Burnley’s Kompany not seeing “common sense” being applied in this season’s EPL refereeing

Manager of Burnley, Vincent Kompany, has voiced his concern on Monday regarding the declining quality of refereeing in the current Premier League season.

He added his voice to the widespread criticism of officiating following several contentious decisions.

During Saturday’s match against Chelsea, Kompany’s team found themselves down to 10 players. The former Belgium defender himself received a red card for objecting to a disputed penalty decision.

Despite being in a precarious position near the relegation zone, sitting 19th in the table with only eight games remaining, Burnley managed to secure a 2-2 draw against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge.

“The frustration comes from that it’s a succession of mistakes and it is always debatable,” Kompany said in a news conference.

“The effect is on points and on our season; I suppose all of that kind of gives you a feeling of being more angry, but when the next moment comes, I have to do my best [to not react]. I hope it doesn’t happen again this season.
“I keep saying what I think: I won’t shy away from it. I have said it to the officials that the refereeing has not been good enough this season. I have said that in a constructive way.

“Last year I said English refereeing was the best in the world; I felt there was always common sense being applied — this year I have not felt like this.”

Vincent Kompany, the former Manchester City captain, mentioned that he has apologised to the officials following the Chelsea game.

Next up, Burnley will host Wolverhampton Wanderers, who are currently in the 10th position, on Tuesday.

“All we’re asking is to have an opportunity, so if between now and the end of the season we have one opportunity, that’s enough for us,” Kompany said.

“We will just fight and work as hard as anyone to get that opportunity, but the next eight games don’t define the club.”