Pundit backs drastic rule change as Man City controversy re-analysed
Frank McAvennie has backed suggestions that referees should be forced to speak to the press to explain their decisions after Man United’s goal against Man City was allowed to stand.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the former West Ham striker said the decision to have referees communicate with fans in the stadium won’t work.
As relayed by the Times’ Martyn Ziegler (18 January), the IFAB confirmed that referees at the Club World Cup next week will announce their reasons for VAR decisions to the stadium and TV audiences as part of a new trial.
Man United benefitted from a dubious offside decision in their 2-1 win over Man City last weekend (14 January).
Taking to Twitter (15 January) to share his frustrations, former City midfielder Joey Barton suggested referees should be interviewed after games to explain the reasons behind their decisions.
When asked if he agreed with Barton’s suggestion, McAvennie told Football Insider: “I think it is a better idea than what they are trying to come up with now.
“They are going to test referees speaking to supporters in the stadium. I do not want them speaking because they are arrogant anyway. The crowd will have a right go at them.
“They talk down to you, referees. Speak to them after the game and ask them to explain the decision, I am all for that.
“They want to be the centre of attention. No matter what the referee says during the game, they won’t change the mind of any supporters.
“But I would like to hear an explanation after the game. I would like for them to come out and talk like the managers do.“
In other news, an expert has told Pep Guardiola to ‘protect’ Kevin De Bruyne after new Man City development.