The Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system was the focus of attention as London rivals Chelsea and Arsenal played out an uninspiring goalless draw in their Carabao Cup semifinal 1st leg clash at Stamford Bridge.

The system was put to use by centre referee Martin Atkinson to sort out the controversial moments of a forgettable game largely dominated by the home side.

Both sides meet again in a fortnight’s time at the Emirates Stadium for the 2nd leg to determine who goes through to the Wembley final against either Bristol City or Manchester City.

With the draw, Arsenal are now unbeaten in four clashes with Premier League champions Chelsea this season.

This also represents the first time since 2002/03 (Sunderland and Blackburn Rovers) that two Premier League sides will play four successive draws in a season.