Top-class officials still missing a vital trick

The standard of refereeing during the first week of the Euros has been excellent, helped by a far more sensible deployment of VAR than we are forced to endure in the Premier League, but there have been a couple of illustrations of an issue that affects officiating throughout the game.

For reasons unknown, referees the world over appear to believe dangerous play can only occur if it involves the offender’s feet.

The greatest example of this was, of course, the despicable assault on Patrick Battiston by the fists of Toni Schumacher in the 1982 World Cup semi-final, but twice in this tournament players have hurt opponents with body parts other than their feet and escaped due punishment.

First, towards the end of England’s victory over Croatia, Jude Bellingham came off worst in a clash of skulls with Domagoj Vida, whose late headed challenge should have resulted in him being cautioned.

Then, in the closing stages of France’s pulsating win against Germany, Bleus defender Benjamin Pavard was knocked out for a few seconds after taking a bang on the head from a ridiculous challenge from Robin Gosens, who flew threw the air backside first in a reckless attempt to connect with a cross. Gosens should have been sent off.

So, too, should Antonio Rudiger for blatantly blocking Kevin De Bruyne with a shoulder to the Belgian’s face during the recent Champions League final, an offence that inflicted serious injuries but was punished with just a yellow card.

But that apart, the footballers rather than the arbiters are taking centre stage and long may that continue. And long may Uefa’s zero-tolerance of kit clashes continue as well.

It has been so refreshing to be able to enjoy games between teams that are wearing clearing contrasting strips, something that cannot be said for far too many Premier League games.

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