Wolves have demanded that VAR is scrapped.
The Black Country club has submitted a formal request to the Premier League asking for the system to be binned from the start of next season. Their resolution - which must be voted upon at the organisation’s annual general meeting next month - is already understood to have backing of a few clubs.
A Wolves’ spokesman said: “The introduction of VAR was a decision made in good faith and with the best interests of football and the Premier League at heart. However, it has led to numerous unintended consequences that are damaging the relationship between fans and football.
“They include the impact on goal celebrations and the spontaneous passion that makes football special. There is frustration and confusion inside stadiums due to lengthy VAR checks and poor communication along with continued errors, a more hostile atmosphere with protests, booing of the Premier League anthem and chants against VAR.”
Wolves also allege that officials are being undermined because of its use and that the post-match chatter is dominated by arguments over it.
Premier League odds and betting tipsThe Molineux club has found itself at the centre of numerous on-field issues this season including on the opening day against Manchester United at Old Trafford when Andre Onana crashed into Sasa Kalajdzic. VAR failed to award a penalty for which refs’ supremo Howard Webb later apologised.
The system also didn’t spot that a penalty awarded for Luton Town one month later should have been overturned as the ball hit midfielder Joao Gomes’s leg before cannoning into his arm.
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Several more controversial calls have tested the patience of manager Gary O’Neil who called for the end of VAR six months ago. The latest incident last month - in which a late Max Kilman header against West Ham was wiped out after officials intervened - received criticism not just in the home ranks but also had support from Hammers’ boss David Moyes.
A Premier League spokesman said: “We can confirm we will facilitate a discussion on VAR with our clubs at the annual general meeting next month. Clubs are entitled to put forward proposals at shareholders’ meetings. We acknowledge the concerns and issues around the use of VAR.
“However, the league fully supports the use of VAR and remains committed, alongside the PGMOL, to make continued improvements to the system for the benefit of the game and fans.”
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