Wolves’ proposal to scrap VAR is expected to fall flat at a vote amongst Premier League clubs on Thursday as their fellow sides simply want the system to be fine-tuned.
One senior source at a rival side told Mail Sport that they are in favour of video technology but would like assurances of quicker decisions from the PGMOL as well as clarification on how offsides will be decided. That has seemed to be a prevailing sentiment among clubs.
Wolves formally submitted a resolution to the Premier League in May, triggering a vote on whether VAR should remain in place for the 2024-25 season. It followed a number of controversial calls which went against them in the previous campaign.
It is believed they stand little chance of attracting the 14 votes required for their proposal to be accepted by their peers, who realise there are flaws with VAR but that it is worth persisting with.
Among the clubs keen for the system to stay – but with positive amendments – are Manchester United, Liverpool, and West Ham.
Wolves’ proposals to scrap VAR from next season are set to be rejected at Thursday’s AGM
The matter will be discussed at the Premier League shareholders’ meeting in Harrogate
Liverpool and Man United are among the clubs said to be in favour of keeping VAR
PGMOL chief Howard Webb is tasked with overseeing improvements heading into the next season. It is expected to be confirmed that referees will be allowed to explain VAR decisions using stadiums’ PA systems to ensure supporters are not left as confused as they have been. Semi-automated offsides are also likely to be introduced.
That technology is already used in the Champions League and Serie A, and would mean that incorrect calls like Luis Diaz’s offside for Liverpool against Tottenham would not have taken place.
Mail Sport last month reported how Wolves were the hardest hit team for decisions going against them over the past five seasons – since VAR was introduced.
Wolves had a number of VAR decisions go against them last season, with one of the most notable coming when a penalty was not awarded for Manchester United’s Andre Onana clattering into Sasa Kalajdzic in stoppage time of a 1-0 defeat.
Squad cost controls and a potential spending cap are also set to be discussed (Premier League chief executive Richard Masters pictured)
Semi-automated technology is hoped to eliminate offside errors in the 2024-25 season
The incorrect Luis Diaz offside decision earlier this season undermined trust in the VAR system
Wolves had a number of decisions go against them this season including the penalty which wasn’t given for Andre Onana clattering into Sasa Kalajdzic during a 1-0 Man United victory
Ahead of Thursday’s vote, the Premier League said: ‘The Premier League can confirm it 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 and we acknowledge the concerns and issues around the use of VAR.
‘However, the league fully supports the use of VAR and remains committed, alongside PGMOL (Professional Game Match Officials Limited), to make continued improvements to the system for the benefit of the game and fans.’