'Should be binned' - PGMOL insider fumes at inaccurate technology over Burnley 'injustice' vs Man United
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Credit: Premier League X / Imago
Harri Burton
Tue 2 September 2025 18:35, UK
Howard Webb and PGMOL must address the weaknesses of semi-automated offside after Burnley saw a goal chalked off, according to Keith Hackett.
The former PGMOL chief and ex-FIFA official exclusively told Football Insider that fans have every right to question the technology following the controversial decision against Man United on Saturday, 30 August.
Lyle Foster netted the Clarets’ equaliser in the 55th minute, and within four minutes, Bryan Mbeumo had retaken the lead for the Red Devils, and Foster had been denied a second for Burnley at Old Trafford.
Ruben Amorim was tipped to be sacked by Man United had they lost to the newly promoted side, but after a match-winning penalty from Bruno Fernandes, the Red Devils claimed all three points.
This article contains exclusive comments from ex-PGMOL chief, FIFA official and former professional referee Keith Hackett.
It was a spirited performance from the visitors, who are battling to stay in the Premier League this season, having come from behind twice to equalise, before suffering heartbreak in the seventh minute of added time.
Amad Diallo had his shirt pulled, but even the winger’s fall to the ground was controversial, with the decision to award a penalty to United being heavily discussed over the weekend.
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Of course, Fernandes took his opportunity to slam home the winner from the penalty spot, but it was far from convincing from the Red Devils, whose manager is hanging on by a thread.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the former referee said: “I’m quite clear that the semi-automated system has flaws.
The Premier League uses Puma balls, but the European system uses Adidas, which I believe is more accurate.
I think the fans have every right to be questioning that piece of equipment.
Do we want goals chalked off for a toenail offside?
“If anybody’s got an ounce of love for our sport, toenails should be binned as far as offside is concerned.
Let us make it very clear that it’s got to be absolutely nailed on in offside.