VAR disallows Josh King's Fulham goal in Chelsea derby

Eighteen-year-old Fulham midfielder Josh King had what would have been his first Premier League goal ruled out in the 22nd minute of Saturday's London derby at Stamford Bridge after a video assistant referee review, prompting renewed criticism of VAR from fans, pundits and Fulham's manager. Referee Robert Jones overturned his on-field decision following a VAR check and ruled that Fulham forward Rodrigo Muniz had committed a "careless challenge" by stamping on Chelsea defender Trevoh Chalobah, restarting play with a Chelsea free kick.

The move began with Fulham winning possession near their own box and, after a quick passing sequence, King raced behind the Chelsea defence and finished low past goalkeeper Robert Sanchez. Jones was summoned to the pitchside monitor by the VAR and, on his return to the stadium announcement, said, "After review, the Fulham number nine commits a careless challenge, stands on the foot of the Chelsea defender, therefore we disallow the goal and we restart with a Chelsea free kick." The Premier League later confirmed the decision by issuing a brief VAR overturn message.

Reactions were immediate and polarised. Supporters on social media described the...