Sheffield United: Jonjo Shelvey reveals his thinking behind VAR-assisted goal at Bramall Lane as he praises Blades
Jonjo Shelvey has revealed his thinking behind his VAR-assisted goal at Bramall Lane last night, after praising the Blades’ style of play.
Shelvey’s Newcastle were already leading courtesy of Allan Saint-Maximin's early header, before some intelligent play from the midfielder saw the visitors double their lead midway through the second half.
Paul Dummett's long ball forward was flicked on by Andy Carroll and Shelvey found himself clean through on goal after making a run from deep.
The Blades defenders totally stopped playing, believing the Newcastle midfielder to be offside, while goalkeeper Dean Henderson made no attempt to save the ball as Shelvey fired into the back of the net, knowing the goal would be checked.
It was a very tight decision but Carroll was inches onside and the goal stood to give the Magpies a vital victory on Thursday night.
And Shelvey said: "The ref said to me if the linesman puts his flag up, play on. That is the benefit of VAR now.
"Normally I am slating VAR but tonight has been good for us."
The defeat ended United's seven-game unbeaten run, ahead of their trip to Norwich on Sunday.
"It was always going to be a tough place to come,” Shelvey added.
"They are a great side and they knock the ball about.
"They are fit as anything and we had to dig deep and push for the win.
"It's been a good week for me, obviously goals get you the recognition. Listen, the main thing is we won."