Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers has been sharing his thoughts on the Scottish FA’s decision to start up a new ‘VAR Review’ show, also discussing how Willie Collum is doing in his new role as head of referees.
Published monthly and highlighting contentious refereeing calls throughout the season, the new show is designed to bring more transparency to decision-making at the SFA.
The first episode was a strong start with Collum admitting he felt the on-pitch refereeing team and VAR got a decision wrong in not awarding Kyogo Furuhashi a penalty against Kilmarnock on the opening day of the season.
If we get that kind of honesty in review of high-profile poor officiating then it can only improve standards within the refereeing department and build better trust between referees, clubs and supporters.
Brendan Rodgers says new SFA approach ‘can only be applauded’
Brendan Rodgers is certainly a fan, responding when asked about the new initiative on Friday.
The Celtic boss said: “I thought it was great, and at the time I spoke to Willie about it. I felt at the time it was a penalty, then I spoke to him on the Monday, and he was very, very good I have to say. He was very clear on his thoughts and he said that at the time.
“It can only be applauded – I think the whole thing about transparency is what we want. He’s coming out, he’s calling it as it is. He’s just come off the field from refereeing, so he knows the temperature in there as an official. I think his experience will really help.
“I know he’s trying to have an educational programme, because there aren’t so many top referees up here, and I say that in the nicest way just in terms of guys that are coming through. Guys like Willie who have experience and others will help those guys come through.
“I thought it was open, and honest, but he can’t do that every single weekend. Your phone lines would be really busy! He can do it the way they’ve planned to do it like every month. I thought it was good, and honest and it will help the referees to increase their standard and their level.”
Public accountability is well overdue
For decades the Scottish FA and referee representatives have had a cagey, defensive relationship with media and supporters. In my experience, they don’t like criticism, even if it’s justified.
So I have to concur with Rodgers, this is a positive first step. There’s a long way to go, of course. What we want most is correct decisions on the pitch, not simply an admission of mistakes.
However, praise should be given when progressive ideas come to the fore and hopefully this new show sends a message that officials can’t hide behind awful calls anymore.
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