Villa coach says the technology makes sense “if it’s fair” and demands explanation for controversial decision
Unai Emery has strongly criticised “crazy” VAR after Aston Villa’s 1-0 defeat to Nottingham Forest in the first leg of their Europa League semi-final.
Forest midfielder Elliot Anderson challenged Villa striker Ollie Watkins late in the first half at the City Ground, appearing to catch the striker’s ankle with his studs, but no red card was shown and VAR did not intervene.
Watkins was able to continue without treatment, but Emery was disgusted and wanted an explanation.
“I was feeling so comfortable with how he [the referee] managed the 90 minutes, but after watching the VAR action with Ollie Watkins, it’s a huge mistake,” Emery said.
“Because Ollie Watkins was close to breaking his ankle and the VAR, it’s his responsibility and I don’t understand why [they didn’t intervene]. He must give us one explanation about it because it’s crazy.
“The most important is the players, one action like that can break his ankle and it’s so, so clear in the VAR.
“The VAR makes sense if it’s fair. I watched it, I [did] not understand anything, in football I have been a coach for 20 years and sometimes they make mistakes but always it’s a tight decision.”
