Referees were given public speaking lessons ahead of the new season – and the arrival of explanations to the crowd at Premier League matches.
Daily Mail Sport understands a number of broadcasters have been brought in by refs’ body PGMOL to train officials on how to speak with clarity in high-pressure environments and in front of big audiences.
Refs will now make in-stadium announcements following VAR decisions aside from offsides, given there is little need for explanation in such instances.
The move is the latest from PGMOL, and another common-sense change under boss Howard Webb.
However, there has been an admission from those involved that while taking charge of a match in front of vast crowds is one thing, taking to the public address system to outline why decisions have been made is another.
To that end, experts in public speaking from the broadcast world have been brought in as part of the training and support given to referees. They are understood to have shared tips on dealing with pressure, which include remaining calm and delivering their message clearly.
Preparatory work has been taking for some time, including at training camps and inside stadiums of professional clubs, where match-related exercises have been carried out.
While no names have been mentioned, presenters and on-screen reporters have provided sessions on delivery. The focus is understood to have been on clear communication in a natural style, according to those with knowledge of the situations.
The explanations, which have already featured in the Carabao and FA Cups along with this year’s EFL play-off finals,
are one of a number of new arrivals for this season, which include only captains being able to speak to referees on big decisions, goalkeepers being penalised for holding the ball for more than eight seconds and an increased focus on holding.
