Controversial VAR decisions causing friend and family rows, study finds

CONTROVERSIAL VAR decisions are causing friend and family rows, a survey has revealed.

One in eight footie fans said they have led to ­friction and fallings-out.

In contrast, only one in 12 said decisions by Premier League on-pitch referees led to serious anger.

The survey found Arsenal fans argue with loved ones the most, with 20 per cent of the Gunners’ supporters bickering about Video Assistant Referee decisions.

Chelsea, Southampton, Manchester United and Tottenham followed on the list.

Aston Villa fans had the least rows, with only six per cent having a bust-up after the game.

Betting site freebets.com asked 2,000 Premier League fans and found arguments are most often caused by disallowed goals for off side and penalty decisions.

Spokesman Tim Agnew said: “The positive news is it’s making referees more popular, or at least the ref is no longer getting the brunt of fans’ fury.”

It comes after the International FA Board last week said it was considering extending existing checks for goals, penalties and red cards to corners, free kicks and yellow cards.