Sepp Blatter appears to be something of a late tech convert. Having long rallied against the introduction of goal line technology, the FIFA president now wants more tech to be added to the beautiful game.
Speaking at the global Soccerex conference in Manchester, the 78-year-old has outlined plans to introduce video referrals to top flight football matches.
In a move which would echo the ‘challenges’ available to American Football’s coaches in the NFL, Blatter has suggested that the new system would allow Premier League or World Cup managers to use video replays to question a referee’s decision once or twice a half.
"They have the right in the half, twice or once, to challenge a refereeing decision but only when the game is stopped," he told the gathering of football dignitaries and media.
Discussing how the system would work, he added: "There must be a television monitor but by the television company and not by another referee.
"And then the referee and the coach, they will go then to look, and then the referee may change his mind, as it is the case in tennis, for instance."
Although Blatter’s plans are very much in their infancy, he has suggested the technology could be trialled as early as next year.
"It can only be done where there is television coverage of all the matches," he stated.
"Or in one FIFA competition, we can try in a youth competition, an Under-20, like next year when we are in New Zealand."
The additional of goal line technology has been well received by many football fans, given its instant decision making. If a ball has crossed the line, the referee will be alerted by a special watch within one second.
It has been suggested that the addition of further technology, such as video referrals will break down the flow of a game too much.
Do you think football should adopt video referrals or should FIFA leave the sport alone? Share your thoughts via the comments section below.
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Via: BBC
