Ex-Premier League referee: Liverpool set for big-money payout ‘ASAP’ as new controversy emerges
Keith Hackett has called on the Premier League to introduce semi-automated offside technology “as soon as possible” following VAR controversy as Liverpool drew with Wolves in the FA Cup on Saturday (7 January).
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the ex-Fifa and Premier League referee insisted the “big cost” is “well worth making” for top-flight clubs as the English game seeks to be at the forefront of technological advancements.
As shown in footage from the ITV Football Twitter account (7 January), Wolves’ Toti Gomes thought he had bagged the winner against Liverpool in their FA Cup clash, only for the goal to be disallowed for offside by the linesman on the far side.
It later transpired that the decision by the on-field assistant was upheld by the VAR system overseeing the match because no camera angle was available to question the decision.
The tie finished 2-2 and Liverpool will now travel to Molineux for a replay on 17 January to decide who will face Brighton in the fourth round.
The semi-automated system, which was used at the World Cup and during the Champions League group stage, will be adopted in the Italian top division from 27 January.
Hackett told Football Insider’s Ewan Kingsbury: “I don’t think they need to trial this technology [in the later rounds of the FA Cup].
“It’s just a question of installing the cameras, setting them up, using the software.
“But look at the investment we’ve put into goal-line technology.
“At the very highest level, the Premier League – I expect this semi-automated system to be brought in as quickly as possible.
“Technology advances, and it’s so important that the Premier League is at the front of that – not the back.
“It’s a big cost, but it’s a cost well worth making.”
In other news, pundit suggests real reason for Liverpool snubbing Christopher Nkunku.