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      Real Madrid break protocol in huge Bayern clash as TNT Sports commentator says ‘I thought there was a rule against this’

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      REAL MADRID broke protocol during their Champions League clash with Bayern Munich.The two sides met at the Santiago Bernabeu on Wednesday night in their semi-final second leg.Real Madrid broke protocol during their Champions League clash with Bayern MunichCredit: TNT SportsThe hosts had a goal ruled out by VAR for a foul on Joshua KimmichCredit: TNT SportsReal Madrid came from behind to book their place in next month’s final at Wembley Stadium against Borussia Dortmund.However, they were made to wait for their equaliser after having a goal disallowed by VAR.The Spanish giants thought they had levelled the score after a corner routine deflected in off Bayern scorer Alphonso Davies.Referee Szymon Marciniak was sent to the screen, though, before ruling the goal out for a foul on Joshua Kimmich.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLNacho Fernandez had shoved the full-back to the floor before prodding the ball towards goal.During the VAR review, replays of the incident were shown on the big screen inside the stadium.This breached IFAB protocol, however, with TNT Sports commentator Darren Fletcher stating: “I thought there was some sort of rule against that happening,” after spotting the replays were being displayed.Football lawmakers IFAB announced last summer that VAR replays must not be shown inside stadiums until the match officials have made their decision.Most read in Champions LeagueCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSSecretary Lukas Brud told Sky Sports News: “We have to protect referees.”We want to avoid referees feeling pressured or influenced by players, managers or fans as they are in the process of making a decision.Moment riot cop hits fan with baton as police and supporters clash in Madrid ahead of Real’s clash with Bayern Munich”We do not allow decision-making footage to be shown while it is under consideration.”The incident came after the officials had earlier missed a second ball on the pitch as Real Madrid almost scored.Fans were left confused after Los Blancos took a throw-in with another ball already on the pitch.There was also further VAR drama as Real completed a dramatic late turnaround.Joselu capitalised on a mistake from Manuel Neuer to equalise in the 88th minute.His winning goal three minutes later was then awarded by VAR after the on-field offside decision was overturned upon review.Replays were shown inside the stadium during Szymon Marciniak’s VAR reviewCredit: TNT SportsIFAB rules prevent VAR replays from being shown before the decision is madeCredit: Getty More

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      Inside Ipswich’s multi-million pound Premier League plan with ‘non-negotiable changes’ and ‘hell of a lot to do’

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      IPSWICH TOWN are set to splash out “several million pounds” after earning Premier League promotion.The Suffolk side were automatically promoted to the top flight after securing 96 points in a remarkable 90-goal Championship campaign.Ipswich’s Kayden Jackson led the celebrations after his club earned back-to-back promotionsCredit: RexBut the club are set to spend millions in order to host Prem football next yearCredit: PAVAR will need to be installed at Portman Road ahead of it’s return to the PremCredit: Getty Images – GettyIt will be the first time in 22 years that the Tractor Boys will be in the top tier after Saturday’s 2-0 victory over Huddersfield, who were relegated to League One.But chief executive Mark Ashton said there was “a hell of a lot of work to do” to ensure the club’s facilities met league standards.He said a planning application for a “big build” at the Playford Road training ground was to be submitted imminently.It followed Premier League officials visiting the club in January and handing over a list of work that would need to be done if Kieran McKenna’s side were promoted.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSRegulations show all top-flight teams need to have installed goal-line technology in order to compete.They must also facilitate the installation of equipment that would enable the use of video assistant refereeing.Ashton told BBC Radio Suffolk: “There’s several million pounds worth of works to do.”That’s going to mean some quite big infrastructure changes at Portman Road over the summer.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThe 52-year-old said builders had already been on site at Playford Road to plan the impending improvements.He added: It’s going to see some changes, it’s things we have to do that are non-negotiable from the Premier League.EXCLUSIVE: Kieran McKenna addresses his Ipswich future, what he learned from Jose Mourinho and wanting Premier League football”Once I’ve had time to breathe, I’ll talk to the fans so they know what’s going on.”But Ipswich’s promotion will bring millions to the area.Terry Baxter, who represents local businesses in Ipswich Central Business Improvement District, said the financial and emotional benefits will be “massive”.He told ITV: “We’re talking about somewhere between £500 and £600 million worth of economic benefit to the area and that’s huge for a town like Ipswich.”Similarly, Luton Town had to splash out similar amounts of cash after they were promoted to the Premier League following last season’s play-off final victory over Coventry.The Hatters were forced into paying out £10m on a new stand to meet the league’s broadcast requirements at Kenilworth Road.READ MORE SUN STORIESMuch was made of their historic home – particularly the away end that requires fans to walk over local residents’ back gardens.However, Ipswich will likely not have to fork out as much, given that their tier structures do meet the standards, after the Sir Alf Ramsey was rebuilt in 2001, and Sir Bobby Robson stand in 2009.Luton were forced into delaying home fixtures this seasonStairs lead up to the Oak Stand, running above residents’ gardens More

