Major VAR change for Carabao Cup semi-finals that’s never been seen before in English football
FIFA-style in-stadium referee VAR explanations will be used for the first time in England for the Carabao Cup semi-finals.
Until now, while Prem clubs do give more information over decisions changed after VAR intervention over their giant screens, refs have not been heard.
But after the game’s Lawmakers Ifab signalled a confirmation that in-stadium announcements will be allowed worldwide from the start of next season, EFL bosses have agreed with PGMOL to trial the new system in the remaining matches in competition.
That does not mean a full explanation of decisions by referees and will only apply when the on-field call is altered after a VAR intervention – whether a “factual” call by Stockley Park or after a visit to the pitchside monitor on a “subjective” decision.
If a change is confirmed, the referee will be able to announce in simple terms such as “attacking player No 14 was offside, no goal” or “handball by defender No 17, penalty kick” to let the crowd know the basic reason for the new decision.
VAR has not been used in this season’s Carabao Cup so far – meaning Manchester United’s complaints about a “foul” by Tottenham’s Lucas Bergvall on keeper Altay Bayindir after Son Heung-min’s late corner ended up in their net were to no avail.
But it was always intended that it would be brought in for the two-legged semi-finals and the Wembley final on March 16.
The new approach will first be available for Arsenal’s game with Newcastle on January 7 and then at Tottenham the next day when they face Liverpool.
Ahead of the trial being launched, PGMOL bosses have included practice announcement procedures at training camps and also inside top flight grounds.
PGMOL say the move – likely to be extended to the Prem next season if it is deemed a success – is part of a “broader commitment to transparency including providing greater clarity and understanding around key decisions”.
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Tottenham defeated Man Utd 4-3 in a dramatic quarter-final to book their place in the last four.
A much-changed Liverpool side, meanwhile, won 2-1 at Southampton.
Arsenal beat Crystal Palace 3-2 courtesy of Gabriel Jesus’ hat-trick.
And Newcastle overcame Brentford 3-1 at St James’ Park.