Referees chief Howard Webb has revealed that he made two phone calls to Manchester United in the aftermath of the Manchester Derby defeat. United fell to a 1-0 loss against rivals Man City, thanks to Erling Haaland’s second half goal.
The goal was originally ruled out on the field, with VAR controversially overturning the decision despite Enzo Fernandez, who was offside, appearing to interfere with play. It’s a decision that Webb has described as a ‘significant error’.
It was revealed after the game that Pro Ref had been in touch with United to admit an ‘error of judgement’. Webb has now said that he personally made two phone calls to officials at the club.
Webb’s Calls to United Officials
Speaking to The Times, he said: “I called [director of football] Jason Wilcox and Rebecca [Britain, the club secretary], acknowledging the error.
“People talk about apologies. We don’t often apologise but I did that one because the error was so impactful — and it wasn’t a judgment call.”
The former referee then referenced a psychological experiment which involves participants being unable to see something obvious when their focus is on something else. It’s a phenomenon known as inattentional blindness.
Explaining the 'Gorilla' Phenomenon
“People can’t believe it when they see it. It’s like the gorilla,” he said. “The gorilla banging his chest when the kids are playing basketball, hiding in plain sight.
“Someone had to say, ‘Look at the gorilla banging his chest!’ Which gorilla? Oh, that one.”
Following the decision Pro Ref’s external consultant Inaki Vicandi Garrido reportedly reviewed the decision and interviewed all the officials involved. Michael Oliver was the referee with Matt Donohue on VAR and Blake Antrobus as assistant VAR.
Review Process and Other Decisions
It was reportedly followed by a video call with all Pro Ref match officials, before the next round of Premier League matches, as well as an in-person meeting in which they reviewed the incident.
The goal wasn’t the only controversial decision from the game, with City having Phil Foden sent off in the first half after kicking out at United captain Bruno Fernandes. The incident led to some calls that Fernandes should have also received a red card for appearing to swipe at the City forward before Foden reacted.
