Nottingham Forest has confirmed that they have asked for the audio recording of the referee’s communication with VAR during their controversial loss to Everton.
They are furious after the officials denied them three penalties in the 2-0 loss. Referee Anthony Taylor rebuffed the calls during the game, and the decisions were approved by Stuart Attwell on VAR.
Nottingham Forest Demand Transparency: Calls for VAR Audio Release Gain Momentum
Nottingham Forest claimed that they had informed the Premier League that they wanted a change in VAR as they believed Attwell supports Luton Town. They stated the VAR official was ruling against them as they were in a relegation battle with his club.
Releasing a statement on X, formerly Twitter, the Premier League club posted:
“Nottingham Forest has today submitted a formal request to the PGMOL to release into the public domain the audio recordings between officials during yesterday’s match against Everton at Goodison Park. The club has requested this be shared for three key match incidents – Ashley Young’s challenge on Giovanni Reyna (24th minute), Ashley Young’s handball (44th minute) and Ashley Young’s challenge on Callum Hudson-Odoi (56th minute). We firmly advocate for the broader football community and supporters to have access to the audio and transcript for full transparency, ensuring the integrity of our sport is upheld.”
Premier League also released a statement that they were disappointed with Nottingham Forest’s comments on social media. They confirmed that The FA are investigating the comments and do not believe it was appropriate. They said:
“The Premier League was extremely disappointed to read the comments made by Nottingham Forest on social media yesterday, following its match against Everton. We note The FA has confirmed it will be investigating the club’s statement. It is never appropriate to improperly question the integrity of match officials, and the nature of these comments means the Premier League will also be investigating the matter in relation to the League’s Rules.”
Forest were quick to issue a reply and communicated via X that they stand by everything they said on social media. They added that they wanted the audio for transparency and to protect the game’s reputation.
Their statements have been widely backed by fans from around the world as many believe that the referees have shown clear bias in matches.
Liverpool also requested for the audio following their loss to Tottenham earlier this season. Luis Diaz had scored a goal for the Reds, but it was incorrectly ruled out due to a miscommunication.