BBC Sport pundits Wayne Rooney and Alan Shearer expressed concerns that referees are “petrified” to make decisions without the “safety net of VAR.” This comment came after officials chose not to award a penalty for a potential handball by Lucas Digne during the FA Cup fourth-round match between Aston Villa and Newcastle. The incident highlights the ongoing debate over the reliance on video assistant referees in crucial game situations. Both pundits emphasize the impact of VAR on refereeing confidence and decision-making.
