More refs required to tackle penalty debate

Sergio Aguero scores a penalty for Manchester City against Everton (Action Images)

Exclusive

Yet again this weekend there was controversy over penalty kicks – over those that were awarded and those that were not.
In the main this season, the controversy seems to be surrounding holding offences as much as physical fouls. Players appear to be going to ground at the merest touch in the penalty box and it is making life difficult for both referees and fans.
To use an example from this past weekend of Premier League action, Everton's Romelu Lukaku was blatantly fouled by Matija Nastasic of Manchester City – who shoved him in the back – but a penalty was not given.
While in the same game City were given a penalty for the slightest of infringements in the penalty area.
In my view they were both penalties – but the frustration and confusion that abounds is clearly indicative of a wider inconsistency.
Firstly, players have to realise they cannot get away with even slight tugs in the box any more – that will see the amount of times players come together in the box down rapidly.
Secondly, it is clear that a referee cannot be everywhere at the same time and more sets of eyes should be brought in to help the situation.

continue.......

Unfortunately, as we have seen in European competition, having officials on the bye-line risk can risk them appearing redundant.
In the Champions League, spectators have got used to the sight of them doing very little.
But the benefit of having the extra assistant referees, if they were used properly, would bring a great advantage in the Premier League. 
The game is changing and the pace of top-flight play – coupled with the amount of antics that go in the box - means it is becoming increasingly difficult for the referee.
You have to accept there will be human error, but you also have to ensure there is a supportive and efficient structure that gives the officials the best possible chance of making a correct judgement.
As we have seen with goal-line technology, it would be easy to introduce a new system.
And the use of extra officials, I would argue, is something that would bring greater value to the league