In-stadium VAR announcements will be trialled in the Carabao Cup semi-finals which start next week.

The Professional Game Match Officials Board (PGMOL) have confirmed that the Arsenal vs Newcastle United and Tottenham Hotspur vs Liverpool ties will see referees announce the final decision to the crowd. It is the first time such announcements will be used in English football.

A statement issued on the EFL website said: “As part of the trial, referees will announce (over the stadium public address system) the final decision following a visit to the VAR pitchside monitor, or upon the conclusion of factual matters such as accidental handball by a goalscorer or offside judgements. Only the final decision will be announced in the stadium.

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“In-stadium VAR announcements have already been successfully introduced in several FIFA events, including the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, and aim to provide greater clarity and understanding around key decisions to supporters in the stadiums and those watching from home.

“The new pilot forms part of PGMOL’s broader commitment to transparency and embracing technological advancements for the benefit of Match Officials and fans. This latest pilot has the support of the EFL and follows earlier collaboration with PGMOL in 2018 to trial VAR in EFL competitions ahead of its introduction in the Premier League.”

The trial will run for both legs of the semi-finals. Arsenal host Newcastle at the Emirates on Tuesday, January 7th with the return leg taking place at St James’ Park on Wednesday, February 5th.

Spurs play Liverpool at home on Wednesday, January 8th before travelling to Anfield on Thursday, February 6th. The winner of each tie will progress to the final which will take place at Wembley on Sunday, March 16th.