'I cannot understand' - former Newcastle duo slam VAR penalty call against Manchester United

Jonathan Woodgate and Shay Given have both questioned a decision which went against Newcastle United during their clash with Manchester United at Old Trafford.

Raphael Varane was welcomed back into United's starting XI against the Magpies, as Erik ten Hag was able to recall the Frenchman after a brief spell away from action owing to injury. The 29-year-old had formed a fine partnership alongside Lisandro Martinez in central defence, as the pair reunited once again for the Premier League clash.

It was nearly a nightmare start for Varane, as he appeared to catch Callum Wilson in United's penalty box with just 15 minutes played. Referee Craig Pawson waved away the appeals for a spot-kick, as VAR upheld the decision.

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Woodgate initially seemed to agree with Pawson's decision, as he told BBC Radio 5 Live: “I’d be surprised if that was a penalty. It was a brilliant recovery from Martinez because he [Wilson] just seemed to get away from Varane. It’s the recovery again from Martinez. He’s started strong and aggressive.”

However, after being shown a replay of the incident, the former Newcastle man appeared to change his mind, saying: “If you were the referee and you had another look?”

Woodgate's former teammate Given was far clearer in his views, saying: “I cannot understand how that isn’t a penalty for Newcastle - Varane cuts right across him”.

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