Nottingham Forest issue response to Premier League's statement in third post since Everton defeat

Nottingham Forest have released a third statement on social media in wake of their controversial defeat to Everton.

Forest released a statement on social media slamming the officiating following their 2-0 defeat at Goodison Park on Sunday.

They released a second statement on Monday as they demanded the audio between the officials in the league fixture to be released.

That prompted the Premier League to release a statement as they were 'extremely disappointed' with the statement posted on X.

Forest have hit back at the Premier League by issuing a third statement since their defeat to Everton.

In their latest statement, they've asked for 'greater transparency around the PGMOL'.

The club wrote: "Following yesterday’s match at Everton, NFFC issued a statement highlighting our concern at the perception of the PGMOL appointment of VAR for the game. This was an issue we raised with PGMOL prior to the fixture because of the fear of the side show that would ensue if anything went wrong with officiating in the game. That fear has materialised, as the correctness of three important decisions against the Club have been called into doubt.

"This is not about individuals but rather how the integrity of the game is seen. We know match officials do not allow outside factors to influence their decision-making and that all referees are required to declare their ‘allegiances’ to PGMOL to avoid any perceived conflict or harm to the game’s reputation for integrity.

"However, it is clear PGMOL must amend its rule on allegiances to account for contextual rivalries in the league table, not just local rivalries. This is currently not within the criteria but should be. Mere reliance on match officials to recuse themselves if contextual rivalries exist invites conjecture, as some have recused themselves where others have not.

"NFFC stands by its request for greater transparency around PGMOL appointments to further protect the game’s reputation, as intended in PGMOL’s existing approach to allegiances.

"Given the widespread and ongoing concerns, not merely of the fans, players and managers of this Club but of many others and the pundits too, over VAR decisions throughout this season any move which boosts confidence in the system should be properly considered."