Michael Carrick unmoved by Pro Ref apology after VAR error in Manchester derby | OneFootball

Michael Carrick says he still backs VAR but was unimpressed by Pro Ref's apology after Manchester United's 1-0 derby loss to Manchester City.

Manchester City won 1-0 at Old Trafford. Haaland scored the only goal, with Fernandez offside and interfering with play, but the VAR team did not intervene. Goal.com notes that Carrick felt the apology meant little despite supporting VAR.

Pro Ref apologised to United within three hours of the final whistle. VAR Matt Donohue and assistant Blake Antrobus were stood down for the following weekend's fixtures.

Refereeing chief Howard Webb contacted United and expressed deep disappointment on Match Officials Mic'd Up. He said the officials fixated on Haaland's potential offside and missed Fernandez's interference.

Carrick appreciated the admission, said mistakes happen and United must deal with it. He suggested decisions might balance out over time, but felt this one had a major impact on the game.

Even so, he maintained faith in VAR, calling it the system they use.

The defeat capped a grim spell, including a home collapse against Brighton after leading by two, the first such collapse in half a century. It followed a 2-2 draw with Everton where United were pegged back twice.

Carrick defended his players, saying recent setbacks do not suddenly amount to a huge problem, and that the team must learn and adjust.

United visit Fulham in the Premier League on Sunday. He said the error cannot define the season and they need to return to winning ways quickly.

Source: Goal.com

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