In a crucial Premier League clash that had major implications at both ends of the table, former England and Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney has praised the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) for making the right call in disallowing West Ham's late equalizer against Arsenal.

The drama unfolded in stoppage time when West Ham's Callum Wilson thought he had snatched a vital point for the Hammers, potentially dealing a significant blow to Arsenal's title charge while boosting their own survival hopes. However, after a VAR review, the goal was correctly ruled out due to a foul by West Ham's Pablo on Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya.

The Gunners held on for a 1-0 victory, moving five points clear of Manchester City at the top of the table. For West Ham, the result leaves them in 18th place, just one point behind Tottenham Hotspur, making their Premier League future increasingly uncertain.

"It's a clear foul," Rooney stated on his show. "You're going to get a lot of people saying it should have stood because it's controversial. Probably all the Manchester City players, staff, and fans will say it should have stood, while Tottenham and Arsenal supporters will say it shouldn't. But when you watch it, you can clearly see the arm crosses his face and impacts his ability to get to the ball. It's the right decision."

Rooney added, "It's the one time I actually think VAR has done a really good job in such an important game."

While satisfied with the decision, Rooney couldn't help but express his long-standing frustration with the protection goalkeepers receive in their own area. "I think where VAR and referees are consistent—and I hate it—is you go anywhere near the goalkeeper and it's a foul. Throughout my career, I've had a dislike for goalkeepers because of that. They can jump with their arms, giving them a big advantage, and they often come out with their knees and studs down your back. But at least they're consistent—if you go near them, it's a foul."