Twelve recently-retired Premier League stars sign up for fast-track scheme to become referees after Howard Webb plea

HOWARD WEBB is hoping to recruit a dozen ex-pros to a fast-track refereeing programme.

PGMOL boss Webb took 12 years to reach the Prem after starting his whistling career while serving with South Yorkshire Police.

PAHoward Webb is hoping to recruit 12 ex-pros to become refs[/caption]

RexReferees are under the microscope after a string of controversial decisions this season[/caption]

But the former World Cup Final ref hopes his new cohort of current and recently-retired players can help increase confidence in officials.

One regular complaint by players, managers and fans alike is that some referees “don’t know the game” and are officiating by the book rather than with a feel for a match situation.

And while Webb does not accept that is a fair criticism – with refs having to apply the Laws of the Game – the idea of getting ex-players into the middle would aid perceptions.

It is understood that around 12 players have expressed their interest in the idea so far after Webb opened the door over recent months.

A process which would allow them to short-cut the normal progression path is now being worked on by Webb and PGMOL.

The refs’ chief is also investigating new technology which could see “flag to flag” touchline cameras being added to the VAR armoury.

Rasmus Hojlund is still waiting for his first Prem goal for Manchester United after a strike against brighton was chalked off after the ball was adjudged to have gone out of play.

Last month, though, Newcastle’s winner against Arsenal was allowed to stand when the VAR cameras were unable to find conclusive evidence the ball was out before Joe Willock centred.

FREE BETS – BT BETTING OFFERS AND BONUSES NEW CUSTOMERS

Webb’s job before returning to England was with the MLS in the United States, where a trial of touchline cameras – to see if they can be deployed – is already ongoing.

It is likely that even with sensors the system would only work for balls on the ground, as there is no overhead place for “triangulation” technology to be installed.

Webb is interested in the outcome of the trial and earlier this month he told the latest edition of Match Officials: Mic’d Up: “We’re open minded to all technologies that make us more accurate and more efficient.

“We’re doing some testing behind the scenes and we’ll see how that goes.

“We’re also keeping a close eye on other competitions and we’ll take a decision in terms of the best way to go forward with that.”