Kai Havertz penalty call: Jamie Redknapp brands VAR inaction a disgrace as Arsenal denied spot-kick against Everton

Jamie Redknapp has blasted VAR’s inaction after Kai Havertz was denied a penalty in the first half of Arsenal’s 2-0 win over Everton, labelling the decision “a disgrace”.

A clumsy challenge from Michael Keane on Havertz in the 23rd minute was ignored by on-field referee Andy Madley – and very quickly cleared by VAR official Stuart Attwell.

Keane and Havertz were grappling as the Arsenal forward entered the Everton area, slid through by Eberechi Eze, before the defender clearly trod on the back of his opponent’s foot.

Sky Sports’ Alan Smith, on co-commentary at the Emirates Stadium, said he was “amazed they’ve [the officials] taken so little time” to examine the incident and clear it of any wrongdoing.

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Kai Havertz was controversially denied a penalty in Arsenal’s Premier League clash with Everton

Speaking at half time, Redknapp said: “It’s so clear. How on earth have VAR taken three seconds to say that’s not a penalty? That’s a horrendous decision.

“It’s definitely a penalty and it should be overturned.

“We see VAR make decisions sometimes that everyone at home can see is not a penalty and it takes five minutes.

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“They’ve taken three seconds to say it’s not a penalty. That is an absolute disgrace.”

In the aftermath of the collision, Mikel Arteta and several Arsenal coaches were seen pleading their case with the fourth official.

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The Premier League’s match centre deemed contact from Keane to be “minimal”, but the Everton man was the wrong side of play and scraped down Havertz’s left foot.

Arsenal scored two late goals to emerge 2-0 winners from the game and move – temporarily at least – 10 points clear of nearest rivals Manchester City in the title race.