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      Astonishing moment referee ignores VAR and REFUSES to send players off for two-footed tackle and punch in face

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      THIS is the astonishing moment a referee ignored VAR’s recommendation and refused to send players off following chaos on the pitch.Uruguayan giants Nacional and Argentine aces River Plate played out a fiery Copa Libertadores group stage game on Tuesday night.A ref failed to produce a red card for a shocking tackle during a fiery South American matchCredit: FOX Sports via X formerly TwitterThe official also ignored VAR regarding a clear punch to the face during a mass brawlCredit: FOX Sports via X formerly TwitterVisitors River took a 2-0 lead in the first half but were pegged back late on by two goals in as many minutes from Nacional’s Gonzalo Carneiro.However, things could have turned out differently had the referee opted to show several red cards earlier in the match.With River ahead 2-0 early in the second half, chaos reigned when Nacional’ player’s Leandro Lozano launched an outrageous two-footed lunge on an opponent.The naughty footballer left the floor as he walloped the River star, who cried out in pain from the resulting challenge.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSThis sparked a massive on-field melee between stars from both sides, with plenty of pushing and shoving.It quickly escalated as several punches were thrown, with footage showing River’s Paulo Diaz being punched in the face by Franco Romero of Nacional.And VAR quickly interjected to tell the ref to look at the pitch-side monitor for a potential two red cards.The official took his time on the sideline, watching several replays of the tackle and resulting brawl.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSHowever, in incredible scenes, Brazilian referee Anderson Daronco opted not to send anybody off.Instead, he dished out several yellows to keep the wild flow of the game going.River Plate to be punished after fans shot SEA FLARES and Boca Juniors players had to leave under riot police shields River were left fuming that Nacional escaped red cards in the Copa Libertadores gameCredit: FOX Sports via X formerly TwitterNacional kept all their players on the pitch before sealing a 2-2 comebackCredit: FOX Sports via X formerly TwitterUnlike in Europe, South American continental tournaments release VAR audio footage of key incidents after the match.And this was done by Conmebol for the Nacional vs River Plate incident (Portuguese with Spanish subtitles).The footage shows that Daronco felt that excessive force was used by Lozano in the two-footed tackle, but as the player got the ball it was only worthy of a yellow card.The official was then heard asking for the real-time rather than slow-motion footage of the brawl which saw Romero punch Diaz in the face.After being given the footage, he concluded that this incident was also only worthy of a yellow card.But despite recommending two potential red cards, there was also criticism of the VAR team.That’s because the referee was greeted with complete silence when he informed them that he was going to give two yellow cards, when normally the VAR team would be expected to respond.River fans were not happy at all, especially as the lack of serious action eventually led to Nacional rescuing a draw.One said: “A shame due to the refereeing errors.”Another declared: “That’s a red card.”READ MORE SUN STORIESOne noted: “The tackle and the punch were red, these errors cannot just remain like this.”Another added: “Everything is against us, they robbed us with VAR showing everything.” More

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      VAR ruins football & must be ditched, says 1966 World Cup hero Sir Geoff Hurst – so would it have ruled out THAT goal?

