UNAI EMERY has demanded an explanation from VAR after a “huge mistake” in Aston Villa’s Europa League semi-final.
Villa boss Emery went ballistic after watching replays of ‘s tackle on in ‘s 1-0 at the City Ground.
Unai Emery let rip at VAR after Aston Villa’s first-leg defeatCredit: Refer to source
Elliott Anderson went unpunished after this tackle on Ollie Watkins Credit: TNT Sports
Forest midfielder Anderson came over the top of the ball and his studs made contact with Watkins’ ankle.
But the decided not to recommend an on-field review and Anderson went unpunished.
Forest kicked on and took the lead through ‘s penalty, leaving Villa with work to do in next week’s return leg.
Emery was full of praise for Portuguese referee Joao Pinheiro after the final whistle.
But he absolutely let rip at VAR Tiago Martins, who took no action after inspecting Anderson’s challenge.
Emery told TNT Sports : “Fantastic, the referee, fantastic. But the VAR is so, so bad.
“It’s a clear red card – I don’t understand why the VAR is not calling the referee because it’s so clear. And it’s very, very important.
“It’s a huge, huge mistake. VAR is responsible. I watched it back – wow. Huge. He could break his ankle.
Chris Wood’s penalty gave Forest a 1-0 lead to take into the second leg Credit: Getty
“VAR – where are you? Please. It is your responsibility, we are professionals.
“You are doing very bad work because it was so clear for everybody. I respect the referees always but VAR, I don’t understand. It’s not fair.”
Emery wants more information on why his team were denied a decision that could have changed the course of the tie.
He added in his post-match news conference: “The VAR has a huge responsibility and he must give us an explanation. It is crazy!”
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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