Wenger calls for video technology

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has called on football officials to introduce video technology into the game.

Wenger believes it is time football embraces the assistance video replays would provide for referees, as has been done in cricket, tennis and rugby league.

“We need to assess the global situation and I think all of the football authorities need to sit together and see how we can improve it,” Wenger said.

“It’s time for us to help the referees and all be united and have a less conservative approach. And opt for video because video will help the referees.

It will not question their authority, it will give them more credit, more authority and less mistakes.

“(Video replays) would not stop the game. Sometimes it will give an even more flow to the game. Why? Because if I’m a linesman and an offside situation is a 50/50, I’m tempted to stop the game.

“If I know I have a video behind me, I’m tempted to let it go if I’m convinced it’s a real 50/50. You could improve the flow of the game and then check after.

“That for me wouldn’t stop the game because the referees talk to players sometimes to say next time I’ll have to punish you; that stops the game.

“Goalkeepers who take 30 seconds or a minute sometimes to take a goal kick … that stops the game.

“We have to accept that we have the most conservative approach compared to any other sport. It can be a strength. But on the refereeing side, I think it’s a weakness.”

Wenger’s men sit five points clear in third place on the English Premier League table.

They may be able to extend that advantage further when they host Wigan Athletic at the Emirates Stadium on Monday.

Frenchman Wenger will not be taking Wigan lightly though, with Roberto Martinez’s men fresh off a 1-0 upset win over Manchester United on Wednesday.

“Any team that fights to not go down finds some momentum and they (Wigan) find it every year just before they are out of the league,” he said.

“Certainly they had injuries as well and they’ve now found a structure of a team who suits them better than before.

“I believe as well that these teams are in a better position when they play against a team where they have nothing to lose.”

“Because when you play not to go down you have a lot of pressure but when you play against Manchester United you can just play free of the pressure than if they play against a team of their own level. It makes them more dangerous.”