Premier League issue explanation as Tottenham denied late penalty against Leeds by VAR

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Tottenham had a shout for a late penalty denied after VAR review during their 1-1 draw with Leeds United.

The Premier League have explained why Tottenham weren't awarded a late penalty against Leeds United. Spurs had to settle for a 1-1 draw in Monday night's game at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

Spurs did, though, have a late penalty shout when James Maddison went down under a challenge from Lukas Nmecha in added time. Referee Jarred Gillett waved away appeals, but a VAR review followed.

However, the original decision was upheld. Offering an explanation on their Match Centre X account, the Premier League said: "The referee’s call of no penalty to Tottenham Hotspur was checked and confirmed by VAR – with it deemed that Nmecha played the ball."

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While the review was underway, Sky Sports co-commentator Alan Smith spotted the Leeds player's touch on the ball.

"VAR will certainly get involved here!" He said. "He certainly catches Maddison. Does he get a touch on the ball? He might get the slightest - which could save him!"

After a cagey first half, things were going to plan for Spurs when Mathys Tel opened the scoring early in the second period, putting the ball beyond Karl Darlow. But it was Tel involved in the equalising goal.

The Tottenham man attempted to clear the ball in his own penalty area, but caught Ethan Ampadu. A VAR review awarded Leeds a penalty, with Dominic Calvert-Lewin giving Antonin Kinsky no chance from the spot.

When announcing the decision, referee Gillett said: "After review, Tottenham No.11 commits a foul on the Leeds attacker. The final decision is a penalty kick."

Maddison's time on the pitch was his first minutes since returning from a long-term knee injury. The midfielder could be a key player in the final two matches of the season.