Gary O'Neil hints at subconscious bias towards bigger clubs after Man City goal controversy
Wolves boss Gary O'Neil sensationally suggested referees “unconsciously” reward bigger clubs when it comes to closing VAR calls.
O'Neil's team were on the wrong side of multiple VAR decisions last season to the point where they called for a vote to scrap the technology. but were beaten 19-1 by their Premier League counterparts.
wolves I caught the short end of the stick once more in a heartbreaking 2-1 defeat to city of manchester.
The club was on course for a vital point against the defending champions, but Juan Piedras He appeared with a header in the 95th minute to secure the three points.
Stones' header was initially disallowed due to Bernard Silva interfering with Wolves goalkeeper José Sa from an offside position.
However, VAR deemed Silva was not in Sa's line of sight and had no impact on Stones' header as the decision was overturned, much to City's delight.
Speaking after the game, o'neil He avoided being too critical of VAR, but questioned whether referees are more inclined to give such marginal decisions in favor of bigger teams when the stakes are higher.
O'Neil also made reference to when Wolves were denied a goal in similar circumstances last season against West Ham to further underline his point.
“There's no chance that people are deliberately against the Wolves,” O'Neil said.
“But is there something subconscious around the decision-making or, without even knowing it, are you more likely to give it to Manchester City than Wolves?
“My concentration and my senses intensify when we face Manchester City, Pep (Guardiola) and (Erling) Haaland. Are the referees the same, when it's Haaland and when it's Manchester City?
“Is there something there that influences decision-making? And I've also talked to them about this, and they obviously guarantee me that there isn't. They're human.”
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“But Manchester City scoring a last-minute winner is a big deal. It's a bigger deal than Wolves scoring a last-minute goal against West Ham. So maybe there's something subconscious that means it's less you'll probably get them.
“I may be miles away, but if I were to bother someone on a street and there was a little guy and a big guy, I'm bothering a little guy. Nothing against little guys.
“But there's something there and they're definitely not doing it on purpose. I know they're 100 percent honest and doing the best job they can, and I fully respect them.
“But maybe there's something that just drives it in that direction when it's too tight.”
The 2-1 defeat ensured Wolves' winless start to the campaign extended into game eight as they remained entrenched at the foot of the table.
O'Neil's side have only picked up one point from a possible 24 thanks to a 1-1 draw against Nottingham Forest in August.
Although Wolves showed plenty of fight against City, O'Neil will be under no illusions that he needs to achieve results quickly.
Fortunately for Wolves, three teams are yet to win a game this season: Ipswich Town, Crystal Palace and Southampton.
Wolves face another tough test when they travel to fifth-placed Brighton next Saturday.
