The Premier League have been forced to release a statement after the Video Assistant Referee ruled out a goal in Chelsea's clash against Tottenham Hotspur. Moises Caicedo thought he had doubled the Blues' lead at Stamford Bridge.
But, following a lengthy review by Jarred Gillett and his assistant, Craig Taylor, at Stockley Park, the 23-year-old midfielder's brilliant strike was ruled out. In the build-up to the goal, Levi Colwill was adjudged to have been in an offside position when Cole Palmer first delivered a cross into the box.
After a couple of minutes, VAR decided to rule out the goal. An official statement from the Premier League reads: "VAR checked the referee’s call of goal – and established that Colwill was in an offside position in the build-up and recommended that the goal was disallowed."
Enzo Maresca will certainly feel aggrieved by the decision as the race for top four builds a head of steam. Speaking to reporters ahead of Chelsea's clash against Tottenham, he was quizzed on the importance of securing Champions League qualification.
"If you are able to finish top four, top five, first of all it's fantastic for the fans," said the Blues boss. "For the club because we bring this club where this club has been always there.
"But, for the players, it's also important because they can realise the work that they have done and they can build from them something for the future."
This is a developing news story that will be updated with relevant information as we get it. More to follow...
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Chelsea flag prior the UEFA Champions League Quarter Final Leg One match between Chelsea FC and Real Madrid at Stamford Bridge. (Photo by Jose Breton/Pics Action/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
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