UEFA's 'stance' on controversial handball incident during Arsenal vs Real Madrid emerges after VAR refuse to give penalty

UEFA's view on the controversial handball incident during Arsenal's Champions League clash against Real Madrid has been revealed.

The Gunners welcomed European champions Madrid to the Emirates Stadium on Tuesday night as they pair faced off in the first leg of the quarter-final.

During the first half, Arsenal were denied a penalty after Declan Rice's shot hit Madrid defender Raul Asencio's arm.

After a VAR check, official Bastian Dankert told the referee to resume play as the on-field decision of no penalty was confirmed.

Speaking on Amazon Prime's coverage of the match, former referee Mark Clattenburg was quick to explain why a penalty was not given, citing the difference in UEFA's regulations compared to the Premier League.

Mark Clattenburg explains UEFA's stance on handballs after Arsenal denied penalty against Real Madrid

He said: "I'd be amazed if that's given. The distance is very, very short. He isn't putting his arm out to make himself bigger.

"What we have to remember is UEFA has a different criteria to the Premier League with handball. They are more strict on their punishment on the handball."

Clattenburg added: "Given that the hand is out-stretched, UEFA would try and give a penalty. But I don't agree that this is a penalty kick."

Arsenal were denied a penalty against Real Madrid. Image: Getty

Speaking on commentary for BBC Radio 5 Live, former England defender Matt Upson agreed with the officials.

He said: "That is ridiculous. The cross from Gabriel Martinelli comes in, Declan Rice gets there first and Raul Asencio is a yard away and yes it hits his hand but it is not a penalty."

Meanwhile, Newcastle United legend Alan Shearer said to Amazon Prime: "I would be amazed if that is given. His arm is down, it's not a penalty for me."

In the second half, Arsenal took the lead through a stunning free kick from Declan Rice.