Tottenham Hotspur ultimately ran out as 2-1 winners over Liverpool but the game was marred by VAR controversy

Following Tottenham Hotspur’s victory against Liverpool, Mikel Arteta acknowledged that “the pressure is increasing” on VAR’s future. At the weekend, Spurs snatched a 96th-minute victory to break Liverpool hearts, but the most of the post-game fallout has focused on the officials.

Luis Diaz was ruled to have been offside in the first half, preventing the Reds from taking a 1-0 lead. Replays revealed that the Columbian was unmistakably onside, requiring the refereeing organisation PGMOL to issue an apology following the game. The Reds will also appeal Curtis Jones’ first-half dismissal for a tackle on Yves Bissouma because they finished the game with nine men.

In a blistering statement made on Sunday, Liverpool said the officials were “undermining sporting integrity” and promised to “explore” all of their options. Many claimed that this was an attempt to challenge the outcome or a potential legal threat.

Frank Lampard, a former player for Chelsea, stated on Monday Night Football that VAR was approaching its breaking point and even said that Saturday’s game was a “crisis” point for officials. The 45-year-old held back from recommending that former players be employed as officials at Stockley Park.

“I don’t think football people are the solution unless they are trained and educated to do the job because it is a lot to ask,” Lampard stated. “While we might all have opinions, we need to understand the specifics. It was always brought up throughout the several Premier League manager meetings I attended.

“My main concern was that, if we were to implement VAR, referees should be specially taught in that area. I know it would be difficult. You must assert that this is your responsibility and that you must be aware of every aspect of it. It’s time to proceed because the situation is now critical.

Before Arsenal’s Champions League trip to RC Lens, Arteta was questioned about his thoughts on the VAR saga. He acknowledged that animosity towards the technology is growing. “You know you want to get what you deserve in the end,” he continued. You want to keep mistakes that are beyond your control as far away from your daily work as possible.

Everyone tries to play honestly and fairly, but in the end, you have to earn the right to win and play within the boundaries of the regulations. It is very upsetting when that doesn’t occur.

“Before the season began, we had some significant discussions (regarding VAR), and everyone had the best of intentions to advance the game and identify the best course of action. But it’s clear that the pressure is mounting as a result of everything that has already occurred this season, not just in the Premier League but also in other nations.

“It’s difficult for them. Any team or management finds it challenging because doing so puts them in danger of having their season or results negatively impacted.