The fourth round of the Carabao Cup is currently ongoing, with Manchester United and Arsenal among the teams in action. But why is VAR not being used?
Manchester United were drawn against Newcastle at Old Trafford, while Arsenal are facing West Ham at the London Stadium.
Chelsea and Liverpool are also in action as they look to push towards the final at Wembley.
Advert
One notable absence from the competition, however, is VAR - particularly in light of an incident during the West Ham vs Arsenal game.
The Hammers opened the scoring in the first half through a Ben White own goal from a corner, but there were question marks over a potential foul on goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale in the build-up.
However, VAR could not be consulted to overturn the decision as it is not in use.
Advert
VAR has not come without its controversy since it's introduction in the Premier League, and the EFL has agreed that it will not be used in the Carabao Cup.
That is because some lower league stadiums are unable to accomodate the technology.
The EFL were keen to ensure that each team were on a level playing field, meaning all clubs involved would play a mixture of home and away games and have therefore ditched the use of VAR.
However, the technology will return for the the two-legged semi-finals, as well as the final at Wembley.
Advert
If an EFL side who do not currently have VAR set-up in their stadium make it this far in the competition, the technology will be installed there on a temporary basis.
It has also been agreed that there will be no extra-time should the teams be level after 90 minutes, with a penalty shoot-out used to decide the winner.
SPORTbible are on WhatsApp! We've launched a dedicated news channel to send you the latest news, features and plenty more directly on WhatsApp and all you need to do to sign up is click through to our one-way broadcast channel here HERE for 'SPORTbible News' to appear in the 'Updates' tab on your WhatsApp.
Featured Image Credit: GettyTopics: Carabao Cup, Football, Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, VAR