Brentford head coach criticizes VAR following Manchester derby ruling
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 16, 2026, 6:57 AM
Last updated Sep 16, 2026

Brentford head coach Keith Andrews has expressed concern over referees relying too heavily on VAR, following a contentious decision in the Manchester derby where Manchester City’s Erling Haaland's goal was allowed despite an offside call. The refereeing body admitted to an 'error of judgement', prompting Andrews to advocate for greater referee autonomy in making calls. This comes after another controversial decision in Brentford’s recent win over Reading in the Carabao Cup, which saw a Reading goal ruled out. Andrews called for referees to act as 'human beings' and not feel constrained by technology. There is currently no VAR in the Carabao Cup.
- •Andrews calls for referees to have more autonomy in officiating.
- •Manchester City’s Haaland goal faced controversy for offside involvement.
- •Reading had a goal disallowed in Brentford's Carabao Cup match.
- •VAR decision-making continues to be criticized across the league.
- •No VAR is present in the current Carabao Cup stage.
- 6:57 AMYahoo Sports — Brentford boss calls for referees to ‘be human and make decisions’ after latest VAR controversy
"The head coach said the fact that Erling Haaland’s winner in the Manchester derby was allowed was ‘pretty alarming’
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