Mark Clattenburg, the former Premier League referee, has issued a robust response to criticism from ex-Manchester United star Gary Neville.
The critique emerged after Nottingham Forest appointed Clattenburg to a unique referee analyst position, aiming to provide expert insights into controversial refereeing decisions during the current Premier League season.
Nottingham Forest Pioneer New Referee Analyst Position
In a pioneering move, Nottingham Forest has become the first Premier League club to introduce a referee analyst role, seeking expert input to analyze contentious officiating calls.
The decision comes in response to perceived unfair treatment by the PGMOL, with Forest expressing dissatisfaction with certain refereeing decisions, including instances involving Ivan Toney’s goal for Brentford and a controversial red card for Joe Worrall against Manchester United.
Clattenburg’s Defense Against Neville’s Critique
Mark Clattenburg, who shares a connection with Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis through prior involvement in advising the Greek Super League, defended his newly appointed role against Gary Neville’s disapproval.
Expressing disappointment with Neville’s remarks, Clattenburg highlighted that Sky Sports, Neville’s employer, also employs ex-referees to aid fans and viewers in understanding the Laws of the Game, emphasizing the similarity in Forest’s approach.
Neville’s Disapproval and Forest’s Response
Gary Neville, known for his critiques on refereeing in the English top-flight, voiced his disappointment regarding Nottingham Forest’s decision to hire Clattenburg.
Neville questioned the move, expressing his belief that employing an ex-referee to explain refereeing decisions is unnecessary.
He conveyed his skepticism on the effectiveness of such a strategy, suggesting that insights from a fan in the crowd could serve the same purpose.
Clattenburg’s Previous Advisory Role and Future Expectations
Mark Clattenburg, having previously advised the Greece Football Federation on refereeing matters in the Greek Super League, enters his new position at Nottingham Forest with the hope of providing clarity on controversial decisions that may go against the club.
The move, despite facing criticism, reflects Forest’s commitment to addressing concerns related to refereeing decisions by incorporating a seasoned referee’s perspective.
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