When referee Michael Oliver emerged for the second half at Stamford Bridge on Sunday, his communications pack was missing. For 45 minutes as Chelsea beat Brighton 4-3, Premier League officials worked without radio sets for what may have been the first time in 20 years. The referee, his assistants, the fourth official and the VAR team at Stockley Park could not communicate.

Referees first used microphones and earpieces in the 1999-2000 season, with upgraded radio technology introduced from 2006-07. Past issues involved battery packs or communication links, but this was the first time officials had to continue the old school way. BBC Sport understood crowd noise was not filtering out, making it hard for Oliver, assistants Stuart Burt and James Mainwaring, and fourth official Tom Bramall to hear each other.

Usually fan noise is suppressed for clear communication. With headsets ditched, a problem arose: how could VAR Andrew Kitchen do his job without talking to Oliver? A referee speaking to the VAR about incidents like penalties or red cards is a protocol cornerstone. Kitchen used a back-up system via messages to the referee's watch and could talk to Bramall via radio.

This meant VAR checks relied solely on the video official's assessment, not the referee's view. In an era where referees carry more kit, including invisible spray and Ref Cam gear, going lighter might have been a relief. Perhaps Oliver and Co enjoyed rolling back the years to their grassroots beginnings.