(Reuters) – Everton manager Sean Dyche expressed his opposition to the introduction of sin bins in football, stating that he believes they are neither necessary nor desired in the sport. His comments come in response to the approval of trials of 10-minute sin bins at “higher levels” of football by the International Football Association Board (IFAB) during a recent meeting.
The trials were approved with the aim of improving player behavior and increasing respect for match officials. Additionally, a proposal for only the team captain to approach the referee in certain game situations was supported, as well as temporary dismissals for dissent and specific tactical offences.
Sin bins, which were first introduced to rugby union in 2001, have been tested at grassroots levels, but Dyche believes there is no need for them in professional football. “I don’t know why they don’t leave the game alone at times,” he told BBC Sport. “I don’t think it is needed. I don’t think it is wanted, personally, but fans might have a different view.”
He also raised concerns about the practical implementation of sin bins, questioning how they would be managed. “If a player goes off the pitch, how are you going to manage that? The health and safety? Is he warming up, or is he allowed to sit down? Does he have to stay sitting down? Does he get two minutes out of the 10 to warm up again?”
Referring to the potential introduction of a measure that would require referees to announce the final decision of VAR reviews, Dyche expressed his support for leaving referees to make their own decisions without external interference. “Leave referees alone,” he said. “I say take everything away, take the screen away, the noise away and let them get on with their job.”
It is a peculiar thing to consider, but if it is implemented, then that is the way it goes,” he added.
IFAB’s decision to support the trials of sin bins and other measures signifies a concerted effort to address issues related to player behavior and the use of technology in football. However, Dyche’s comments reflect the skepticism and concerns that some within the football community have regarding these proposed changes.
Overall, the debate surrounding the introduction of sin bins and other measures continues to generate discussion and differing views within the sport.
(Reporting by Pearl Josephine Nazare in Bengaluru; Editing by Peter Rutherford)
