Platini still opposed to technology

UEFA president Michel Platini has maintained his stance against goal-line technology, despite plans for it to be introduced next year.

The English Premier League intends to implement the new system for the 2013/14 season, following calls from the media, the public and those involved in football for referees to be aided electronically.

However, Platini remains unconvinced and argues is would be more beneficial to increase the number of referees instead.

“So what will we have for offside decisions?” he was quoted as saying by the London Evening Standard.

“A guy pushing the button on a television replay telling the referee? And, if is he from Arsenal and the goal is by Tottenham, what does he do?”

“My idea is to help referees by putting up more referees.

“You will never convince me on technology and I will not change at the age of 57. Technology assisting referee: I say, no.”

When asked whether extra officials can co-exist with new technology, the former France international added: “No, how can we put goal-line technology in every match?

“We will have to spend a lot of money. National associations will not do that. Fine, let England do it as a trial and see if it works.”