Lampard Wants Pitch-Side Monitors Introduced To Improve VAR

Unlike in other European leagues where officials have the luxury of a touchline monitor, Premier League referees communicate with officials in the VAR control room to conclude on debatable calls before arriving at a decision.

VAR came under intense scrutiny in the Premier League last weekend with certain key decisions called into question.

Arsenal had a late goal ruled out for a foul in the build-up in their home game against Crystal Palace while Everton had a penalty awarded against them against Brighton and Hove Albion.

Manchester United were awarded a questionable penalty against Norwich City and Chelsea’s Callum Hudson-Odoi was booked for diving after VAR intervened to overturn a penalty for Chelsea against Burnley.

Lampard believes it is imperative for referees to have the benefit of a pitch-side monitor in order to make certain key decisions for themselves.

"Yes, I think it is part of VAR. I assumed when it came into the Premier League that would be the case," he told a news conference ahead of Chelsea's EFL Cup clash with Manchester United.

"I think we are at the point now where from my point of view I think they have to. It is difficult. I am not one to bang the drum.

"It is not easy and even with VAR there is a human element involved because they are the ones that are checking it and it is slightly opinionated.

"I think at the weekend we saw it flip slightly from the other way from what it had been already with some decisions being changed. Hopefully we find the right middle ground as soon as possible.

"I think seeing the monitor on the side of the pitch is the way forward."