Goal-line technology gets green light

Goal-line technology has been approved as part of the laws of football in an historic decision by the International FA Board (IFAB).

Two systems, Hawk-Eye and GoalRef, have been approved by the IFAB after passing a series of scientific tests.

Technology could be introduced into the Premier League as soon as the new year following the decision at a meeting in Zurich.

The systems will have to tested after they are installed in each stadium to make sure they are working properly before they are licensed for use.

There will be no move towards bringing in other technology, such as video replays to judge offsides for example, said IFAB in a statement.

“This approval is subject to a final installation test at each stadium before the systems can be used in ’real’ football matches,” said the statement.

“The IFAB was keen to stress that technology will only be utilised for the goal-line and for no other areas of the game.”