PREM clubs have been blasted for their “ludicrous” decision to bring in semi-automated offside technology AFTER next season has started.
The 20 top-flight sides yesterday unanimously voted to back refs’ chief Howard Webb’s recommendation to use the new system — which will slash the time on VAR offside calls.
But the limb-tracking cameras will NOT be ready for the August Prem kick-off.
And ex-Prem ref Mark Halsey insists the clubs have scored an embarrassing own goal, fuming: “It’s ludicrous we are not bringing this in from day one next season.
“The Premier League is awash with money and it needs to be operational for every match.
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"It’s got to be ready for the season kick-off. We can’t bring it in four, five or six weeks into the season as that will question the competition’s integrity.
"If it’s not ready, then wait until 2025-26.”
The new SAOT system — which sees the Prem follow Fifa and Uefa’s lead — will not be used until after one of the three autumn international breaks in September, October and November.
That allows an agreement over the right provider and the roll-out of the camera tech across the 20 grounds.
Halsey added: “SAOT should have been introduced at the start of last season to follow on from the World Cup and the Champions League.
“The clubs didn’t vote for it but the stakeholders of the League should have been working on it during the winter. What have they been waiting for?
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“The Prem is the best in the world but we always seem to be behind. I’ve been championing SAOT for a few years.
“We have seen too much controversy over offsides and the length of time taken. It’s great the change is finally being made.”
