Tottenham's Mauricio Pochettino warns 'embarrassing' use of VAR could 'kill the emotion' of football

Pochettino was left incensed by controversial decisions at Wembley
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Jack Rosser @JackRosser_28 February 2018

Mauricio Pochettino has criticised VAR technology in its current form and branded the first half of Tottenham's FA Cup replay victory over Rochdale "embarrassing for everyone" after a string of controversial decisions left Wembley at a loss.

The hosts, taken to a replay buy a late equaliser in the original tie, looked to be ahead early on when Erik Lamela tapped home on six minutes.

However, after a lengthy wait which had fans, players and those in the press box scratching their heads, the goal was ruled out for what was deemed a foul by Fernando Llorente.

A succession of delays and disruptions followed, with a free-kick being reviewed and adjudged a penalty: but the converted spot-kick was ruled out as Heung-min Son paused in his run-up, creating a surreal atmosphere here at the national stadium.

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Pochettino, who admitted he and his staff had reviewed the footage at half-time and could not make a call, has warned VAR could "kill" the emotion of football.

"I am so happy because the job is done and we're in the quarter-final," the Spurs boss told reporters.

"That was our objective, but the first half was a little bit embarrassing for everyone. I think it's difficult to keep focus on playing football. I am not sure that that system is going to help. I love the football as football was born. That is why we love the game that we know.

"I think football, we are talking about emotion, the context of emotion. If we are going to kill the emotion then the fans, the people who love football, I don't think are so happy about what they say today.

"And then I think we have the best referees in Europe and the world. I think we don't need too much. And then I think football is about making mistakes. Like us, we make a mistake, the players make a mistake and the referee can make a mistake."

In Pictures | FA Cup fifth round | 2017-18

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Pochettino admitted he was for the help of technology in football, but warned those at the top of the game must be cautious in its application, concerned that it could drive fans away from stadiums.

"I think you, the fans and myself, we are all agreed, watching today's game, I think maybe it's so early for next season because we need to respect the fans," he added. "I think the fans who watch football are not so happy about this.

"Maybe it's for you the decision and I think you are going to kill that emotion that makes you feel happy and that is why you paid for the ticket and came to the game today when the conditions are so bad."

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