Exclusive: Hackett highlights VAR 'problem' after Nkunku incident in Chelsea win
Keith Hackett has highlighted a "problem" with VAR in cup competitions after a key mistake was made in the Chelsea vs Morecambe tie.
The former PGMOL chief and ex-FIFA official exclusively told Football Insider that the cost of VAR prevents the system from being used in the early stages of domestic cup competitions.
Despite incidents like the officials failing to recognise their error in the Chelsea vs Morecambe, Hackett offers an alternative perspective.
He would rather cash generated in cup competitions go towards benefiting lower-league clubs, rather than the officiating technology. This is despite stadiums like Stamford Bridge being able to host it, due to the "resource problem" and financial constraints to clubs in lower divisions.
Lower league clubs take advantage without VAR despite Chelsea troubles
The mistake Hackett refers to is the penalty incident. Morecambe’s goalkeeper, Harry Burgoyne, was clearly off his line when saving Christopher Nkunku’s spot-kick.
Despite this, Hackett argued that such errors don’t require VAR, as officials should have identified the infringement.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider about the controversy surrounding VAR’s absence in matches where it has been used for other competitions, Hackett shared his view:
"It is my view that VAR in cup competitions should only be used at the semi-final and final stages.
"Frankly, there is a resource problem and a cost.
"I would much rather see the money generated going into the lower league clubs who take part in the competition."
Despite missing the penalty, Nkunku scored later in the game as Chelsea secured a 5-0 win. It was a rare start for the Frenchman, who has been linked with a move to Manchester United.
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