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      VAR is ruining football and must go, according to Sir Geoff Hurst, scorer of the most controversial goal in history. But England’s 1966 World Cup hat-trick hero says goal-line technology, which may have ruled out his second strike, should stay.Sir Geoff Hurst’s hat-trick secured England the 1966 World CupCredit: ColorsportSir Geoff says goal-line technology, which may have ruled out his second strike, should stayHowever he thinks VAR is ruining football and called it a ‘joke’Credit: ITNThe 82-year-old insisted he is a fan of modern tech but called VAR a “joke” that delays the game and stops fans from properly celebrating a goal.He said: “They are making more bad decisions now and you don’t want to see people take ages to make a decision. “It’s ruining the spectacle, and the fans can’t cheer.“It’s actually spoiling the game.”read more on footballDebate still rages over whether Sir Geoff’s second goal against West Germany in the 1966 World Cup Final at Wembley did actually cross the line.And 44 years later he was in South Africa to witness Frank Lampard’s 2010 World Cup goal against the Germans being famously ruled out, despite being well over the line.Sir Geoff recalled: “I was the opposite side to the linesman and I could see the ball bounce halfway between the goal-line and the back of the net.“That was the most disgraceful decision we’ve seen in football and then they introduced goal-line technology.”Most read in FootballHe predicts big things for Gareth Southgate’s boys at the Euros next month — especially Jude Bellingham.He said: “The bunch of young players are the best we’ve had since 1966. England legend Sir Geoff Hurst reveals his damning thoughts on VAR“We’ve got quality players in all positions and his biggest issue is he can only pick 11 of them.“If you have to pick one player out, I would say Jude Bellingham.“He is doing astonishingly well for a 20-year-old. “He is in the same category as people like George Best and Bobby Charlton.”Sir Geoff revealed he uses his iPad to watch Match of the Day on BBC iPlayer — but skips the post-match analysis.He said: “I think they spend too much time on punditry, which is just one person’s opinion. “There are some awful commentators who don’t know what to say and so they just waffle on.”The football legend — the last survivor from the 1966 triumph — is now encouraging other older folk to learn digital skills to improve their quality of life.Sir Geoff, who teamed up with BT and AbilityNet, said: “I do internet banking and use the Trainline app to buy tickets. “I use technology to keep up with family, to send photos and we have a WhatsApp group called Family Bantz.READ MORE SUN STORIES“But if I’ve got an issue with something, I go to my children or grand-children — it’s as simple as that.“And if I get something that could be a scam I bin it.” More

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      Watch ‘worst sending off EVER’ as commentator is left stunned and player is humiliated after VAR review

