'Not too sure' - Anthony Gordon injury concern ahead of Newcastle United, Man Utd & Chelsea battle

Anthony Gordon has urged the Premier League to improve VAR or bin it after he was denied a ‘clear penalty’ in Newcastle United’s 3-2 defeat to Manchester United.

Eddie Howe’s men were trailing 1-0 to Kobbie Mainoo’s 31st minute opener when Gordon went down in the box. Referee Robert Jones waved away the appeals, and while replays showed Sofyan Amrabat clipped the back of Gordon’s left heel, VAR failed to intervene.

The challenge by Amrabat created a hole in Gordon’s sock and also left the 23-year-old with a “really sore” ankle ahead of Sunday’s final Premier League game of the season away to Brentford.

Asked about the incident, Gordon told Sky Sports: "Really sore. Not too sure how good my ankle will be.

"I have watched it back and it is a clear penalty. I don't mind the referee getting it wrong on the pitch, but I don't understand the point of VAR. He [Sofyan Amrabat] goes down my Achilles and pushes me in the back.

"I knew straight away, that is why I didn't appeal. I waited for the VAR to check, I told my teammates 'it was a clear penalty'. I don't understand the point of it, either get rid of it or get better - it's that simple. I think I am quite fond of it. Fond of the idea and it should work, but there are too many mistakes."

Gordon’s comments come after the Premier League announced in the build-up to kick-off that clubs will vote on scrapping VAR at the annual AGM on June 6.

“The Premier League can confirm it will facilitate a discussion on VAR with our clubs at the annual general meeting next month,” a statement read.

"Clubs are entitled to put forward proposals at shareholders' meetings and we acknowledge the concerns and issues around the use of VAR.

"However, the league fully supports the use of VAR and remains committed, alongside PGMOL [Professional Game Match Officials Limited], to make continued improvements to the system for the benefit of the game and fans.”

VAR has been in place in the Premier League since 2019, and Newcastle will be hoping to avoid any final day controversy.

In order to finish sixth, the Magpies must beat Brentford and hope Chelsea lose at home to AFC Bournemouth. To secure seventh, they must equal Man United’s result away to Brighton & Hove Albion.