that's a penalty kick, even though there was a sort of delayed reaction by the forward going to ground," he said.

"That challenge, with almost a straight leg, is not a challenge that a defender should be making. I don't think he's attempted to play the ball.

"He's played the man so, therefore, I think it should have been a penalty kick, for sure. The positive aspect of VAR is the referee can have a second look.

"He can do nothing if that VAR controller doesn't ask him to go and look at the screen. This is where I think I would change the protocol.

"I think on what might be an iffy decision, one that the referee would like to have had a second look for clarification, I think the referee ought to be able to say, 'I'm going to have a look'."

Wales captain could be what Tottenham need

Davies has only made six first-team appearances over the last two seasons in North London, but he remains an important figure in the squad.

With over a century of caps for Wales, he is undoubtedly one of the most experienced players at Roberto De Zerbi's disposal, and that could be what the Lilywhites need right now.

After five games, Spurs are sitting rock-bottom of the Premier League table, seemingly playing like there's no leader or nobody steering the ship.

Davies can absolutely be that player for De Zerbi, but the manager would undoubtedly turn some heads by starting him against Manchester United.