Since its debut nearly two years ago, VAR has become the source of endless frustration for Celtic supporters, serving more as a catalyst for controversy than as a solution to purported ‘honest mistakes’ in refereeing. From unclear offside rulings to inconsistent interpretations of dangerous play leading to red cards, the technology has stirred heated debates among fans and pundits alike.

Among the myriad issues plaguing Celtic, the vexing handball rule stands out as a particularly sore point exacerbated by the introduction of video assistant referees in October 2022. Michael Stewart, expressing exasperation, has urged Willie Collum, the new SFA Head of Referees, to prioritize rectifying this contentious rule above all other concerns in Scottish football.

Stewart’s firm directive to Collum underscores the palpable frustration felt by Celtic fans, emphasizing the imperative of addressing the handball rule as a pivotal step towards restoring order in the game. By focusing on resolving the ambiguity surrounding handball interpretations, Collum stands to alleviate mounting pressure and foster a conducive environment for addressing other refereeing challenges.

Celtic’s encounters with VAR have been marred by questionable decisions, such as the denial of a penalty at Tynecastle and contentious handball calls against players like Matt O’Riley and Alexandro Bernabei. These incidents, coupled with similar controversial penalties awarded against Celtic, reflect the need for swift action to rectify the flaws in VAR implementation.

Should Collum succeed in rectifying the inconsistencies surrounding the handball law, it could mark a pivotal turning point in enhancing relations between Celtic, match officials, and the wider Scottish football community. By addressing this fundamental issue, the path may be paved for a more harmonious and fair application of VAR, fostering trust and credibility in the game.