‘Absolute shocker’ – James Maddison fumes over VAR controversy as Premier League explain why Spurs were disallowed goal

‘Absolute shocker’ – James Maddison fumes over VAR controversy as Premier League explain why Spurs were disallowed goal

James Maddison has taken to social media to slam VAR after Tottenham’s disallowed goal against West Ham.

Spurs thought they had taken the lead inside the opening 20 minutes at the London Stadium.

However, Cristian Romero’s header was instantly ruled out by referee Jarred Gillett.

The official blew his whistle after adjudging Micky van de Ven to have fouled Kyle Walker-Peters as the ball was crossed in.

His decision was met with a furious reaction from the Spurs players as VAR reviewed the decision.

After a brief delay, Gillett’s on-field decision to rule out the goal was confirmed.

Fortunately for Spurs, Pape Matar Sarr put them in front just moments into the second half from yet another corner.

Why was Spurs’ goal ruled out?

In a statement, the Premier League Match Centre explained: “The referee’s call of no goal was checked and confirmed by VAR – with it deemed that Van de Ven pushed Walker-Peters in the back and impacted his ability to play the ball.”

Maddison was unimpressed with the officials, though, as he fumed at there ‘absolute shocker’.

Reacting to the disallowed goal on X, the midfielder wrote: “Honestly the referees & VAR have had an absolute shocker of a start to the season.

“If that goal is disallowed for a foul you will never ever see a corner be taken without referee blowing for something ever again.”

Maddison is currently ruled out after tearing his cruciate ligament during pre-season.

The 28-year-old is expected to miss the entire season, having undergone surgery on the devastating injury.

Former Spurs star Jamie O’Hara agreed with his stance on the goal.

Reacting on the GameDay Phone-In, the talkSPORT co-host exclaimed: “We’re watching the replay and it’s not a foul, mate. It’s not a foul. It has to be a goal.

“I saw Walker-Peter go down, but the goalkeeper has pushed him! That is unbelievable. That is absolutely outrageous.

“If VAR have checked that and have not given it as a goal, that is one of the worst decisions I’ve ever seen. That is a shocking decision. That is a disgusting decision! They should be ashamed of themselves!

“He fell over! Walker-Peters is trying to grab Romero on the way down, Romero heads it in the goal, and the referee gives a foul!

“VAR, what is it? Honestly, it’a a joke!”

Jason Cundy added: “I am absolutely stunned. I am no Spurs fan, as you know. I’m glad it’s been disallowed, but there is no way that should be.”

A furious O’Hara then admitted: “I’m honestly getting to the point where I hate football. I just hate VAR, I hate it. It’s ruining the game. They’re clueless. The game’s gone!”

Spurs’ disallowed goal is the latest in a string of controversial VAR decisions already this season.

Fulham were denied a goal in their defeat to Chelsea at Craven Cottage last month.

Josh King’s strike was ruled out for a seemingly innocuous foul in the build-up to the goal.

Despite being disallowed, his effort was named the Cottagers’ goal of the month for August.