PETER CROUCH admits he would never have done his robot celebration in the era of VAR.
Video technology has come under intense scrutiny this season by players, managers and pundits with claims it is ruining the game with its inconsistency and constant involvement.
Peter Crouch made the ‘robot’ iconic after scoring for England in 2006
It looks like it is here to stay since being introduced in January 2018 – but the refereeing body PGMOL are under pressure to make it more bearable.
Former Tottenham and Liverpool striker Crouch first did the robot dance for England after scoring against Jamaica in a 2006 World Cup warm-up.
But Crouch – who retired in 2019 – says his famous celebration may never have existed with VAR.
Speaking on BBC Radio 5 Live’s ‘That Peter Crouch Podcast’, he said: “There’s no way I would’ve done the robot.
“I looked like a complete imbecile anyway, imagine I did it and it was ruled out.”
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Crouch with partner Abbey ClancyCredit: Getty Images – Getty
After doing the dance against the Jamaicans, Crouch claimed he would only perform it again on the pitch if England won the World Cup or if he scored in the Champions League final.
But he brought it out for one last time when he became the oldest player to reach 100 Premier League goal for Stoke in February 2017 at the age of 36.
He said: “It was a bit of nostalgia, pulling it out. I was under a lot of pressure.
“It was a bit stiff to be honest. It’s been 10 years. I think I’ll have to retire it. Weddings and parties only now.”
On celebrating with VAR, Crouch added: “Have you seen anyone do a proper rehearsed celebration after a VAR decision?
“After three minutes of VAR, shirt off straight after?”
***Series 5 of That Peter Crouch Podcast begins today on BBC Sounds***
Abbey Clancy’s GMB interview gatecrashed by Peter Crouch after claiming he hasn’t helped her during lockdown
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
