Arsenal still would have become Premier League champions if the division did not employ VAR, according to research. The Gunners would have only edged Manchester City out on goal difference, however.

Mikel Arteta’s side finally got over the line to upgrade from perennial runners-up to deserved champions with a game to spare. And, while many might point to fortuitous VAR outcomes such as West Ham being denied a goal that ensured the north Londoners earned three points, it seems accusations of ‘VARsenal’, fall short.

Tottenham would have comfortably stayed up rather than requiring three points on the final day of the season, per AceOdds, and finished nine points clear of the relegation zone. The Lilywhites survived thanks to Joao Palhinha’s effort in a win over Everton.

Relegated West Ham would have avoided their fate, and Nottingham Forest instead would have completed the bottom three alongside Burnley and Wolves. The Irons’ 3-0 win over Leeds would have seen them survive and Forest sent down on the final day of the season as they drew with Bournemouth.

Chelsea would have seen their disastrous season end even worse. The midtable Blues would have descended into the bottom half without the assistance of VAR. Their final day dispatchers, Sunderland, enjoyed a fantastic season in finishing seventh and qualifying for the Europa League.

Without the help of VAR, the Black Cats would have still enjoyed a strong Premier League survival, but without the same kind of glory by dropping below local rivals Newcastle and into 13th spot.

Report by mirror.co.uk/sport/football/