Chelsea vs Man United penalty decision divides Tuchel, Solskjaer

There were no goals at Stamford Bridge on Sunday, but one key decision split opinion for Chelsea and Manchester United.

The main talking point of the 0-0 Premier League draw came in the first half, when United were denied what they felt to be a penalty for a potential handball by Callum Hudson-Odoi.

Following a Video Assistant Referee (VAR) check, match official Stuart Attwell decided that Hudson-Odoi had not deliberately handled the ball when clashing with Mason Greenwood in the Chelsea penalty area.

United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer insisted United should have been awarded a spot-kick, and railed against what he perceives as attempts from rival bosses to influence officials.

🗣 "We came away and it’s another good clean sheet but the next step for this team is to win these games."

Read the thoughts of the #MUFC boss 👇

— Manchester United (@ManUtd) February 28, 2021

Asked if he had been given an explanation as to why United’s penalty claim was rejected, Solskjaer said: “No. They probably thought his hand was in a very natural position when he flicked that ball.

“It’s gone now. Obviously they thought his hand was in a natural position when he flicked the ball.

“I’m a bit concerned we don’t get those penalties after what noises were made a month or two about us getting penalties. There is a point of managers influencing the referees.”

Confirming he was referring to former Chelsea boss Frank Lampard in terms of historic attempts from other managers to influence referees, Solskjaer continued: “That’s just the nature of us as managers isn’t it?

“If anything goes against you, you probably want to highlight it. I trust the referees not to be influenced by it.

“But I was very surprised by this decision. Live, I didn’t think it was a penalty, so I understand why he didn’t give it straight away.

“But looking back, it’s not a very natural position to have your hand in.”

Thomas Tuchel's take on a tight encounter at the Bridge. 💬 #CHEMUN

— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) February 28, 2021

Read Also:Chelsea and Man United battle to goalless draw at Stamford Bridge

However, Chelsea boss Tuchel remained nonplussed on United’s frustrations about the penalty not being awarded.

“I was surprised, I’m still surprised, because I didn’t see it live where the penalty should come from,” said Tuchel.

“When we checked the pictures I could not see any incident that would qualify for a penalty. But maybe I have to look at it again.

“Until now I don’t know why it should have to be a penalty.”