The Premier League was set to introduce semi-automated offside technology this season, but that has now been pushed back until further notice
Offside flag
Premier League technology update delay explained(Image: Getty Images)
Ex-Premier League referee Dermot Gallagher has revealed that the Premier League's plans to bring in semi-automated offside technology (SAOT) have been "put on the back-burner" as tests continue to ensure its reliability before it's introduced into competitive play. The system was initially expected to be rolled out following one of the international breaks in September, October or November, alongside a switch in technology provider.
However, concerns are now being raised that its implementation may be delayed until 2025. Earlier this year, ESPN reported that the Premier League intended to part ways with Hawk-Eye, and in August, Genius Sports was announced as the new supplier for SAOT.
This advanced system employs cameras to monitor thousands of data points on players and the ball, aiding in the determination of offside calls. VAR officials will still need to verify the exact moment the ball is played, but the hope is that SAOT will reduce the time taken to make offside decisions by an average of 30 seconds.
READ MORE: Liverpool could be without seven players vs Everton as Alexis Mac Allister banned for two matchesREAD MORE: Everton new stadium 'flooding' fears eased after footage goes viral
Already in use in the Champions League and having featured at the 2022 FIFA World Cup, the technology's adoption by Arsenal, Chelsea, Tottenham, and other Premier League clubs appears to be on hold. When asked about his knowledge regarding the SAOT on Sky Sports' Ref Watch, Gallagher said, "It's not disappeared," confirming ongoing interest in the technology.
"They're moving from one company to another, they've got to get it 100 per cent right. It's been trialled offline. They feel that it's not quite right at the moment. As you can imagine, if you're going from one company to another, then you can't jump until you're absolutely 100 per cent correct.
"At the moment, it's on the back-burner, but every day they are trailing it and working on it. It will come, but it's going to come at the right time."