Wolves and Aston Villa to be first sides trialling new offside technology in FA Cup

Semi-automated offside technology has been used in other European leagues and in major tournaments - but is yet to be implemented in the Premier League.

Clubs voted unanimously back in April to introduce it into the top flight this season, with a date for later in the campaign expected to be confirmed.

Now the FA has announced that it will first be trialled in seven FA Cup ties in the fifth round that are taking place in Premier League stadiums.

It means Wolves and Villa will be two of the first sides to trial the new technology.

Villa host Cardiff, while Wolves face an all Premier League clash Bournemouth.

The only ground it won't be used at is Deepdale, as Championship Preston take on Burnley. However, there will be VAR in that game.

On Thursday, the FA made the announcement and said: "Following successful live operation in the Emirates FA Cup, the Premier League will look to implement the system later this season."

UEFA introduced the technology into the Champions League back in 2022/23 - but it has taken nearly two seasons for it to make its way into English football.

The FA statement went on to say: "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 FA said.

"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."