Premier League keen to implement goal-line technology 'as soon as possible'

The Premier League have vowed to bring in goal-line technology "as soon is practically possible" following the International FA Board's landmark decision to permit its use in football today.

IFAB announced this evening that two systems, Hawk-Eye and GoalRef, have been approved after passing a series of scientific tests.

And the Premier League wasted no time in hailing the decision, releasing a statement straight after the announcement saying that the technology will be introduced in to England's top division as quickly as possible.

"The Premier League has been a long term advocate of goal-line technology," the statement read.

"We welcome today's decision by IFAB and will engage in discussions with both Hawkeye and GoalRef in the near future with a view to introducing goal-line technology as soon as is practically possible ."

Technology is already used to help officials in other sports such as cricket, rugby and tennis.

A series of controversial decisions last season increased the pressure on the game's law-makers to allow its introduction into football. and the debate reared its head again at the European Championship finals when Ukraine were not given a goal against England despite the ball appearing to be over the line.

Premier League players this evening gave their backing to the introduction of the technology.

Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand tweeted: "Goal line technology approved....losing the essence of the game, debate, human error etc...saying that Hawk eye in tennis is exciting!"

QPR midfielder Joey Barton said: "Goal line tech given green light in Zurich. At last, better late than never. Great news..."

Football Association (FA) chairman David Bernstein and general secretary Alex Horne voted in favour of the motion.

Horne said: "It is a hugely important day. It is a cause we have had on our agenda for a number of years."

Hawk-Eye was tested at Southampton's St Mary's Stadium in May and FIFA thanked the FA for their assistance.

A FIFA spokesman said: "We would like to place on record our sincere thanks to the Football Association for their willingness to support the live match tests, a critical part of Test Phase 2 for Goal-line technology."

PA