Michael Stewart's fiery reaction to Rangers' VAR claim and his surprising stance on Celtic's controversy have sparked debate among football enthusiasts. Stewart, known for his outspoken nature, couldn't contain his frustration when discussing the recent match between Rangers and Hearts at Tynecastle.
The incident in question involved Rangers winger Djeidi Gassama, who went down in the box after a coming together with Jamie McCart. Stewart, with a sense of indignation, argued that Gassama's reaction was more than just a natural consequence of high-speed football. He insisted that Gassama should have been yellow-carded for simulation, labeling the entire situation as "embarrassing."
"Oh my... are you actually having a laugh?" Stewart exclaimed. "He should have been yellow-carded!" His strong words reflect a common frustration among fans and pundits who believe that such dramatic falls in the box are often a sign of diving rather than genuine contact.
However, Stewart's perspective on the Rangers-Hearts match took an unexpected turn when he discussed the Celtic-Hibs controversy. In that game, Hibs were awarded an equaliser despite VAR reviews, as the ball appeared to hit Joe Newell's arm before he scored. Stewart, who is currently banned from Hampden by the SFA for his critical remarks on referees, surprisingly supported VAR's decision to uphold the goal.
"When you see the replay," Stewart explained, "you can see Joe Newell's white sleeve ruffling. There's clearly been some contact, but it's not a handball." He argued that the contact was minimal and that the decision to allow the goal stood was the right one, as the evidence was inconclusive.
Stewart's stance on VAR's role in the Celtic-Hibs match has caused a stir, as it goes against the grain of his previous criticism of refereeing decisions. His argument that the contact was not significant enough to overturn the goal decision highlights a delicate balance between maintaining the flow of the game and ensuring fair play.
In both incidents, Stewart's commentary reveals a deeper understanding of the complexities surrounding VAR and its implementation in football. His ability to provide a nuanced perspective, even in controversial situations, showcases his expertise and passion for the sport. As the debate over VAR's role continues, Stewart's insights will undoubtedly remain a significant part of the conversation.
