FridayOL

Rangers midfielder Nicolas Raskin has delivered a blunt assessment of the current state of the Scottish Premiership, warning that a significant investment in Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology is crucial if the league is to be considered a serious contender on the European stage. Raskin's comments come amidst ongoing controversy and frustration surrounding VAR’s implementation in Scotland, with numerous incidents sparking debate and criticism from players, managers, and fans alike.

“I think it’s clear that VAR needs a serious upgrade,” Raskin stated. “The technology itself isn’t the problem, but the implementation and the people operating it need to be better. It’s costing teams points and affecting the integrity of the game. If we want to be taken seriously as a league, we need to invest in making VAR work properly.”

The Belgian international’s remarks echo the sentiments of many within Scottish football, who believe the current system is inconsistent, slow, and prone to errors. The lack of transparency in decision-making processes has also been a major source of complaint, with fans often left confused and frustrated by the explanations – or lack thereof – provided after controversial incidents.

Raskin’s perspective is particularly insightful, given his experience playing in the Belgian Pro League and now the Scottish Premiership. He has witnessed firsthand the difference in the quality of officiating and the sophistication of technological support available in other European leagues. “In Belgium, VAR is much more efficient and the decisions are quicker and clearer,” he explained. “Here, it often feels like we’re waiting an eternity for a decision, and sometimes the decision itself doesn’t make sense.”

The financial implications of upgrading VAR are undoubtedly significant, but Raskin argues that the long-term benefits far outweigh the costs. “It’s an investment in the future of Scottish football,” he insisted. “If we want to attract top players and managers, and if we want our teams to be competitive in Europe, we need to have a league that is perceived as fair and well-run. VAR is a crucial part of that.”

The Scottish Football Association (SFA) and the Scottish Professional Football League (SPFL) are under increasing pressure to address the concerns surrounding VAR. While some improvements have been made since its introduction, many believe that a more fundamental overhaul is necessary. Raskin’s warning serves as a timely reminder of the stakes involved – and the potential consequences of inaction. Failing to invest in better VAR technology risks not only damaging the reputation of the Scottish Premiership but also hindering the progress of Scottish football as a whole.

The debate surrounding VAR is likely to continue, but Raskin’s call for investment is clear and compelling. It's a message that resonates with fans who crave consistency, transparency, and fairness in their beloved game. The future of Scottish football may well depend on whether those in power are willing to listen.