Advertisement

VAR will be introduced to Premier League from 2019-20 season after clubs agree deal ‘in principle’

VAR in use: PA/Nick Potts
VAR in use: PA/Nick Potts

Premier League clubs have agreed "in principle" to the introduction of Video Assistant Referees (VAR) technology from next season.

During a shareholders' meeting, clubs were presented with an update on the non-live trials taking place, as well as "key learnings" from VAR's use in the FA Cup and EFL Cup as well as from other leagues being discussed.

A formal request will now be made to both lawmakers the International Football Association Board and Fifa, the world governing body.

A statement from the Premier League said its testing programme would continue for the rest of the season, "with a continued emphasis on those Saturday afternoons which have several matches being played concurrently".

How VAR decisions are communicated to fans in the stadium is to also be addressed, with the development of a "clear protocol" to be established.

The decision comes just days after controversial officiating overshadowed fixtures between Southampton and Watford, and Fulham and Liverpool.

Saints striker Charlie Austin demanded the introduction of VAR after their 1-1 draw with Watford on Saturday, claiming referees "clearly need help" after Southampton's second goal was controversially chalked off.

The introduction of VAR comes after clubs initially voted unanimously against its use in England's top flight during the 2018-19 campaign, instead agreeing to "continue advanced testing" of the system.

VAR was used at last summer's World Cup in Russia, while Serie A (Italy) and the Bundesliga (Germany) have been using the system this season.

Additional reporting by the Press Association