The VAR official who awarded Manchester City's decisive goal in the derby has been stood down from Premier League duties this weekend. Matt Donohue, who oversaw the controversial decision at Old Trafford, will not be involved in any top-flight match until at least October 10.

The Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL) has conceded it was an error for Donohue not to send referee Michael Oliver to the pitchside monitor for a review. The incident centred on whether Enzo Fernández, in an offside position, interfered with play in the build-up to Erling Haaland's 60th-minute winner. The goal was initially ruled out for offside before being allowed to stand following the VAR check.

Former Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney was scathing in his assessment of the decision. "I'm just so sick of this VAR, I think it's horrendous," Rooney told reporters. "It takes all the emotion off the game, the energy the game's played with, and to not see that and recognise Fernandez is in an offside position..."

He added, "Anyone who's played the game at any level understands that and knows that he's in an offside position..."

Assistant referee Blake Antrobus, who worked with Donohue during the derby, has also been omitted from the weekend's appointments. The decision was made by PGMOL's management team, led by chief refereeing officer Howard Webb, who is set to discuss the incident on the 'Match Officials: Mic'd Up' programme this Tuesday.

The decision comes as Manchester City continue their strong start to the season, sitting second in the Premier League with 12 points from four wins, a position fans can track in the latest standings. Haaland, who scored the contentious goal, is the club's top scorer this campaign with four goals in as many appearances. The team's form is formidable, having won their last five matches in all competitions, including a 5-0 victory over Norwich last time out. The squad's overall performance metrics are detailed on the club's stats page.

City now turn their focus to the next challenge, a home fixture against Sunderland on Saturday. The team will be looking to maintain their momentum and extend their winning run, with the full schedule of upcoming matches available on the fixtures page.

Further reading: espn.com