Premier League releases VAR audio on Fulham handball call against Manchester United

Manchester United’s 1-1 draw at Fulham ended with a late VAR decision under close scrutiny after a potential Bassey handball was rejected, with the Premier League subsequently publishing the officials’ audio and confirming that no penalty should be awarded.

VAR review upholds Bankes decision

The key incident came in the 86th minute. Lisandro Martinez directed the ball towards Fulham defender Calvin Bassey, and television replays showed the ball making contact with Bassey’s hand. United players appealed, but referee Peter Bankes allowed the match to continue immediately.

A VAR check was completed and supported Bankes’ original call. The Premier League’s Match Centre statement said the possible handball had been reviewed and that the decision against giving Manchester United a penalty had been confirmed.

• Assistant referee Dan Cook told Bankes that Bassey’s arm was tucked close to his body, despite the ball making contact.
• Bankes maintained his on-field judgement that play should continue.
• VAR official Nick Hopton reviewed the footage and concluded that Bassey’s arms were close to his body, meaning there was no clear error requiring an intervention.

Late Cunha goal rescues a point

United had already endured a difficult afternoon at Craven Cottage before the disputed appeal. Martinez put Fulham ahead with an own goal that got beyond goalkeeper Senne Lammens.

Matheus Cunha eventually brought the visitors level in the 89th minute, his effort taking a deflection on its way in. The equaliser prevented a third straight defeat during a demanding week, but it did not remove the concerns around the side’s start to the season.

Carrick rejects passive display claim

Manager Michael Carrick defended the commitment of his players after the final whistle, arguing that United had not been as passive as critics had suggested. He pointed to their first-half control and periods of constructive possession, while accepting that matches can swing away from a team at times.

• United are 12th in the Premier League after five fixtures.
• They have collected five points from those opening matches.
• The return matches their weakest beginning to a Premier League season, previously recorded in 2014-15.

Tottenham await after international break

United now have the international break to regroup before returning to league action on October 10. Tottenham will visit Old Trafford in the first match after the pause, with Carrick’s side seeking a stronger response following their uneven opening run.