Motherwell star handed lengthy ban for VAR criticism after Celtic defeat

(Image: Andy Buchanan/Shutterstock)

Elliot Watt has been hit with a four-match ban after criticising a penalty decision given against his side versus Celtic

The midfielder called the May incident "the worst VAR decision in history." This followed Celtic's late win, with Kelechi Iheanacho scoring a penalty after a VAR review.

Sam Nicholson was judged to have handled the ball during a challenge, a decision that sparked debate in the aftermath

The Scottish Football Association (SFA) has now punished Watt for his comments and Motherwell for their social media criticism of the decision.

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The club posted footage of the incident, stating: "As the world of football mocks our game, we simply have to draw a line in the sand and shift the focus."

Both Watt and Motherwell were charged under SFA Disciplinary Rule 72, which prohibits criticism of match officials that implies "bias or incompetence" or "impinges on [their] character."

The SFA has confirmed its sanctions, with Watt’s four-match suspension effective immediately, and Motherwell fined £5,000.

Watt may not serve the full ban at Fir Park, however, with Turkish side Samsunspor pushing to sign the midfielder.