5: Former Premier League Referee Graham Scott Explains VAR, Pressure & The Truth Behind Officiating

This week on More Than A Name, hosts Max Whittle and Luke Young are joined by former Premier League referee Graham Scott, whose career includes almost 1,000 professional match appointments, over 100 Premier League games, and more than 100 VAR duties.
A former semi-pro goalkeeper and now Telegraph columnist, Graham brings a unique blend of practical refereeing experience and clear, analytical insight into the modern game.
In this wide-ranging conversation, Graham talks about how he entered the world of officiating, the hidden pressures fans never see, and how refereeing influences everyday life. He explains how long it actually takes to reach the Premier League, the extraordinary amount of performance reviews referees face, and offers a detailed breakdown of how VAR really works — its strengths, weaknesses, and what needs to improve.
Graham also reflects on players he clashed with, decisions he regrets, the importance of body language, and the mental demands of being constantly judged by players, fans and the media.
A fascinating, honest and eye-opening episode for anyone who loves football and wants to understand refereeing from the inside.
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