Blatter rules out technology for refs

FIFA president Sepp Blatter has ruled out the introduction of any electronic devices to help improve refereeing standards as …

FIFA president Sepp Blatter has ruled out the introduction of any electronic devices to help improve refereeing standards as he insisted they would "destroy the game".

Blatter accepts that improvements are needed in the refereeing sphere after several high-profile mistakes by officials at the World Cup, most notably by linesmen over offside decisions.

However, he believes that this can be addressed by more instruction, better communication and choosing officials on merit rather than evenly from across the entire world.

Blatter also recently speculated about the possibility of introducing a fourth, and presumably fifth, official behind the goal to help the referee.

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However, he ruled out the introduction of 'magic eyes' to prove whether the ball has crossed the goalline or an extra referee in the stands to review certain decisions, as in cricket or American Football.

Blatter declared: "I will make sure that no technology will be introduced into refereeing because we shall rely on human beings.

"What we must do is make sure that refereeing standards will always be improved by courses, technical instruction and tactical instruction.

"It is of paramount importance, especially for linesmen, that they know football and have a feeling for football to see how the game develops.

"But as for introducing technology, then no. It would destroy the essential element in the game and that's emotion.

"If the game becomes scientific, it will take away emotion. It means we will have nobody discussing as to whether there was an offside or not, or whether a tackle was inside the penalty area or not."

PA