EPL set to stick with VAR when football finally returns later this month

The Premier League are set to persist with VAR when football finally returns later this month.

In the first draft of protocols for each stadium circulated to clubs for when competition returns later this month, Sportsmail can reveal that provisions have been made to ensure the return of VAR.

The document says that, principally, VAR staff will be based across separate rooms at their Stockley Park HQ once games recommence.

Doubts had emerged over the use of VAR during the coronavirus suspension, given the risks attached to officials being infected or spreading the illness.

But top-flight chiefs were always determined to continue using the technology to protect the integrity of the competition.

There is VAR technology available at stadiums which is another alternative.

Similarly, VAR can be conducted remotely with specially equipped vans, another option open to the Premier League.