Gary Lineker leads VAR criticism after Roberto Firmino's goal gets disallowed

Video assistant referee finds Liverpool forward offside but many are not convinced

Roberto Firmino's goal for Liverpool against Aston Villa was disallowed on Saturday. Getty Images

The controversial VAR system was in the spotlight once again on Saturday after Roberto Firmino's strike for Liverpool against Aston Villa was disallowed after being ruled offside.

In the 28th minute of the match, Liverpool thought they had equalised – after Trezeguet had scored for Villa – when Firmino tapped in a fine cross from Sadio Mane. But the goal was disallowed after VAR found Firmino to be offside by the smallest of margins.

Gary Lineker made his displeasure clear, tweeting immediately after the decision: "Firmino has had a goal disallowed for offside. He wasn’t offside but VAR decided he was offside. When it comes to VAR I’m now offside."

Firmino has had a goal disallowed for offside. He wasn’t offside but VAR decided he was offside. When it comes to VAR I’m now offside.

— Gary Lineker (@GaryLineker) November 2, 2019

Others joined Lineker in their criticism of VAR.

Firmino’s nasal hair was offside there. A clear advantage for Liverpool.

— Simon Hughes (@Simon_Hughes__) November 2, 2019

In the press box we're shown multiple replays in which Roberto Firmino is onside. Goal not given. Erm.....

— Daniel Storey (@danielstorey85) November 2, 2019

But some were not completely dismissive of the VAR decision. What do you think?

Roberto Firmino was just offside. Very close, but red is in front of the blue. VAR correct not to overrule linesman.

This is where Hawk-Eye imaging software is crucial, as it provides perspective for the point of attacker's head or shoulder with a defender's foot. #AVLLIV pic.twitter.com/Fe6BLvdBvA

— Dale Johnson (@DaleJohnsonESPN) November 2, 2019