VAR Blunders and Decline in Standards

Keith Hackett, a former Premier League referee, has publicly criticized the current group of officials in the top flight. Hackett's comments come in the wake of several high-profile VAR blunders this season, with the ex-referee stating that the officials are simply "not good enough".

Laziness and Decline in Management Skills

Hackett didn't hold back in his scathing review of the current standards, also highlighting the officials' laziness and decline in required management and communication skills. According to Hackett, some referees who have reached the Premier League lack the necessary capabilities to officiate at such a high level.

VAR and Lazy Refereeing

Hackett believes that VAR is promoting lazy refereeing, with officials hesitating on clear penalty decisions. He argues that the role of the referee should be to make the decision, with VAR stepping in to assist if necessary. Hackett also points out a lack of basic law knowledge among referees, emphasizing the importance of regular study and advancement in refereeing.

Keith Hackett, now 79 years old, had a successful career as a referee, officiating in the 1981 FA Cup final, as well as the Euros and Olympics in 1988. He later became a Premier League referee, overseeing 36 matches between 1992 and 1994.