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VAR: Why instant replays will not be shown inside Premier League stadiums

The introduction of the technology has led to criticism due to a lack of communication

Jack Rathborn
Tuesday 20 August 2019 15:00 BST
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Pep Guardiola unhappy with VAR inconsistencies after Man City draw

VAR replays will not be shown inside Premier League stadiums until a final decision has been made by officials, football’s lawmakers have announced.

England’s top flight allows big screens to show replays if the decision is overturned, but some have criticised the introduction of the technology and its impact on the atmosphere.

The International Football Association Board (IFAB) maintain organisations can use footage as they know what is “most appropriate and effective for their local football environment”, but secretary Lukas Brud insists they must wait until the referee has made a final call in order to protect officials.

“We have to protect referees,” Brud told Sky Sports News.

“We want to avoid referees feeling pressured or influenced by players, managers or fans as they are in the process of making a decision.

“We do not allow decision-making footage to be shown while it is under consideration.”

Brud believes the technology will take as long as “10 years to perfect” with 130 incidents already assessed in the opening two weeks of the Premier League season.

VAR replays will only be shown once a decision has been made

Only five decisions have been overturned though.

The teething process England is experiencing is normal though, Brud concluded, revealing that experience tells them it usually takes a full season to fully grasp the rules of VAR and its advantages.

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