It is a complaint as old as time itself, something uttered by fans across the world with regularity, yet still feels pertinent: the standard of refereeing is in decline.
Complaining about referees is nothing new. The difference is, this time, there seems to be an admission from those in authority that there is a kernel of truth behind the moaning.
It may be hyperbolic to describe Premier League officiating as being in crisis. But the Professional Game Match Officials Board would not have hired its first chief refereeing officer if it was happy with the state of things.
