In an effort to improve communication with fans, chief refereeing officer Howard Webb has said Premier League referees could soon announce to stadium crowds and television audiences why they have changed their decisions after visiting the VAR monitor.
Explanations would only be announced when a referee has visited the pitch-side monitor and not VAR checks which do not result in the on-field decision being overturned.
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The change must still be approved by the Premier League, although that is expected to be a formality for it to be introduced for next season.
Speaking on his regular television show “Match Officials Mic’d Up,” Webb said he hopes the move will help fans understand the VAR process and offer more clarity.
“It does need improving, doesn’t it,” Webb said when asked about the information available within the grounds. “When you hear the clips on shows like this it makes sense what’s happening; it all becomes apparent. We’re looking at ways to improve the in-stadium experience.
“One of the things you’ll have seen maybe in FIFA tournaments, like the Women’s World Cup, is announcements from the referee once they’ve been to the screen. So we’re looking at that, we’re keeping an open mind about whether that’s something we could utilise in the Premier League.
“It would be really useful for the referee to be able to speak to all of the people in the stadium — [to explain] the rationale.”
