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Sean Dyche rips into Premier League change after VAR controversy: "It's a waste!"

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The Premier League's recent move to have referees explain VAR decisions on the pitch has been slammed by Nottingham Forest manager Sean Dyche . The 54-year-old was speaking after his team won at Wolves , but only after a lengthy delay saw an early goal chalked off.

Igor Jesus scored the only goal of the game at Molineux, but the Brazilian had earlier seen an effort ruled out due to team-mate Dan Ndoye standing in an offside position in front of home goalkeeper Sam Johnstone . The check took more than five minutes to complete, and Dyche's feelings were clear after referee Tim Robinson prolonged the delay with his required on-field explanation.

"I just think it's a waste," said the manager, who felt the check took "miles too long". He added: "It's already taken forever. Just call it and get on with it. I really don't understand it.

"Maybe I'm wrong. Maybe fans want that but it just takes more time. I personally, I think referees have a hard job and I think they do a great job overall. Why put them under more pressure? You know, it's not natural for everyone to want to speak in front of 20, 40, 50, 60, 70,000 people.

"So why put that on their plate as well? Why not just let them officiate. I'm saying take it off them. Give them just a chance to officiate. Give them a chance to breathe and get their job done without layering up more and more and more on top."

Summer signing Jesus had scored five goals in cup competitions before the Wolves meeting, but his goal in the Black Country was his first in the Premier League . However, Dyche didn't feel relief was the right word to describe his response to the breakthrough.

"Not relief, they want rewards for their work and he worked hard and stayed strong," he told Match of the Day. "He kept his eye on the ball, brilliant cross in and he takes a couple of steps and it's brave. Tonight it was his night because it's a big win for us."

The result takes Forest four points clear of the relegation places, though West Ham can close the gap with a result at Manchester United on Thursday night. Things continue to look desperate for Wolves, though, with Rob Edwards' side stuck on just two points from 14 games.

"We lost the game in the first half, no intensity," said Edwards, who has lost his first three games in charge with no goals scored. "Didn't take risks, played too safe. It was almost like we were waiting to get beat and that hurts. Bit of a reaction in second half but not enough. Really disappointing night."

Sky has slashed the price of its Essential TV and Sky Sports bundle ahead of the 2025/26 season, saving members £192 and offering more than 1,400 live matches across the Premier League, EFL and more.

Premier LeagueNottingham ForestWolvesSean DycheIgor JesusDan NdoyeSam JohnstoneVAR