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      REFEREE Ruddy Buquet astonished fans, players and commentators alike as he bafflingly sent Metz star Georges Mikautadze off last night.The Ligue 1 relegation strugglers were in action against Rennes at Stade Saint-Symphorien.Arnaud Kalimuendo collided with Georges MikautadzeCredit: X / @FOOTBALLONTNTThe forward threw himself to the turfCredit: X / @FOOTBALLONTNTMikautadze, 23, was sent off by referee Ruddy BuguetCredit: AFPThe striker waited in the tunnel to learn his fateCredit: X / @FOOTBALLONTNTAs he thought he would be allowed back on, the Georgian was stoppedCredit: X / @FOOTBALLONTNTMetz trailed 3-2 in the closing stages, after Arnaud Kalimuendo’s 93rd minute goal for the visitors.Things then went from bad to worse for Laszlo Boloni’s side, as talisman Mikautadze was shown a straight red card in the 96th minute.Replays clearly showed that the Georgian and Kalimendo had innocuously bumped into each other, with the latter going down theatrically.Mikautadze made his way down the tunnel, only for VAR to instruct Buquet to take another look on the pitchside monitor.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe 47-year-old was then shown the incident a number of times, with an expectation that common sense would prevail and the decision would be overturned.Mikautadze, 23, clearly expected to be allowed to return, and attempted to make his way back onto the pitch.Incredibly he was stopped by the fourth official, with Buquet doubling down and sticking to his baffling decision.Metz went on to lose the crucial match 3-2 to leave them 16th, in Ligue 1’s relegation play-off zone, and just three points above the automatic drop.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSMikautadze had scored earlier in the matchCredit: AFPMikautadze’s controversial red card will now see him ruled out for Metz’s pivotal last two matches, if it is not overturned by the LFP.Boloni, who gave Cristiano Ronaldo his senior debut for Sporting Lisbon more than 20 years ago, will take his team to Strasbourg next time out, before finishing their campaign by hosting Paris Saint-Germain.Fuming Kylian Mbappe’s incredible reaction to being subbed by PSG in Marseille victoryMetz’s veteran boss, 71, was furious with the officiating after the match.His side had twice led through goals by Mikautadze and Papa Amadou Diallo, before being pegged back by an Amine Gouiri effort and a penalty by Benjamin Bourigeaud.I don’t know whether to scream, cry, laugh…Laszlo BoloniOn the referee’s performance, Boloni blasted: “The penalty almost completely changes the course of the match.”The icing on the cake is the expulsion of Mikautadze. I don’t know whether to scream, cry, laugh… I can’t comment. It’s incommentable. No comment.”I only ask myself one question. Am I really ready to talk to really tell you what I feel?”Because if I do that, I live not far away, I immediately buy a ticket to go to the disciplinary committee and they will be right, because there is always a sentence or a word of interpretation by which some are more equal than equals, wiser than the wise, have more rights than… there you go.”The TNT Sports commentator in the UK was also stunned.As the incident was being checked, he said: “Kalimuendo if anything deserves a yellow card for that.”Let’s hope the call is right. Let’s hope he gets called back in and scores a late goal! He just stood there.”‘VAR has broken match officials’ minds’Fans watching on at home were left scratching their heads.One wrote on social media: “VAR has broken match officials’ minds.”While a second blasted: “That’s the worst sending off I’ve ever seen.”A third claimed: “Referee shouldn’t referee again if he thinks that is a red card.”And another added: “Seems like VAR is broken all over Europe..”Mikautadze scored 23 goals as Metz were promoted from Ligue 2 last season.He subsequently signed for Ajax in a deal worth around £14million.After failing to make an impact in Amsterdam amid Ajax’s shambolic season, Mikautadze returned to Metz on loan in January.READ MORE SUN STORIESHis comeback has been a roaring success, with the forward having notched 12 goals in 18 Ligue 1 appearances.Should the LFP fail to overturn his red card, however, his stint back at Metz will be over. More

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      Piers Morgan and Ian Wright say Arsenal ‘got away with it’ as VAR slammed for controversial decisions vs Bournemouth

