VAR will not be in operation during the Carabao Cup semi-finals, a decision influenced by Middlesbrough’s participation to ensure a level playing field.
The EFL has opted not to implement VAR in the two-legged semi-finals between Chelsea and Middlesbrough, as well as Liverpool and Fulham.
In the first leg, Mauricio Pochettino’s Chelsea will face the Championship side on Tuesday night, while Liverpool will host Fulham on Wednesday for the initial clash.
The decision not to use VAR stems from Middlesbrough’s lack of technology at the Riverside Stadium, as the Championship does not employ VAR.
To maintain fairness across the semi-finals, the EFL chose to eliminate VAR entirely rather than selectively applying it in three out of the four legs being played.
Speaking to The Telegraph, a spokesperson for the EFL said: “There will be no VAR used in the semi-finals because it was not possible for the technology to be used at Middlesbrough.
“It was decided it was fairer to not use it in any of the four semi-final games as a result. The FA took a different approach (in the FA Cup) but we felt this was the way to go.
“If it couldn’t be used in one of the games, it won’t be used in any of the four semi-final legs.
“However, VAR will be used for the final regardless of who is playing in it, as the technology is already installed at Wembley.”