Trial could see Scots referees give post-match interviews

Crawford Allan says referees could give interviews in future to explain the decisions they make during matches.

The experienced official, who is chairman of the Scottish Senior Football Referees Association, admits they are keeping a close eye on a similar trial in Australian’s A-League, where referees are permitted to conduct post-match interviews with the media.

Allan says that could pave the way for Scottish football to adopt a similar approach.

Allan said: “It’s an interesting one. The Australian A-League are trialling in very strict situations and it’s only – I think – penalties or major decisions the referees are offering up about an hour after the game the opportunity to be spoken to. I am aware it is something they are looking at and we will watch with interest and see what happens.

“We’re not there, in terms of anything like that. But we are aware of things like that happening around in the world, and, through congress and our working groups, it is something we are always open to look at. Perhaps in the future, and perhaps only for certain decisions.

“At the end of the day we just want the best for football.”