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      ARSENAL legend Ian Wright and Gooner Piers Morgan both admitted they “got away with it” against Bournemouth as VAR dominated again.The Gunners restored their four-point lead at the top of the Premier League with a 3-0 victory.Bournemouth had a goal ruled out due to Dominic Solanke’s challenge on David RayaCredit: GettyIt was eventually ruled out after a lengthy VAR checkCredit: TNT SportsFans were fuming over the decision to give Arsenal a penalty after this foul on HavertzCredit: GettyIan Wright claims that he felt it was never a penaltyCredit: GettyBukayo Saka, Leandro Trossard and Declan Rice all got on the scoresheet to pile the pressure on second-placed Man City ahead of their clash with Wolves.However, the main talking point after the lunchtime game at the Emirates was the much-maligned VAR.And it has led to more calls for the technology to be scrapped.Both teams were on the receiving end of controversial decisions during the game as Cherries ace Ryan Christie escaped a red card for a high tackle while his side also had a goal ruled out in the second half.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLSaka and Trossard had already fired Arsenal into a two-goal lead when Antoine Semenyo looked to have got the visitors back into it after bundling home the rebound after Christie’s effort hit the woodwork.But the celebrations were soon cut short as Dominic Solanke was ruled to have fouled goalkeeper David Raya by backing into him during the build-up upon a VAR check.Solanke moved into Raya’s path as the loose ball dropped back into the area as the stopper weakly tried to punch it away, with the ref blowing despite contact being minimal.Bournemouth boss Andoni Iraola and his coaching staff were furious after watching a replay but, after a lengthy delay of several minutes, the officials at Stockley Park did not advise the ref to check his pitchside monitor.Most read in FootballI played with Ian Wright at Arsenal for six years… he used to go ballistic and fight rival players in changing rooms-That was after the away side believed they should have received a penalty moments earlier when Philip Billing was pulled back by William Saliba.However, VAR failed to intervene this time, placing the team working on the technology under more scrutiny.And it even led to TalkTV host and Arsenal fan Piers calling for it to be axed completely.He wrote on X: “VAR is so bad that even when Arsenal get a verdict our way (like just now), I still hate the bloody thing for the way it sucks all the joy out of the game.”Meanwhile, former Gunners striker Wright admitted VAR had robbed Bournemouth.He wrote: “Didn’t think it was a penalty. Bournemouth’s goal should have stood.”Wright was referring to Kai Havertz being brought down by Bournemouth goalkeeper Mark Travers which led to Saka scoring from the penalty spot.Arsenal fan Piers Morgan called for VAR to be axedCredit: ReutersFans were fuming that “Havertz knew what he was doing” by dangling out a leg to initiate contact.And other supporters were raging as well after the full-time whistle over the incidents.“I’ve had enough of VAR,” blasted one fed-up viewer.A Gooner wrote: “That’s a goal all day, I have to be honest.“VAR a shambles for all involved, just have to hope it’s not your team each week.”READ MORE SUN STORIESWhile a third added: “Premier League implementation of VAR is baffling. VAR isn’t supposed to re-referee games.“It’s simply supposed to tell the ref if and when he’s made a clear and obvious mistake. That’s how it works in other leagues anyway.”Meet the Arsenal Wags from Strictly star to a flight attendant
      Tomali Benson – partner of Bukayo Saka
      Benson and Saka have kept information on their relationship largely quiet.
      They do not appear on each others Instagram pages but she was seen speaking to Saka at the 2022 World Cup.
      Helene Spilling – partner of Martin Odegaard
      A professional dancer from Norway who rose to fame in the country’s version of Strictly Come Dancing, the pair were first spotted together at the Football Awards in March 2023.
      Sophie Weber – partner of Kai Havertz
      Weber works as a model and social media influencer and is the most high profile member of the group on online with almost 400,000 followers on Instagram.
      They are childhood sweethearts having grown up in the same neighbourhood.
      Milly White – partner of Ben White
      The couple got engaged in 2022 before tying the knot officially in May last year. They have matching “I love you tattoos” on their wrists. Milly White works as a model.
      Laura Trossard Hilven – partner of Leandro Trossard
      The pair met in 2014 before getting married in 2019.
      They have two sons together, Thiago and Amadeo.
      Lauren Fryer – partner of Declan Rice
      Lauren Fryer and Declan Rice have been together since 2015. She tends to keep a lower profile compared to some of Arsenal’s other Wags but is no less stunning.
      She sadly deleted all pictures on her Instagram after suffering horrific abuse by vile trolls.
      Georgina Ramsdale – partner of Aaron Ramsdale
      Georgina Ramsdale works as a flight attendant.
      The couple got married last June after the Arsenal star proposed in 2022. They originally met in 2019. More

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      Mark Clattenburg QUITS Nottingham Forest role after club’s explosive row with referees over VAR

