Howard Webb says referees would welcome video technology

Former Premier League referee Howard Webb says referees would not be opposed to the use of video technology and replays if they are implemented correctly.

Webb, who retired from refereeing in 2014, was also the technical director for Premier Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL), the UK's official refereeing organization. He stepped down from that role and is now a pundit for BT Sport. Having seen video technology demos in action, Webb says the only way to make a decision on its use is to try it out in an official capacity.

"There is a misunderstanding in the public's eyes that referees would be against it because it would undermine their authority but even the PGMOL were pretty positive about what is happening here," Webb told Soccerex, quoted in ESPN.

"We went to Amsterdam Arena to look at this in practice," he continued. "We are keen to look at anything which makes us more credible on the field of play and means we make less mistakes."

Video technology is a system whereby some referee decisions are made using replays, in order to ensure accuracy. Fast plays or controversial calls could be further examined before a decision is made, ensuring that the correct action is undertaken.

It's a controversial topic among FIFA's executive ranks, with several high-profile bureaucrats opposing its use in soccer. The main arguments against its use point out that it could be disruptive to the natural fluidity of the game. But, Webb says the benefits outweigh the drawbacks in making the game more palatable and fair to each team.

"If the goal is to be 100 percent accurate on decision-making we won't reach that because what you and I think on a handball, for example, can vary because football is a subjective matter," Webb said. "But what this system would do is rule out those clear mistakes which can affect not only a game but the career of a referee, whose career can be tainted by one particular decision."