Jamie Redknapp fumes over Arsenal penalty decision - 'An absolute disgrace'

View Image

Jamie Redknapp lambasted VAR's decision not to award Arsenal a penalty against Everton on Saturday evening, as Kai Havertz was brought to ground by Michael Keane. The Gunners star got the better of the Toffees defender in the first-half, chasing an incisive pass from Eberechi Eze.

While it appeared as though Havertz's ankle was stepped on by Keane in the Everton box, referee Andy Madley saw no wrongdoing in the process, encouraging both sides to play on. VAR also stepped in to scrutinise the footage, but also quickly waved away any appeals for a spot kick.

However, former Liverpool star Redknapp was less than impressed by the on-field decision, as well as the backing from those upstairs. Speaking on Sky Sports , he said: "Watch as he goes past him, watch his left foot.

"It's so clear. How on earth have VAR took three seconds to say there's no penalty?

"It's a horrendous decision. It's a penalty, it should be overturned.

"You're stepping across to use your body, when he's in front you've got to get out of his way. You sound like VAR now (is he already going down?)

"The fact it took such a short amount of time, we see VAR decisions and everyone at home see it's not a penalty or a bad decision taking five or 10 minutes. That, they've taken three seconds, it's an absolute disgrace."

Daniel Sturridge, who joined Redknapp in analysing the first-hall from the Sky Sports studio, added: "There's enough, you can clearly see he's kicked him. He's tried to guide him, for me, he's kicked him."

The Premier League Match Centre also took to X to explain the decision, citing how there was "minimal" contact between the two players. A post read: "The referee’s call of no penalty to Arsenal was checked and confirmed by VAR – with the contact from Keane on Havertz deemed to be minimal."

There will be more to follow on this breaking news story and Mirror Sport will bring you the very latest updates, pictures and video as soon as possible.

Please check back regularly for updates on this developing story.

Follow us on Google News , Flipboard , Apple News , Twitter , Facebook or visit The Mirror homepage.

Sky has slashed the price of its Essential TV and Sky Sports bundle for the 2025/26 season, saving £336 and offering more than 1,400 live matches across the Premier League, EFL and more.