Everton manager Sean Dyche has called for a significant overhaul of the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system following a series of contentious decisions against his side. Dyche, who remains a supporter of technology in football, expressed frustration over the inconsistency and implementation of VAR, particularly after Dominic Calvert-Lewin's red card in the FA Cup clash with Crystal Palace.
Dyche argued that VAR checks often focus on finding contact rather than assessing whether the contact constitutes a foul. He highlighted the Calvert-Lewin incident, where referee Chris Kavanagh initially saw no foul, but VAR intervened to upgrade the decision to a red card. Dyche questioned the process, noting that still images can make tackles look worse than they are in the context of the full movement.
The Everton boss also criticised the lack of parity in VAR reviews. He pointed to a penalty appeal for Beto, who was held by a defender in the box, which was not reviewed with the same rigour as the Calvert-Lewin red card. Dyche predicted that officials would argue the hold was not long enough, despite clear evidence in slow motion.
Dyche's broader concern is that VAR is being used to referee games rather than correct clear and obvious errors. He noted that referees rarely stick with their original decision once VAR suggests a review, undermining their authority. This was evident in Calvert-Lewin's disallowed goal at Tottenham, where the on-field officials saw no issue but VAR overruled them.
Dyche concluded by saying that while he remains a fan of VAR, his patience is being tested. He urged for a tidying up of the system, which he believes has stepped back in recent months. The manager hopes that Everton will soon benefit from more consistent and fair use of technology.
