Newcastle United have already had some close shaves with VAR just seven games into the Premier League season. The technology - introduced to the mainstream at the 2018 World Cup - has not conjured up as much controversy as previous seasons.
Hold your breath, some may say, with the campaign still in its infancy. But new “referee’s call” guidelines - similar to how cricket operates - have given VAR a backseat role.
In truth, Newcastle have benefitted from the software so far in 2024-25. Eddie Howe’s men were lucky to avoid a last-gasp defeat against Bournemouth in August.
Abdoulaye Doucoure also rightfully had a goal chalked off for offside before the international break. A week earlier, VAR decided against intervening when Anthony Gordon hit the deck after being caught by Ederson.
Manchester City players felt as though contact was minimal and not enough to force a penalty. Overall, the Magpies - touch wood - are yet to be on the receiving end of a VAR howler this season.
But how does that stack up to the rest of the division? NewcastleWorld has profiled how the Premier League table would look without the controversial technology.
5. 16th: Everton - 7 points (+ 2 points)
Abdoulaye Doucouré's goal against Newcastle United was ruled out for offside just before the international break in a game that ended 0-0. | Getty Images
6. 15th: Leicester City - 8 points (+2 points)
Have had one goal given by VAR but it came in a game they lost 2-1 to Fulham. Did see a call go against them when Crystal Palace saw a goal given after an incorrect offside as the Foxes shared the spoils in 2-2 draw. Also saw Arsenal awarded a late goal but it made the scoreline 4-2 rather than 3-2. | Getty Images
7. 14th: West Ham - 8 points
No VAR overturns for the Hammers so far. | AFP via Getty Images
8. 13th: Manchester United - 9 points (+1 point)
The Red Devils would have likely picked up at least an extra point with a draw against Brighton should a Joshua Zirkzee goal have stood. Instead, it was ruled out for offside. | Getty Images