Coleman backs referees earpiece experiment

FULHAM boss Chris Coleman yesterday disagreed with Sam Allardyce’s claim that earpieces used by officials have little positive effect on the game.

Allardyce, the Bolton manager, disapproved of the trial of a new French system during Sunday’s 2-1 defeat at Craven Cottage.

The technology allowed referee Graham Poll to talk to his linesmen and the fourth official throughout the match, but Allardyce was unimpressed by the experiment.

“I can’t see an earpiece enhancing the game or enhancing the referee’s performance,” he said.

“But TV cameras and instant replays on major incidents are the way forward. We have got to get the cameras in first.”

Fulham, however, have been on the wrong end of some harsh refereeing decisions this season so Coleman is anxious to see officials given as much help as possible.

The former Welsh international said: “I saw Sam Allardyce was annoyed that the earpieces were being used. He was partly angry because he hadn’t been told the officials would have them,” he said.

“But I’m a great fan of them. I was watching the rugby at the weekend and saw them being used successfully then.

“If rugby can use them, then why not football too?

“At Fulham I have a television screen in the dug out and can call-up replays within eight seconds.

“If Fulham can afford something like that why can’t the Premiership?”