The fifth round of the this season will see the debut of semi-automated offside technology, with plans for the to adopt the system later in the season. The technology will be utilised only in the seven matches set to take place at Premier League venues, while VAR will be operational at all eight fifth round games.

A joint statement from the FA, Premier League and PGMOL revealed that in-stadium VAR announcements will also be introduced to "provide improved clarity and understanding for spectators and viewers".

They further clarified that the offside technology has undergone "extensive testing", with the Premier League aiming to implement it this season if its use in the FA Cup proves successful.

"Following successful live operation in the Emirates FA Cup, the Premier League will look to implement the system later this season," the statement read.

"Semi-Automated Offside Technology will provide more efficient placement of the virtual offside line, based on optical player tracking, and produce virtual graphics to ensure an enhanced in-stadium and broadcast experience for supporters.

"The operation of Semi-Automated Offside Technology does not change the accuracy of the decision making but enhances the speed and efficiency of the process." The Premier League had initially hoped to introduce the system last Autumn, but ultimately decided against it.

Last week, Tony Scholes, the Premier League's chief football officer, provided an update on the latest technology advancements.

"The system that we've adopted, we believe it to be the best system," he declared. "We believe it to be the most accurate and the most future-proof system as well. I have to confess, given the difficulties that we had over the first few months of the season, I had severe doubts about this but the progress made over the last four to six weeks has been significant."

Scholes also dismissed concerns regarding the mid-season introduction of new technology affecting the game's integrity. "The operation of semi-automated offside technology does not change the integrity of the offside law and doesn't change the integrity of decision-making.

"We have got 100 per cent accuracy (on offside after VAR checks) this season, so it won't improve the accuracy. What it does is make the process more efficient." Developed in collaboration with Genius Sports, the Premier League is confident that this technology will cut down the duration of offside checks by an average of 31 seconds.

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