• The Premier League will delay the introduction of semi-automatic offside technology until next season
• The system was expected to come to the league next year, but clubs have been told it may not be 100 per cent accurate
• FIFA used the system at the 2022 World Cup, while UEFA and other European leagues have started using it

Earlier this year, Premier League clubs voted to introduce semi-automatic offside technology in the 2024/25 season.

However, due to some issues, the system’s implementation will be postponed until next season.

The English top-flight officiating has been heavily criticized for controversial decisions, particularly with the use of the Video Assistant Referee (VAR).

Why Semi-Automatic Technology Will Be Delayed

According to The Timesthe technology may not take effect this season as testing is still ongoing.

It was supposed to be introduced this season to replace the Hawk-Eye system, bringing more scrutiny and criticism to the Premier League. The current system involves VAR technicians drawing manual lines on a screen.

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Premier League the clubs have been informed that they are concerned that the system may not be 100 per cent accurate. This means it may be delayed until next season.

The report adds that the delay has also been caused by the Premier League choosing to use a different system than FIFA, Uefaand other leagues.

They hope that the new system, when implemented, will reduce the offside decision by around 31 seconds.

The technique has been controversial in Spain. Robert Lewandowski’s goal for Barcelona was ruled out because the technique could not distinguish his toe from the defender’s.

Referee admits VAR error

Legit.ng previously reported that Howard Webb, Chief Justice of England, admitted a major VAR error which led to West Ham penalty against Manchester United.

The Red Devils protested angrily but conceded the penalty to lose the match. It was Erik ten Hag’s last game as Man United manager.

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Premier League referee suspended

The judge in it West Ham the game has since been involved in a major controversy.

Legit.ng have reported it David Coote has been suspended after a video surfaced of him ranting foul at Liverpool and Jürgen Klopp.

Source: TUKO.co.ke