Concerned Bobby Madden has declared that referees in Scotland would welcome the added “transparency” of VAR audio being release.

And the former whistler has cited the controversial penalty award to Rangers last month against Livingston as a reason the information should be shared with the punters. After Ross McCausland went down under pressure from Livi goalkeeper Shamal George the man in the middle Steven McLean decided to award a penalty – with many feeling that there was not enough contact on the Ibrox youngster to justify his tumble in the box.

It led to many believing that the team in the VAR room had not checked the flashpoint – but former top ref Madden has insisted that the decision would have been checked. However, the team behind the video technology would have decided not to send McLean to the monitor. Speaking to The Daily Mail, Madden insists these are the incidents that should see the audio release – and that match officials want it out there amid rising concerns over the technology.

He said:: “Me being out and having the opportunity to speak is beneficial not just for the public but for the referees. I’m speaking from experience and an understanding of protocol and the laws of the game.

“But I do genuinely think the SFA should take the opportunity to share their opinions weekly. I just don’t know if we are any closer to that happening. Now, with VAR and having the audio, it’s a real opportunity. I think the match officials would welcome it. They are mature and brave enough to hold up their hands to a mistake. Whether they would want to share audio or not, I’m not sure.

“But for the sake of transparency it’s the only way people will have a full understanding of how a decision was arrived upon. And it’s about education. Not criticising officials. Referees will make mistakes, I know that better than anyone.

“‘The decision to give Rangers a penalty kick at Livingston is a recent example. For me, quite clearly, that was simulation. People have said they can’t believe it wasn’t checked. But it would have been checked, they have just decided not to take it to an on-field review. That’s where the education helps. Let’s hear the audio and what was discussed.”

GET MORE NEWS HERE