BarTalk

Should women be referees?

Dave Parker Shoulder of Mutton Castleford West Yorkshire

Of course they should - why not? They drive trucks and fly planes. We have a female dray so I don't see why they can't referee a match. The Luton manager Mike Newell was probably just annoyed that his team weren't doing well. My mate Dave at the bar says "why not?" - and he's always right.

Mel Charles Airedale Heifer Battyeford West Yorkshire

Yes, of course. But obviously it's a newish thing and it will take time for people to get used to it. There is a bit of a stigma attached to it because women don't play with men on the teams. Mike Newell looked very nervous on television and I think he regretted his comments.

Maxine Burns Old Bridge Inn Barrowford Lancashire

No, I don't. Women don't have the same amount of stamina as men do and I don't think they can keep up with the game as well as they can. It's not that they don't know as much about it - I'm sure that they do. I just don't think Mike Newell should have been bullied out of his opinion.

Barry Cooney Golden Lion Ashton Hayes Chester

I disagree with Mike Newell - I think women should be able to be refs. There was one on the television the other day and she didn't seem to be doing any worse than the others. She was very good! Newall should help himself to a large slice of humble pie for his comments.