The Premier League table without VAR: Newcastle United, Liverpool & Arsenal impacted

Newcastle United were left to bemoan the video assistant referee once again during Sunday’s home defeat against Arsenal.

With just seven minutes on the clock at St James Park, the Magpies were awarded a penalty when a Bruno Guimaraes shot seemed to be blocked by the arm of Gunners defender Jakub Kiwor. Referee Chris Kavanagh wasted little time in pointing to the spot before being summoned to the pitchside monitor by VAR official Andy Madley.

After a lengthy delay in making a decision, Kavanagh opted to overturn his call as the footage showed the ball struck the Pole’s thigh before deflecting onto his arm. In the pre-VAR days, Kavanagh’s initial decision would have stood and the Magpies would have been given a chance to land the first blow against the title contenders.

But how big an impact has VAR had on United’s Premier League points tally and position in the table this season?

Get the latest Newcastle United headlines with our free football newsletter! Follow the action from St James’ Park and beyond as we bring the sport news to you. Visit our website here to sign up.