England striker Jamie Vardy's wife set for World Cup VAR role
Any England player who falls foul of VAR at the World Cup can expect plenty of criticism, none more so than Jamie Vardy.
That is because his wife, Rebekah, has been signed up by BetBright as their VAR expert for the duration of the tournament.
The Leicester striker’s partner has gone through intense training alongside former Premier League referee Mark Halsey and will be giving her view on the decisions as they happen, via the bookmakers’ social media feeds.
Halsey was impressed with Rebekah’s efforts too, after she reviewed some of the more contentious decisions in World Cup history.
READ MORE: Madrid fans want me to stay – Navas
READ MORE: Messi is best even without World Cup success – Rakitic
READ MORE: Deschamps defends France goalkeeper Lloris after errors
“Rebekah was fantastic, she took on all the information and tips and impressed me with how well she controlled the players on the pitch,” Halsey said.
“After reviewing some contentious decisions from previous tournaments, she used her knowledge to good effect and gave the correct call when tested.”
And Rebekah, who will be hoping she does not have to review any footage involving her husband out in Russia, is confident going forward.
“Growing up with my Dad shouting at the telly when a referee made a bad decision has definitely influenced me, I know when to voice my opinion!” she explained.
READ MORE: Manchester City move ‘opportunity of a lifetime’ for Jorginho
READ MORE: Mo Salah paraded by Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov
READ MORE: Watford seal £11.5m Deulofeu deal
“However, getting a crash course in VAR has given me some real expertise in calling out decisions in a split second.
“I know players and managers alike have vented their frustration at VAR before, especially following the England versus Italy friendly back in March, when a VAR-awarded penalty cost England a win with only five minutes left!
“Now, with my new-found knowledge on VAR, I know that during the World Cup, when I shout out my decision it will be the correct one!”