Robbie Neilson reckons the introduction of VAR will reduce touchline aggro and help save managers from costly dug out bans.
The Hearts boss can’t wait for the technology to be rolled out this weekend with the Jambos’ home clash against Celtic becoming the first live televised game to use the system north of the border. Neilson was banned for three games last season after admitting a misconduct charge following his furious reaction to a tackle at Ibrox. But he reckons there will be no arguments over key decisions with the video refs in play.
Asked if it should help cut rammies on the sidelines and save managers from bans, Neilson said: “I think it will. In the Celtic-Leipzig game recently, Leipzig had two goals knocked off for offside. There were no arguments. VAR makes the decision. We all know that's the decision. It’s on or offside. If you get a linesman 40 yards away making a split-second decision, and it’s the wrong one, that’s when people get agitated and there’s a bit of aggro between them.
“Now we know it’s black and white. Once the decision is made, nobody is going to drive along the M8 to go and challenge it. The decision is made and that’s it.”
Neilson hasn’t spoken to his players about the introduction of the technology this week. But he insists they are as prepared as they can be.
The Tynecastle boss joked he might hunt for a Hibs TV stream tonight though to see how the big VAT debut goes at Easter Road.
He said: “Boys have been watching it on TV for the last two-three years. We all understand how it works and have just been waiting on this moment.
“We understand the intricacies of it - things will be played on until their conclusion and it will come back. It’s not like we are going into something blind.
“To be honest, any game is a good game to start it. I’ll maybe get it on Hibs TV on Friday! I’ll see if I can get a stream. I just think it’s great to get it in. It’s about time. We have been waiting for the last couple of years. Yes, there will be issues at the start. It’s only natural. But at least we are moving forward.
“Yes, it might take slightly longer. There might be difficulties with angles. But at least we are taking steps forward so we can get to that pureness of saying ‘yes’ or ‘no’.”
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