Celtic controversy: Keith Wyness shares savage verdict after VAR drama

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Published on:

25 Apr 2024, 11:30 am

Aberdeen’s former chief Keith Wyness has claimed it is "no surprise" Scottish referees are not well-regarded after the Scottish Cup semi-final loss against Celtic.

Speaking on the new edition of Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, the 66-year-old – who served as CEO at Aberdeen between 2000 and 2004, had lengthy spells as the chief of Everton and Aston Villa and now runs a football consultancy advising elite clubs – claimed Scottish clubs have "just gotten used to" the poor state of officiating.

Celtic won out against Aberdeen after a penalty shoot-out at Hampden Park on Saturday (20 April) after drawing 3-3 over 120 minutes.

With the Hoops winning 3-2 in extra-time, the Dons were awarded a penalty.

However, following a lengthy VAR check, referee Don Robertson overturned his decision and awarded Celtic a freekick for Junior Hoilett’s challenge on Alistair Johnston moments before.

'No surprise' Scottish referees are slated, says Wyness after Celtic controversy

Officials also ruled in the first half that Celtic defender Liam Scales had handled just outside the box.

Wyness told Football Insider‘s Insider Track podcast: “From what I know, I don’t think Aberdeen, the club, complained at any level about the refereeing. The fans did, obviously.

“The officiating in Scotland has been the subject of a lot of comment this season, and a lot of negative comment.

“It’s really no surprise.

“Clubs have just gotten used to it, and maybe it will all even up come the end of the season.

“It’s part of the drama, and now it’s time to move on to next season for Aberdeen.”

In other news, Celtic and Southampton race to sign Bayer Leverkusen ace.

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