Leeds United midfielder Anton Stach was on the receiving end of a heavy Max Kilman challenge.
Joe Cole has questioned the role of VAR in not recommending a review of big Leeds United claims for a first-half penalty at West Ham.
Kilman lunged across in desperation and made strong contact with Stach’s ankle after the Leeds man got his shot off. Alphonse Areola produced a strong save to deny the German, who in the process picked up a painful-looking ankle injury.
Stach was eventually forced off with that injury and Leeds did not get their penalty, with VAR assistant Constantine Hatzidakis opting against recommending an on-field review. And former West Ham midfielder Cole has questioned why there was no review.
“I understand why the referee didn't give it,” Cole told TNT Sports at half-time. “Max Kilman commits himself.
“When the VAR looks at that, how can you not give it? VAR is supposed to ref by the rules of the game and I think the referee got it wrong but I'm happy he got it wrong.”
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Officials will likely argue Stach’s ability to get a shot off made the challenge okay, with similar tackles often unpunished when an effort is struck. And that’s the reason former striker Clinton Morrison suggested could have played a role.
“I understand it but because Anton Stach gets his shot away, I think that's why they don't give it,” Morrison told BBC Radio 5 Live. “I'd understand if they gave it because Max Kilman's well late on Stach.
“It's a hard one because he goes to block it. If VAR sent him over, then you'd think he'd give it. But because the referee didn't give it then VAR didn't give it.”
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