Chris Wilder has spoken about the terrible VAR record his Sheffield United team have so far this season.
Despite being sixth in the table at the halfway point of the league campaign, the Blades have not been helped by the controversial system.
No other team in the top flight of English football has had more decisions go against them than Wilder’s side.
ESPN have compiled the statistics and United have had four goals ruled out by VAR. They also had a penalty awarded against them during the win over Aston Villa – which Jack Grealish missed. Finally, Jonjo Shelvey’s goal in the victory for Newcastle United at Bramall Lane – which was originally flagged as offside – was given by the video assistant referee.
The only decision that has gone the Blades’ way was Chris Basham’s red card being rescinded at Norwich City. In a first for the Premier League, Basham’s red was reduced to a yellow by VAR.
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What the Sheffield United boss thinks of the VAR record
(Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images)
Overall United have a -5 total in 2019/20 when it comes to VAR. This is by far the worst in the division, with Norwich and West Ham United next with -3.
At the other end of the table are Brighton and Hove Albion with +5. The Blades had two goals ruled out while playing them recently, for instance. They did still go on to win the match 1-0, though.
Wilder has been asked about the subject on several occasions and in general has remained relatively diplomatic. Here’s what he had to say about these latest stats.
“I think we’re bottom of that division of decisions that have gone against us,” Wilder told Robbie Savage on BBC 5 Live Sport. “But I know it’s here to stay.
“I just don’t know the percentages that we’re looking at to improve the game.
“I don’t know what effect it has had on the overall game for the supporters. The ones who but tickets, buy shirts, are the most important people in football so we must not forget them.”
