Chelsea have received clarification over two controversial penalty decisions involving Cole Palmer and Brian Brobbey during their 1-0 Premier League defeat to Sunderland at the Stadium of Light.

According to a report by Football London on Sunday, November 8, 2026, VAR confirmed that referee Jarred Gillett was correct not to award Chelsea a penalty following a challenge on Palmer because the contact occurred outside the penalty area.

The incident happened in the 24th minute when Palmer attempted to break into a dangerous position but was brought down by Sunderland players Noad Sadiki and Luke O'Nien.

The Chelsea forward appealed for a spot-kick, but Gillett allowed play to continue. VAR subsequently reviewed the incident and supported the referee's decision.

The Premier League Match Centre explained the decision in a statement on X, saying: "The referee’s call of no penalty to Chelsea was checked and confirmed by VAR. VAR: 'Confirming the on-field decision of play on, any contact with Palmer occurs outside the penalty area.'"

However, Chelsea were left frustrated by a different penalty decision involving Brobbey later in the first half.

The Sunderland striker went down following a challenge from Levi Colwill, with the referee pointing to the spot despite the Chelsea defender's protests.

Colwill insisted he was being held, but the decision stood, allowing Enzo Le Fee to convert the penalty and give Sunderland the only goal of the encounter.

Former England striker Chris Sutton offered his assessment of both incidents, suggesting Palmer had reason to feel disappointed.

"I'm not so sure there's a touch on the ball from the challenging Sunderland defenders. Palmer is screaming for a foul. But he's hard done by there, Palmer. It's a foul isn't it?"

On Brobbey's penalty, Sutton acknowledged the contact from Colwill, adding: "Maybe it's six of one, half a dozen for the other in terms of the holding, but Colwill clips him.

"Xabi Alonso's not happy but Brobbey warned his team. Colwill has been bullied by Brobbey. Sunderland deservedly in front."

Chelsea attempted to find an equaliser after the break, with Estêvão introduced at half-time. However, the teenager missed an opportunity after being played through by Morgan Rogers.

Mike Penders also prevented Sunderland from extending their advantage with a close-range save against Wilson Isidor.

The defeat leaves Chelsea disappointed after a match in which both penalty incidents attracted attention, although the VAR explanation confirmed that the decision involving Palmer was consistent with the laws of the game.