Timo Werner believes his goalscoring problems at Chelsea were worsened by VAR, but is encouraged by a change to the controversial offside rules.
Werner endured a slump in front of goal this term at Stamford Bridge after a big-money move from Bundesliga outfit RB Leipzig.
The German striker netted just 12 times in all competitions for the Blues and his consistent failure to find the net was a source of mockery for rival fans.
He missed a number of gilt-edged chances that have left many questioning the forward’s temperament and ability.
A number of tight VAR calls have also denied Werner from some efforts that he has finished.
But despite a lack of clinical edge, Werner still helped Chelsea win the Champions League in his first season and showed signs of improvement under new boss Thomas Tuchel.
However, Werner could benefit next season from a change in VAR rules that could help the offensive side.
The Premier League is set to use thicker lines when judging narrow offside calls in the next campaign.
Top-flight chiefs have made the decision after anger towards a number of marginal calls last season.
VAR came under fire last season after several attackers were left unlucky as their toe, armpit or heel was adjudged offside.
The thicker lines will offer attackers a bigger margin for error meaning there is likely to be less harsh penalisation.
Do you think the introduction of thicker lines will improve VAR next season? Have your say in the comments.
Werner felt the brunt of VAR last season and says the new rules should benefit him.
“I read that they want to make the VAR line thicker in England,” he said.
“That would be good for me because then I would have 5 more goals this season.
“Basically the VAR is fine. and I say that, although I suffered most of it.“
(Image: AFP via Getty Images)
As reported by The Times , thicker lines are already in operation in other UEFA competitions and the Dutch Eredivisie.
The new system will mean TV viewers will no longer be able to see lines being drawn, rather just the final result.
All 20 Premier League clubs agreed on the decision to introduce thicker lines during an annual meeting on Thursday.
Meanwhile, the sides were also informed of plans to introduce automated offside technology.
However, this technology is not likely to be ready for two years which is why thicker lines are temporarily being used.
A Premier League presentation to clubs in March said:
“The purpose is to identify improvements to the VAR system and form a common understanding of where a VAR interpretation is expected and how changes can be made to increase consistency in interpretation and decision-making.
“The results will inform the coaching and training of match officials during the close season and changes will take effect in season 2021-2022.”
