Premier League rejects idea of widening the scope of VAR next season

The Premier League is set to resist expanding VAR’s powers next season, despite changes to the laws that would allow video officials to intervene on corners and for second yellow cards.

According to the Guardian, the refereeing body Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL) has advised against broadening VAR’s remit.

PGMOL cited concerns about longer match delays, more disruption to the flow of games and increased pressure on officials.

The International Football Association Board (IFAB) approved the regulation tweak in February, paving the way for competitions to introduce wider VAR checks from next month.

FIFA is expected to use the updated system at the World Cup after lobbying for extra safeguards around potentially decisive incidents, particularly in knockout ties.

However, the Premier League appears unconvinced that further expansion would improve the competition.

There is reportedly little appetite among clubs to overrule PGMOL’s guidance ahead of next month’s annual general meeting, where they will formalise a final decision.

Broadcasters are also wary of additional stoppages that could extend already lengthy matches.

The debate has intensified following the controversial decision to disallow Callum Wilson’s late equaliser for West Ham United against Arsenal on Sunday.

Referee Chris Kavanagh, after consultation with VAR Darren England, penalised Pablo Felipe for contact on Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya before the ball crossed the line.

The incident has sparked a fierce reaction, with West Ham preparing to submit a formal complaint to PGMOL despite recognising it is unlikely to alter the outcome.

PGMOL chief Howard Webb is expected to address the decision on the latest edition of Match Officials Mic’d Up, with the refereeing body maintaining that they followed the correct process.

Concerns over grappling and physical blocking at corners are also set to be reviewed by IFAB after the World Cup, following a series of contentious incidents in the Premier League this season.

However, no concrete proposals have yet been advanced.