EFL clubs appear to have no interest in introducing video technology after being approached about the possibility of a challenge system similar to that used in tennis
EFL will not be using any additional video technology for the foreseeable future (Image: George Wood)
EFL clubs have refused to introduce a ‘coach’s challenge’ as part of their move towards VAR.
The EFL has confirmed that the PGMO (Professional Game Match Officials) made a presentation to Football Video Support (FVS) at a recent club meeting. A subsequent survey asking clubs for feedback revealed that Championship teams believe the lack of video technology will be different from the Premier League, where there has been a huge backlash against VAR from fans.
FVS is a system where managers effectively win two challenges per match and their decisions can be reviewed by referees on video.
The system, which has already been piloted in Italy, Malta and Spain, is essentially a scaled-down video assistant referee (VAR) system that can be used in the EFL.
read more: Ipswich handed a get-out-of-jail-free card to lead the three-horse race for a Premier League spot.read more: Stuart Atwell ‘deliberately stopped’ from refereeing Premier League team for two years
Tennis has had a challenge system for many years, allowing players to contest a decision and keep their appeal if successful, but use up their appeal if they fail.
Goal-line technology has been used in the Championship and could be introduced in Ligue 1 next season, but the EFL is clearly downplaying further technology.
The International FA Board (Ifab) is conducting a two-year review of VAR, and the Football Association is also planning to promote a trial system.
FA chief executive Mark Bullingham said recently: “This changes the dynamic. It reduces the number of VAR interventions and effectively increases the burden on coaches.”
VAR was introduced in the Premier League in 2019 but was unpopular with fans (Image: Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)
“That’s something we may continue to learn as we experiment with that model. Some of the games[that use FVS]basically can’t afford to have VAR at the moment. But that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s the wrong model going forward.”
Meanwhile, another important ongoing case, Arsene Wenger’s daylight offside rule, was applied for the first time in Canada over the weekend.
Pacific FC striker Alejandro Diaz has scored his first goal allowed under the new Canadian Premier League rules.
Former Arsenal manager Wenger, FIFA’s head of world football development, defended this as giving an advantage to attackers.
Join our new WhatsApp community and receive Mirror Football content every day. Community members also receive special offers, promotions, and advertisements from us and our partners. If you don’t like our community, you can check it out whenever you like. If you are interested, please read our privacy notice.
World Cup Legends – Special Edition now on sale
Nothing creates legends like the World Cup. This new special edition publication celebrates the heroes of Earth’s greatest sporting event.
Buy now here or from participating supermarkets, high street retailers and independent newsagents from Wednesday 25 March 2026. Online orders will be shipped starting Wednesday, March 25th, with shipping and packaging charges applicable.
