Chelsea boss Hiddink pleads for video replay

Chelsea boss Guus Hiddink, still reeling from his team’s stormy Champions League exit, wants video technology introduced to help referees make the right call in contentious decisions.

Norwegian referee Tom Henning Ovrebo turned down several strong appeals for Chelsea penalties during the 1-1 draw with Barcelona at Stamford Bridge on Wednesday, a result which put the Spanish giants into the final.

“In other sports like rugby and American football they have the ability to use technology at vital moments,” said Hiddink.

“Everyone waits five seconds for the video referee before making a decision. It can be done only on key moments that make a difference to the outcome of the game otherwise it would stop the game too much.

“The video referee must have authority to overrule the first man in charge. It’s a fact that if technology had been in use we would be in the Champions League final now.

“It would help a lot what is a difficult job for the referee when they have to make crucial decisions. It’s up to UEFA whether they act.”