Alan Shearer says VAR has damaged refereeing standards after Newcastle’s cup win

Aston Villa were dumped out after a controversial cup encounter. 

Alan Shearer has criticised the impact of VAR on refereeing. Pic: Adam Davy/PA

Alan Shearer lambasted the decision-making in Newcastle’s FA Cup win over Aston Villa, suggesting a reliance on VAR is diluting refereeing standards.

With video technology not used until the fifth round, the officials had to rely on their own judgement in the all-Premier League tie, which ended with the Magpies winning 3-1.