VAR official REMOVED from Champions League role after PSG vs Newcastle controversy

The VAR official who decided to award PSG a controversial late penalty during Tuesday's 1-1 draw against Newcastle has been removed from his role for a Champions League clash tonight.

Polish official Tomasz Kwiatkowski was on duty at the Parc des Princes, and decided to give the spot kick for a perceived handball by Newcastle defender Tino Livramento.

Kylian Mbappe stepped up to convert the 98th-minute penalty to rescue a point for Luis Enrique's side.

The result could have major ramifications for their Champions League group, with PSG keeping their position in second - two points ahead of Newcastle - with one group game remaining.

The penalty was not given by referee Szymon Marciniak - who officiated the World Cup final between Argentina and France - but reversed the decision after Kwiatkowski invited him to view the incident on the VAR screen.

Kwiatkowski was due to be on VAR duty for tonight's clash between Real Sociedad and RB Salzburg. But he has now been removed from the role, as per reports.

The identity of the Polish official's replacement has yet to be revealed. The 45-year-old regularly officiates in the Polish top flight and has experience in the middle in European competition.

Newcastle boss Eddie Howe was critical of the decision made by VAR, stating: "I feel it is a poor decision and it's hugely frustrating for us, as you know how little time there is left in the game.

"There is nothing we can do about it now."

"I feel it is a poor decision and it's hugely frustrating for us as you know how little time there is left in the game. There is nothing we can do about it now."

The Magpies must now beat AC Milan at St James' Park on the final matchweek of the Champions League group stage, and hope PSG do not win at Borussia Dortmund, to secure a spot in the last 16 of the competition.