Jamie Carragher says VAR at a ‘crisis point’ after Liverpool offside controversy

VAR is now at a “crisis point”, according to pundit and former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher.

Liverpool had a Luis Diaz goal incorrectly ruled out for offside during Saturday’s Premier League defeat at Tottenham due to miscommunication between VAR Darren England and on-field referee Simon Hooper.

The match was goalless at the time of the incident, with the Reds – who were eventually reduced to nine men – going on to lose 2-1 to an own goal from Joel Matip deep into stoppage time.

"I do feel like this is a crisis point for VAR" @Carra23 gives his honest opinion on the controversial decision to disallow Luis Díaz's goal against Tottenham pic.twitter.com/TZoXdsS34z

— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) October 2, 2023

Liverpool issued a statement on Sunday night saying they would “explore the range of options available given the clear need for escalation and resolution”.

The PA news agency understands the Reds have now formally requested the audio of the conversation between the two from referees’ body Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL).

Former Liverpool and England defender Carragher was analysing the incident ahead of Monday night’s live Premier League game between Fulham and Chelsea at Craven Cottage.

The Sky Sports pundit believes the whole system is now under more pressure than ever.

Liverpool Football Club acknowledges PGMOL’s admission of their failures last night.

It is clear that the correct application of the laws of the game did not occur, resulting in sporting integrity being undermined.

— Liverpool FC (@LFC) October 1, 2023

“I don’t think the feeling around VAR has ever been lower – I do feel as if this is almost like a crisis point for VAR in this country,” Carragher said on Sky Sports.

“It is not