The Premier League are preparing plans to introduce advanced ‘limb tracking technology’ in a bid to increase the accuracy and speed of offside calls by referees using VAR.
Hawk-Eye, who also developed goal-line technology, are working on a new system that will include the use of multiple cameras to give video assistant referees access to an ‘automated offside line’ in real-time.
It is hoped that the new technology will bring an end to lengthy delays regarding offside calls, such as the decision to overturn an offside incorrectly given against Arsenal forward Pierre Emerick-Aubameyang following his equaliser during the club’s 1-1 draw at Manchester United in September.
According to the Daily Mail, the technology will track the back foot of every outfield player in each VAR game, which will provide a constant offside line for video assistants to assess instantly during close offside calls.
The current system requires video referees to construct a new offside line across the pitch for close call incidents, a feature which has led to frustrating lengthy delays in coming to a decision.
VAR has been subject of much debate this season with fans and pundits alike still very much divided on its usage, though referees are due to meet with the Premier League this week to discuss the progress on how the technology has been used this season.
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