Ref cam – currently being trialled at selected Premier League matches – is to be used at the potentially explosive clash between Arsenal and Manchester City later this month, Inside Sport can reveal.
The top flight, in conjunction with refs’ body PGMOL, have been testing the system which sees referees wear a camera on their shirts, along with an ear-piece and a microphone.
And the Gunners clash with City, on 21 September, will be one the matches in which the unique view is offered to those watching on television.
Last season, City pair Kyle Walker and John Stones accused Arsenal of employing ‘dark arts’ as Arsenal attempted to see out a 2-1 lead at the Etihad Stadium with 10 men. Pep Guardiola also had his say in what became a time-wasting row, labelling his side ‘an honest team’ after they grabbed a 98th minute leveller.
Earlier in the game, Walker had complained to ref Michael Oliver in the tunnel following an earlier incident while Daily Mail Sport later revealed that teenager Myles Lewis-Skelly was booked for unsporting behaviour after he appeared to relay a message to goalkeeper David Reya.
Lewis-Skelly, a sub, was shown yellow after he trotted behind Raya's goal line while warming up in the 65th minute.
Oliver observed the 17-year-old communicating with Raya before the Arsenal goalkeeper fell to the floor and stopped proceedings. Manager Mikel Arteta, formerly of City, used the ensuing break in play to deliver a team talk to nine of his outfield players as they looked to keep City at bay.
Dapcmostz
7
but big question is when will Arsenal win EPL ? 😆🤫