Sunday, December 22, 2024

Premier League clubs expected to reject Wolves’ VAR proposal

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Premier League clubs will reject Wolves’ bold bid to scrap VAR, talkSPORT understands.

Wolves need the support of at least 13 other clubs when they hold their two-day AGM starting in Harrogate on Friday.

It appears VAR is here to stay for one more year at leastCredit: Getty

However, it is expected a separate proposal from Aston Villa to increase the amount of money clubs can lose under PSR rules over a three-year period from £105m to £135m will get the go-ahead.

VAR was introduced to the English top-flight at the beginning of the 2019/20 season in order to help referees with key decisions.

But it’s proved to be a consistent source of controversy since it was brought into the Premier League amid a number of contentious and inconsistent decisions.

Wolves put forward the idea of scrapping it altogether, however, the motion was always going to be a tall order with 14 clubs needing to vote in favour for it to pass.

In a statement, Wolves – who listed nine reasons why they believe VAR should be scrapped – said: “The introduction of VAR in 2019/20 was a decision made in good faith and with the best interests of football and the Premier League at its heart.

“However, it has led to numerous unintended negative consequences that are damaging the relationship between fans and football, and undermining the value of the Premier League brand.

Wolves also said that the move came “after careful consideration and with the utmost respect for the Premier League, (referees body) PGMOL and our fellow competitors.”

The statement continued: “There is no blame to be placed — we are all just looking for the best possible outcome for football — and all stakeholders have been working hard to try and make the introduction of additional technology a success.

Wolves found themselves on the rough end of contentious VAR decisions, including their opening weekend defeat to Manchester United where they were denied a clear penaltyCredit: AFP

“However, after five seasons of VAR in the Premier League, it is time for a constructive and critical debate on its future.

“Our position is that the price we are paying for a small increase in accuracy is at odds with the spirit of our game, and as a result we should remove it from the 2024/25 season onwards.”

A Premier League spokesperson said: “The Premier League can confirm it will facilitate a discussion on VAR with our clubs at the annual general meeting next month.

“Clubs are entitled to put forward proposals at shareholders’ meetings and we acknowledge the concerns and issues around the use of VAR.

Forest were denied three penalties at Everton in April and they subsequently released the explosive statement

“However, the league fully supports the use of VAR and remains committed, alongside PGMOL, to make continued improvements to the system for the benefit of the game and fans.”

PGMOL chief Howard Webb has proposed a change to the way VAR decisions are communicated by suggesting referees could use PA systems in stadiums to explain them to the crowd.

VAR has been a huge talking point this season with Nottingham Forest making the headlines with a stunning statement hitting out at the officiating in their 2-0 defeat at Everton in April, the club accusing VAR official Stuart Atwell of supporting relegation rivals Luton.

Arguably, VAR’s most controversial appearance this season came during Tottenham’s 2-1 home win against Liverpool.

A huge breakdown in communication saw the goal get disallowed. The PGMOL admitted they made a serious mistake by ruling out Luis Diaz’s goalCredit: Sky Sports

Luis Diaz scored for the Reds but the goal was incorrectly ruled out for offside amid replays that showed he was onside.

The PGMOL released the audio from the VAR room at Stockley Park that showed the blunder, which was described as a ‘significant human error’.

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