FIFA say no to extra officials
02 Dec 2009 - 16:07:41
FIFA has decided against introducing extra match officials to assist referees during next summer's World Cup Finals.
The game's global governing body had discussed the idea of using two extra goalline officials in South Africa following the furore surrounding Thierry Henry's handball.
The France captain set up a winning goal for his side in their play-off with the Republic of Ireland last month after controlling the ball with his hand.
But despite widespread suggestions that FIFA would permit the use of additional officials in the finals, president Sepp Blatter has revealed that a committee is now set to revisit the idea of implementing video technology instead.
An inquiry will discuss whether it is right to go down the route of adding extra officials or whether to finally permit the use of video technology.
"The committee was of the opinion that we are at a crossroads: where shall we go with refereeing in the future?" revealed Blatter.
"The game at the highest level is so tense that it is impossible for one referee and his assistants to see everything."
Meanwhile, Blatter has revealed that Henry will be investigated by FIFA's disciplinary committee.