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      MARK CLATTENBURG has quit his role as a refereeing consultant at Nottingham Forest.The former Premier League referee, who only took up the position in February, was employed to help the club better understand VAR and refereeing decisions.Mark Clattenburg has left his role as a refereeing consultant at Nottingham ForestCredit: PAThe Daily Mail have revealed that Clattenburg has called time on his association with the club in a statement online – just over a week after Gary Neville told the ex-ref that he MUST resign.It read: “This is to announce that I will no longer be providing match analysis services to Nottingham Forest Football Club. “Since February this year, I have been proud to have done so under a consultancy agreement between NFFC and Referee Consultant Ltd.”I performed my services under the consultancy agreement in good faith, to the best of my abilities and in the hope of using my extensive experience as a match official to help NFFC understand how decisions in relation to key match incidents are made amid the workings of VAR.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”However, it is now clear that the existence and performance of these consultancy services has caused unintended friction between NFFC and other participants, to the extent that it has become more of a hindrance than help to NFFC.”It has also led to the unmerited targeting of me, personally, by certain participants and pundits. “Such reactions and outcome was not expected and is regrettable, as it is my sincere belief that there is a place for and value in such a role in the modern game.”I am grateful to NFFC and wish them all the best during the remainder of the season and in the future. It’s been an honour.”Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSClattenburg came under fire quickly after taking up the role with Forest when the club released a statement following a 2-0 defeat at the hands of Everton.The club’s official X account fumed about three penalty decisions that went against Nuno Espirito Santo’s side during the game and flagged that the VAR for the fixture, Stuart Attwell, is a Luton fan.Former Premier League referee’s new job leaves fans baffled after BBC cameras spot him at FA Cup clash Their post read: “Three extremely poor decisions – three penalties not given – which we simply cannot accept.”We warned the PGMOL that the VAR is a Luton fan before the game but they didn’t change him. Our patience has been tested multiple times. NFFC will now consider its options.”Clattenburg was targeted by fans and pundits alike after the statement was released as a result of his ties to the club.Gary Neville even spoke out on Sky Sports claiming that Clattenburg should resign after the “embarrassing” statement.The Manchester United legend said: “Mark Clattenberg must resign tonight.”If he saw those words go out in which question the integrity of a referee and claims someone is a cheat for supporting another club, then he’s supporting what is being said.READ MORE SUN STORIES“He would lose all credibility with referees in the game. He should stand down tonight and distance himself from that statement.”The statement is like a petulant child. It’s embarrassing.”Forest felt they should have had three penalties against EvertonCredit: ReutersThe players were fuming about the refereeing decisionsCredit: GettyGary Neville called for Clattenburg to resign after Nottingham Forest released their controversial statementCredit: Sky Sports More

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      I played with David Beckham for my club and against him at the World Cup, now I’m making my way in brand new career

