Football lawmakers set to review grappling at corners after West Ham-Arsenal VAR controversy

“There will be geographical changes – football is played all over the world – different countries, different players will deal with things in slightly different ways. It’s within the protocol for match officials to take decisions on that (whether a foul has been committed) if they feel it is appropriate at the time, so they have got that opportunity."

In contrast to West Ham’s grievances, Arsenal head coach Mikel Arteta praised the officials, referee Chris Kavanagh and VAR Darren England, for their handling of the incident.

"It was a call from the ref that is very brave, but very consistent with what they’ve been talking about all season," Arteta said.

"When I have to be critical, I have been. And today I have to praise them, at least for giving the option to a referee to decide, away from the lights and the chaos, to give clarity to him to make the right call. And when you look at the action in that way, it is an obvious error."

Mikel Arteta praised the bravery of the officials (Getty)

However, Nuno and Bowen strongly disagreed with this assessment.

The Portuguese coach expressed his frustration, stating: "You look at every corner in the Premier League and something like this is happening, not just today, but on all the pitches. I am talking about the lack of consistency. The players are confused and frustrated and they don’t understand it. It is upsetting. It is up to them to solve it, there is a referee and VAR, but the referees confuse themselves."

Bowen echoed his manager’s sentiments, adding: "There’s lots of holding and grappling that goes on in the box. Are you going to look at those every time and give a penalty? Because that’s the only way that is the right way to do it."

The upcoming Ifab discussions will be crucial in determining how football addresses this persistent and divisive issue.