It's turning out to be quite the Premier League season in the Midlands as Aston Villa and Wolves exceed expectations ahead of the halfway point in the campaign.
Unai Emery's side have proven themselves to be real top-four contenders, with some pundits even asking the question of whether the Villains could mount a surprise title charge as they keep the likes of Manchester City, Arsenal and Liverpool in touching distance. Meanwhile at Wolves, many had earmarked Gary O'Neil's side as relegation candidates but the side continues to show signs of promise as the manager ushers in a new era at Molineux.
Sadly, it's proving to be a top-flight season where many of the club's achievements are being overshadowed by the ever-present VAR debate. The refereeing system has impacted both Aston Villa and Wolves this season, and BirminghamWorld looks at what the Premier League table would look like without VAR.
1. 20th - Sheffield United
Points without VAR: 5. Difference: 0. Photo: Getty Images
2. 19th - Burnley
Points without VAR: 9. Difference: +2. Photo: Getty Images
3. 18th - Luton Town
Points without VAR: 9. Difference: 0. Photo: Getty Images
4. 17th - Everton
Points without VAR: 10* (*10 point deduction) Difference: 0. Photo: Getty Images