Chelsea claim Tariq Lamptey handball in Brighton FA Cup tie

Replays showed the ball came back of Tariq Lamptey’s right hand in a pinball-type moment just before Albion’s winning goal.

Kaoru Mitoma then chested down Georginio Rutter’s pass before guiding home the finish which secured a 2-1 success in the fourth round.

Marc Cucurella led Chelsea protests that Lamptey should be penalised.

Referee Jarred Gillett waved play on and VAR was not in operation.

Former England goalkeeper Robert Green and ex-Wales defender Ashley Williams both felt the ref got it right.

Asked about a possible handball, Green said: “It wasn’t. It’s an accidental handball and, unless Lamptey puts it in the goal, it’s not.

“Yes, it hits him on the hand, it’s a natural action in football.

“His arms are going to go up, he is striking the ball.

“Chelsea have two attempts to clear the ball, it hits another player on the back and then that (Mitoma’s control) is off the shoulder.

“As they call it in football, that is off the green zone. You are fine, go ahead, score the goal.

“I don’t think there is an argument. Yes, it hits Lamptey on the hand. No, it’s not a handball.”

Williams added: “I am with Rob on it.”

Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca saw things differently.

He said: “I think the handball is quite clear but in the last two or three days there are many moments in different games that, without VAR, it is more complicated.”