Tottenham news: Pundit hits back at Antonio Conte as controversial BT Sport footage analysed
Noel Whelan has defended the time it took to disallow Tottenham striker Harry Kane’s last-gasp winner against Sporting CP in the Champions League on Wednesday (26 October).
The former Leeds striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, insisted VAR should be afforded time to “get decisions right” – especially when “fine margins” are involved.
Kane thought he had netted the winner against Sporting to send Spurs through to the knockout stage but was eventually found to be marginally offside following a three-minute consultation with VAR.
Eric Dier claimed the ball from Emerson Royal to Kane went backwards, but the direction of play was irrelevant as the striker was stood in an offside position.
A Sporting player also got a touch to the ball before Kane, but this is also irrelevant as it wasn’t a clear and deliberate attempt to play the ball.
Speaking post-match and quoted by football.london, Antonio Conte insisted he “didn’t see honesty” in the decision and maintained that the goal should have been allowed.
The Italian was sent off for his protests and will not be allowed on the touchline for next week’s (1 November) game against Marseille.
When asked if being correct or being quick is more important for VAR, Whelan told Football Insider’s Ewan Kingsbury: “Being correct, all day long.
“That’s the biggest issue, for me. Sometimes they’ve made a quick decision, but it’s wrong and you’re in trouble.
“It’s about getting it right. Once you do, everyone can sit back and be happy with a decision – especially when fine margins are involved.
“We’ve seen some very bad VAR decisions. I’d much prefer them to take their time, look it over, and make the right decision.
“I think most managers will understand that. If they take the time to get it right there can be no arguments.”
In other news, Tottenham expert points the finger at Hugo Lloris after footage emerges.