It follows Liverpool’s similar request when Luis Diaz’s goal was incorrectly disallowed in their 2-1 defeat at Tottenham in September.

The Premier League said in a statement that it was “extremely disappointed” by Forest’s social media post.

It added: “It is never appropriate to improperly question the integrity of match officials, and the nature of these comments means the Premier League will also be investigating the matter in relation to the League’s rules.”

Manager Nuno told BBC Sport that Forest “feel they are taking away things from us so it’s difficult”, while Williams said “top-six sides would get all three penalties”.

Forest released another statement later on Monday on X, external, acknowledging that they “know match officials do not allow outside factors to influence their decision-making”.

However, the club also called for “greater transparency around PGMOL appointments to further protect the game’s reputation”.

The statement added: “This is not about individuals but rather how the integrity of the game is seen.

“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.”

Forest said that “any move which boosts confidence in the system should be properly considered” given “the widespread and ongoing concerns” of fans, managers and pundits around the league around VAR decisions.