Chris Kavanagh's controversial officiating in Newcastle's 3-1 FA Cup win at Aston Villa has reignited the VAR debate, despite the technology not being in use. Key errors included Tammy Abraham's offside opener, Lucas Digne's undetected handball, and a missed red card, highlighting how the absence of VAR can create just as many problems as its presence.

Former Aston Villa boss Tim Sherwood believes VAR is here to stay but needs improvement, while Newcastle's Eddie Howe admits he's torn on the issue. UEFA's referees chief Roberto Rosetti warns VAR has become too microscopic, with many arguing officials now over-reliant on technology rather than making decisive calls on the pitch.

The VAR dilemma continues with no clear solution. Former Premier League official Mark Halsey criticized head of referees Howard Webb, suggesting cricket-style challenges as a potential alternative that could reduce both errors and stoppages, though the technology's overall accuracy has improved since its introduction six years ago.