Premier League release statement on VAR controversy as West Ham beat Man United

West Ham United's 2-1 triumph over Manchester United was marred by debate after the Hammers were awarded a contentious penalty. The action unfolded with West Ham ahead after Crysencio Summerville's opener, only for Casemiro to level the score shortly after.

However, Jarrod Bowen put the hosts back in the lead from the spot, following a VAR-induced review of Matthijs de Ligt's tackle on Danny Ings. The explanation behind the decision was later provided by the Premier League.

The league's official match centre account posted on X, formerly Twitter: "The VAR deemed there was sufficient contact on Ings' lower leg and recommended an on-field review. The referee overturned his original decision and awarded a penalty."

Sunday's outcome in London leaves Erik ten Hag's squad in a disappointing 14th place after nine matches, having clinched just four wins across all competitions this season. Moreover, their European campaign remains winless after drawing three times in a row.

Following last season's eighth-place finish – their worst since 1990 – the defeat to the Hammers heaps more pressure on Ten Hag, reports the Manchester Evening News. When BBC Sport quizzed the Dutch manager post-match about any discussions with officials concerning the penalty decision, his response was terse: "I spoke with them. But the decision is made.

"There's no way back and that's football. That's a third time I have felt injustice in the season and it has a big impact on our team and on our scores and where we are in the table. It's not right."