Premier League issue statement as VAR controversy SAVES Man Utd at Everton

Manchester United's Premier League clash with Everton was hit with controversy late on as Andy Madley was sent for a VAR review after awarding a late penalty to the home side

The Premier League have explained why Manchester United did NOT concede a late penalty against Everton.

Referee Andy Madley gave the hosts a spot-kick late on after Ashley Young was felled by a combination of Harry Maguire and Matthijs de Ligt. But the VAR sent Madley to the monitor and he overturned his decision upon review.

And the Premier League have now clarified that decision. A statement read: "VAR checked the referee’s call of penalty to Everton for a challenge by Maguire on Young and deemed that no foul had been committed and recommended an on-field review. The referee overturned the original decision and play restarted with a drop ball."

Young was pictured deep in conversation with the referee after the final whistle, while the officials were met with boos from large swaths of the home crowd.

But Bruno Fernandes gave his verdict and was sure that the incident was not a penalty. Speaking on TNT Sport, he said: "No, no. The referee said the angle was very close from the body so it's nothing to do with that."

Former United star Rio Ferdinand was shocked at the decision being overturned. He said: "I was feeling the worst when VAR got involved. I was surprised it wasn't given. The contact is there. When you put your hands on someone you give the referee a decision."

It was not the only VAR controversy at Goodison. Beto's opener was reviewed in the midst of a four-minute rdelay, with it being explained why the strike was eventually given.

A statement on Saturday read: "The referee’s call of goal was checked and confirmed by VAR – as there was no offside offence committed by either Lindstrøm or Beto."

Should Everton's penalty have stood? Share your thoughts in the comments below

The game eventually finished 2-2 after a dramatic clash. Beto and Abdoulaye Doucoure had put Everton into a comfortable position before Fernandes pulled a goal back with a brilliant free-kick.

Manuel Ugarte then equalised for the Red Devils, ensuring a share of the points. United are next back in action in midweek against struggling Ipswich following their dramatic escape. Meanwhile, Everton take on Brentford on Wednesday evening.

Ahead of that game, Ruben Amorim's side sit a lowly 15th in the Premier League table and 13 points clear of the relegation zone. Everton are one point but three places ahead in 12th.

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