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      CHRIS BIRCHALL was David Beckham’s team-mate at LA Galaxy and faced England at the 2006 World Cup.But now he has traded the high life of LA and glitz and glamour of international football for pounding the Staffordshire mud as a REFEREE.Chris Birchall is on red alert for a career as a whistlerCredit: Paul TongeBirchall says England legend David Beckham was humble both as an international opponent and club team-mateCredit: GettyBirchall and Becks won the MLS Cup with LA Galaxy in 2011Credit: News Group Newspapers LtdChris Birchall with a framed David Beckham personalised signed shirtThe  ex-midfielder, 39, lined up against the likes of Wayne Rooney, Steven Gerrard, Frank Lampard and Becks while playing for Trinidad & Tobago in Germany.Stafford-born Birchall, who qualified for the Caribbean islands through his mum, spent three seasons in LA.Hanging on a wall at home in Newcastle-under-Lyme is a personalised signed Beckham shirt and a photo of the pair when they won the MLS Cup in 2011.He said: “David was great with me. Although I played with him towards the end of his career, wow what a player. He could pick you out with a pass from 40 yards.READ MORE TOP STORIES“There was banter between us as English guys. He’d come into training every morning and say to me, ‘Hi, Mr Perfect’ and I was like, ‘If anyone should be called that it’s you!’“He sends video messages when it’s my lad’s birthday and I’ll text him when any big news happens. He’s humble and the type of person you want to be associated with.”Trinidad & Tobago — the Soca Warriors —  elevated Birchall’s career. While still a 22-year-old League One footballer at Port Vale, he found himself up against the Three Lions.England needed two late goals to win 2-0 in the group game before their World Cup quarter-final exit to Portugal. Most read in FootballThe ex-Trinidad & Tobago ace reckons VAR has big weaknessesCredit: Paul TongeCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSBirchall said: “My biggest memory was Beckham shaking my hand at the end and telling me, ‘You had one hell of a game’. He was my hero so that was special.“It’s amazing looking back — lining up against Beckham, Scholes, Owen, Rooney, Ferdinand.  That squad should have won a World Cup.” Watch former Bohemians star score from own half with shot to rival David Beckham’s iconic goalBirchall — who also played for  Coventry, Port Vale and Brighton before retiring in 2016 — started the process of becoming an official six months ago.He said: “I’d love to ref in the EFL. The hardest things are positioning  yourself and making split-second decisions.”Birchall would like other former players to lend their experience to help the PGMOL stop the controversies ruining football.He said: “The way certain laws are written tie the hands of refs. There’s no room for common sense.“If an incident ticks all the boxes, you must give a certain decision. Yet if you’ve played you know every incident is different and whether a player meant to do something.He sends video messages when it’s my lad’s birthday and I’ll text him when any big news happens. He’s humble and the type of person you want to be associated with.Chris Birchall on David Beckham“Take handball — a ball’s blasted at you from ten yards. You might be jumping with your arms slightly away from your body and as you’re landing the ball touches your hand. That isn’t a penalty but they’re given.“The diving and simulation is ridiculous. That’s where I’d like to use my experience. Ex-footballers can see the tricks of the trade.“I’ve sympathy for a ref who has a split second to make a decision and then has VAR putting him under pressure to change it after viewing a replay at one thousandth of a second. The game isn’t played in slo-mo.”Birchall saw his ex-club Coventry denied what would have been an incredible win against Manchester United in the FA Cup semi-final.Victor Torp thought he had scored a 120th-minute winner to complete a fightback from 3-0 down. Ref Rob Jones gave the goal but VAR told him Haji Wright was a CENTIMETRE offside!Birchall took on Frank Lampard & Co in the 2006 World CupCredit: GettyHe rose to a momentous occasion against the Three Lions 18 years agoCredit: GettyBirchall said: “This is where VAR kills football. That decision affected a club’s history as Coventry would’ve reached the final having staged one of the greatest ever comebacks.“VAR wasn’t brought in to decide offside by a toenail or to take three minutes to work out.“If it’s level to the naked eye, award the goal — give the advantage to the striker as it used to be. We want to see goals, not find reasons to disallow them.”PGMOL chief Howard Webb wants to welcome ex-players into refereeing and Birchall hopes to see his peers and officials work together.He said: “I don’t want a battle between ex-footballers and refs. It’s about educating refs from a player’s perspective and the other way round.“Paul Merson slates refs on Soccer Saturday — some stuff he’s saying as an ex-player is correct. But it’s often not the ref’s fault, it’s the law that’s written that needs changing.”The high life of LA has gone, now it’s back to earthy EnglandCredit: Paul TongeBirchall gives our man Justin Allen more than just the lowdownCredit: Paul TongeBirchall concedes you cannot make a living refereeing at grassroots level and that perhaps puts ex-players off, especially those who played professionally in the lower divisions and are not wealthy.However, he believes the PGMOL should team up with the PFA, FA and clubs to encourage footballers still playing to take courses.He said: “Unless you’ve made good money from your career, you need a job while you’re developing to reach a level where you might get an income.READ MORE SUN STORIES“They need to be telling footballers towards the end of their careers, ‘You can do this while you’re still playing.’“There needs to be that transition from when they retire to going straight into refereeing or at least have a platform.” More