...By Lola Smith for TDPel Media.
The treatment of Premier League officials has been a hot topic recently, particularly after incidents such as Andy Robertson’s recent outburst.
Referees, linesmen, and VARs are often seen as the “bad guys” of the game, scrutinized for their every decision, especially since the introduction of video technology.
However, according to Premier League referee Robert Jones, being an official is a thankless and often deeply challenging job.
Jones admitted that when referees make mistakes, it can stick with them for days and weeks.
Despite this, they need to be robust and learn from their errors, moving on to their next game.
Jones revealed that he sometimes takes his mistakes home with him, but the Premier League provides support from sports psychologists and other resources to help officials work through their issues healthily.
Jones explained that the support of these professionals has helped him and his colleagues park their decisions, despite the deep impact they can have.
He also admitted that he is an overthinker, and the pressure of the job can make him moody at home.
Jones and his colleagues care about their work, and it is more than just a job to them.
Commentary:
The revelations made by Premier League referee Robert Jones provide a glimpse into the intense pressure and scrutiny faced by officials in the world of football.
Fans often see referees and linesmen as villains, and their mistakes are often the subject of heated debate and criticism.
However, Jones’s comments show that officials are human too, and their mistakes can have a significant impact on their mental health and well-being.
The Premier League’s provision of support from sports psychologists and other resources is a step in the right direction, acknowledging the psychological burden placed on officials and providing help to manage it.
Ultimately, it is important to remember that referees and other officials are an essential part of the game, and without them, the game could not function.
