Ally McCoist caught in awkward Celtic VAR moment after Stiliyan Petrov comment forces abrupt broadcast halt

Ally McCoist refused to take the bait over VAR controversy after Stiliyan Petrov jokingly dragged him into the heated debate surrounding officiating in Scottish football during a live talkSPORT exchange.

With VAR and refereeing standards dominating discussion following a dramatic end to the Premiership season, the former Rangers F.C. striker found himself put on the spot by Petrov while appearing on the talkSPORT Breakfast Show alongside Gabby Agbonlahor.

The controversy intensified after Celtic F.C. were awarded a stoppage-time penalty against Motherwell in a decision that carried major title implications. Celtic ultimately sealed a dramatic 3-1 victory over Heart of Midlothian F.C. on the final day to secure a fifth consecutive league title under Martin O’Neill.

During a discussion centred around Aston Villa’s Europa League final clash, Agbonlahor raised the subject of VAR, prompting a smiling Petrov to tease McCoist by warning against bringing up the controversial topic in his presence. Rather than getting drawn into the debate, McCoist quickly shut down the conversation and instead turned his attention to praising Martin O’Neill’s achievements, asking Petrov for his honest assessment of the Celtic boss.

Petrov responded with glowing praise, insisting there had never been any doubt about O’Neill’s ability to deliver success despite the difficult circumstances.

The former Celtic midfielder admitted performances had not always been convincing but credited the manager’s leadership and man-management for dragging the team over the line, describing him as one of the best in handling players after returning to football following a lengthy absence from the game.