Football FanCast columnist Billy Pearson feels it is time that referees were given greater respect on the football pitch and believes that the captain should be the only one allowed to talk with officials.

If you ever wanted to be in a position where you are hated by around 30,000 people in one sitting then become a Premier League referee. It is the most thankless of tasks and in all honesty isn't helped by the scrutiny of cameras and the open criticisms of managers and players of them within the media.

Billy Nicholson once confronted an unhappy Alan Mullery who decided to vent his anger towards the referee and the reason for the side's failings. The Spurs manager conceded the referee may have made a mistake but told the player that he had made three times as many so he should keep his trap shut. Of course Billy Nick is right, I mean what purpose is there in bemoaning a ref's decision - it is not as if he is going to change his mind.

I personally have no great love for referees and don't buy into the claims that they are the best in Europe; however I do feel they should be shown far more respect from the players on the pitch. Steve Bennett showed Javier Mascherano a red card after receiving a verbal volley against Manchester United and for me that is the correct punishment. You wouldn't stand for anyone giving you that at your place of work so why should referees be any different.

Barnet football club made the unprecedented step of introducing the initiative that only the Captain is allowed to talk to the referee. Not only has it proved highly successful but the number of bookings the club has received has dropped as a result. It brings common sense back to the game and given respect that a referee deserves.

Should referees accept the abuse that is given out to them as part of the game? Is a red card the correct punishment for dissent? Would following Barnet's lead go a long way to restoring some order and respect within the game?

It is the debate "Should the team captain be the only one allowed to talk to the referee?" that will be discussed on the WKD Sports Shed show on Nuts TV, so submit your vote and comment and get your opinion seen by many.

HAVE YOUR SAY: