EPL clubs agree to bring VAR to league next season

LONDON: English Premier League clubs have agreed in principle to introduce video assistant referees (VAR) from next season.

At yesterday’s shareholders’ meeting in London, clubs were presented with an update on the nonlive VAR trials which have been taking place, while the system’s use in the FA Cup and League Cup as well as other major leagues was discussed.

A formal request will now be made to both the lawmaker, the International Football Association Board, and Fifa, the world governing body, to use VAR next season.

VAR technology was used at the 2018 World Cup finals in Russia and, following some initial teething problems, it was generally viewed to have been a success.

The German Bundesliga and Serie A in Italy both already have VAR, while Uefa is set to bring it in for the Champions League from 201920.

Southampton striker Charlie Austin hit out at the lack of VAR in the premier league only last weekend after seeing a goal controversially ruled out during the 11 draw against Southampton.

‘‘We go on about VAR this, VAR that — help the officials out, clearly they need help,’’ Austin said.

‘‘We play in the premier league, the best league in the world, the mostwatched league in the world, give them all the help they need because clearly they cost us two points today. It’s a joke.’’

Premier league clubs have agreed to pay departing executive chairman Richard Scudamore a £5 million ($NZ9.4 million) bonus spread over three years, the league said yesterday.

The proposed payment had been criticised by the Football Supporters’ Federation (FSF), who said it would be a ‘‘hugely unpopular’’ move.

The premier league said in a statement it had been supported and endorsed by the 20 clubs at a shareholders’ meeting and added Scudamore would retain an advisory role.

It said the payments recognised Scudamore’s work over the past 19 years and took into account ‘‘a comprehensive set of noncompete clauses’’ as well as ensuring his experience would remain available to them. — BPA/ Reuters

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