FIFA told to make radical broadcast change amid Liverpool controversy – ‘the fans deserve it’
Noel Whelan has insisted FIFA should explore the possibility of allowing the VAR communication process to be broadcast live to fans after recent controversy at Liverpool.
The former Leeds striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, insisted the change would provide more “clarity” and would also ensure officials are “held to account” for poor decision-making.
VAR had a relatively scandal-free week in the Premier League, with Jarrod Bowen’s saved penalty during West Ham’s 1-0 loss against Liverpool the most contentious decision overturned by the VAR system.
As seen in footage from Sky Sports’ YouTube channel, Bowen looked to have been fouled by Joe Gomez while trying to bring the ball down – and a spot-kick was given after VAR review despite Stuart Attwell initially allowing play to continue.
Reports at the start of this season had suggested that the audio from VAR decisions would be broadcast in the Premier League – but doing so remains against FIFA’s strict rules surrounding the technology.
Whelan insisted “pressure” and scrutiny must be put on officials in the same way it is put upon players and managers.
He told Football Insider’s Ewan Kingsbury: “It would be a help for us to know how they get to some of these bizarre decisions.
“I think it’s right. As much as there is pressure on players and managers, there should be pressure on VAR and officials too.
“Whether the decision ends up being right or wrong, whether we like it or not – everyone needs clarity.
“I think the fans deserve it. I know they do it in cricket, so why not with football?
“It’d clear up any misdemeanours and wrong decisions. It will help hold officials to account for poor decisions.”
In other news, pundit claims Liverpool can rocket up the table if Jurgen Klopp makes one simple change.