Livingston boss David Martindale backs VAR introduction but admits cost concern

Livingston manager David Martindale admits the introduction of VAR can only be a good thing for Scottish football – but confessed he’s worried the costs will impact his budget.

SPFL clubs voted 41-1 in favour of VAR being used in Premiership games with the system set to be introduced after the 2022 World Cup, which concludes in December.

The Lions boss has often spoken about the need for VAR but despite being largely in favour of the move, Martindale told the Courier he’s concerned the roughly £80,000 cost for the club will have a direct impact on his playing squad – and is wary of future costs as well.

He commented: “I think the way it’s going to get paid for is fair and reasonable. It’s going to be paid with the money you get from the league placing the previous year on a sliding scale which I think is the most fair way of doing it.

“I’m happy but also worried to be honest. I’m delighted we’ve got it but not overly happy with the cost. It might well be coming out of my budget because it’s going to be around £80,000 that we hadn’t planned for.

“It might not do – we’ve not had that conversation yet – but that’s my concern about it.”

He added: “I’m also worried about the ongoing costs. Is this something that’s going to cost the club a lot of money long-term?

“I’d assume not once you have the initial implementation cost but we won’t know until we start using it, I’d imagine.

“I think we need it and I think the referees need as much help as they can get so on that front, it’s a good thing.

“It’s not going to ensure every decision is correct but if you get more correct than you do now then it’s good for the game.”

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