Premier League responds to Forest VAR controversy, defends referees in Football Sport Express.co.uk.
Premier League refereeing has been under scrutiny recently, with Nottingham Forest making an astonishing attack on officials following their 2-0 defeat by Everton. They complained about the rejection of three penalty appeals and suggested that the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) was biased.
Premier League chief executive Richard Masters has defended English referees but acknowledged the need to improve VAR communication with fans. Masters stated that the Premier League is investigating Forest’s statement and emphasized the importance of enhancing VAR and rules to allow more transparency for fans.
He also expressed disappointment at the implications made about referees and the reasons for their decisions. Forest had requested the release of audio connected to the penalty appeals but have agreed to a private hearing with Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL).
The Premier League is advocating for live discussions between referees and VARs to be broadcasted, which would require a rule change by the International Football Association Board (IFAB). The league is also considering the direct communication of VAR review outcomes to fans and TV viewers, possibly happening soon.
Additionally, they plan to introduce semi-automated offside technology later this year to expedite the VAR decision-making process.
