GOAL-LINE TECHNOLOGY TO BE INTRODUCED TO EFL

EFL clubs have agreed in principle to introduce goal-line technology into the Sky Bet Championship from the 2017/18 season.

The decision was made by Championship clubs at a meeting today, Thursday 16 February, and subject to further discussions, will now be presented at the EFL AGM in June in order for the regulations to be amended to cover the provision of the new technology.

The decision could see the latest ‘Hawk-eye’ technology installed at all Championship clubs in order to assist referees and their assistants in making crucial decisions whereby there is doubt as to whether the ball has cross the line for a goal or not.

Similar technology has been in operation in the Premier League since the 2013/14 season and is also already utilised in the latter stages of the EFL Cup and the Sky Bet EFL Play-Offs.

Shaun Harvey, EFL CEO, supports the development.

He said: “I welcome the decision of our clubs to introduce goal-line technology into the EFL.

“PGMOL officials do an incredible job and this decision is about providing our match officials with as much support as possible to ensure they are best placed to make the right calls in even the most difficult of situations.

“The technology is widely adopted elsewhere in football, including in two of our competitions and I therefore welcome it as an important addition to the Sky Bet Championship from next season.”