Eddie Howe says Newcastle should have been awarded a “clear” penalty against Chelsea.
Trevoh Chalobah nudged Anthony Gordon over in the box in the second half with Howe’s side 2-1 up.
But after a VAR check, a penalty was not awarded, something Howe was left confused by.
Should this have been given? 🤔
— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) December 20, 2025
Newcastle's call for a penalty is denied following a challenge from Trevoh Chalobah. @tntsports & @discoveryplusUK pic.twitter.com/1Zl62O3fV1
“I think the Anthony Gordon one was the standout one for me,” he said.
“I think anywhere else on the pitch and that’s a blatant free-kick. When it went to VAR, and of course they check everything, I thought it was going to be overturned.
“It’s a clear error. I think that was as clear a penalty as I’ve seen. The defender only focuses on Ant. They’ve said it’s shielding but I don’t agree with that analysis, so really disappointed that wasn’t given.
“I think that’s where VAR really should intervene.
“It’s a difficult one to work out because seeing it live, I thought it was clear.”
Newcastle had led by two goals at half-time thanks to a Nick Woltemade double, before goals from Reece James and Joao Pedro saw Chelsea take a point.
Howe admits the result was a disappointing one given his side’s performance but praised Woltemade for his resilience after bouncing back from last week’s own goal in the defeat to Sunderland.
“I think he felt the love and support from the supporters on Wednesday,” Howe said. “That was a big moment for him.
“I think that was a really good performance from Nick today. I think that was the best he’s played for us.
“He looked really good athletically, pressed really well and helped us deliver that really impressive pressing performance. If the number nine and the first man who sets that doesn’t deliver it, the whole thing falls apart.
“He took his goals brilliantly, especially the second one which isn’t an easy finish. I’d probably say the only disappointment for him is he doesn’t get a hat-trick.”
On the draw, Howe added: “I’m really disappointed for the players because we deserved to win that game.”
clearly robbed by a very poor Ref.