VAR takes away the joy of scoring – Aubameyang

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang says VAR takes the joy out of scoring goals after his goal against Manchester United was scrutinised on Monday night.

The Gunners striker netted in the second half to pull his side level at Old Trafford, having seen Scott McTominay put the hosts in the lead before the break.

Aubameyang latched onto a pass from Bukayo Saka and went on to tuck it chip it over David de Gea, only to see his celebrations cut short as the assistant referee’s flag was raised.

The incident was checked by VAR and replays showed that United centre-back Harry Maguire, standing in front of the linesman, was playing the Gabon international onside and the goal was counted.

Aubameyang says he was confident he had not strayed offside but had a “strange feeling” while the goal was being checked.

“I was sure that I wasn’t offside. I was surprised that the referee whistled but I just finished as usual,” Aubameyang told Sky Sports.

“I always try to score even if the whistle goes.

“I heard the crowd saying it was offside but then it was a goal, so, I was happy!

“Yes, of course [it takes joy out of the celebration], it’s always a bit… it’s a strange feeling. You cannot celebrate 100 per cent. But it’s okay, I’m happy.”

The draw put an end to Arsenal’s three-game winning run, but they are still unbeaten in their last six matches in all competitions.

And Aubameyang was pleased with the way his side fought back after going a goal down so close to half-time.

“We’ll take [the point]. I thought the team fought very well today. We know it’s always hard to come here, we’ll take it.

“It’s not easy when you concede a goal just before half time and you are away, it’s tough, but we came back in the second half with a great spirit.

“We came back today and we came back last week too. Maybe we have to start with more strength, more confidence, because we have power and we can do great things.”