Arne Slot held a meeting with his Liverpool squad upon their return from international duty, emphasizing that being outworked is "almost unacceptable". The Reds' boss issued this rallying cry as they continue their pursuit of the Premier League title.

Slot took the opportunity on Sunday to remind his players of the high standards set this season. As Liverpool prepares to host Everton in the Merseyside derby on Wednesday, it aims to edge closer to securing a 20th title.

However, following a Carabao Cup defeat by Newcastle before the break, Slot felt it necessary to deliver a stern message to his team. He stated: "There was definitely a message to the players and they came in Saturday and we had the meeting you are talking about yesterday [Sunday].

"The message is as simple as it has always been – don't accept you are outworked by a team, which we were, against Newcastle.

"If the stakes are so high, that is almost unacceptable, almost. It can happen in a season once or twice but it shouldn't happen many times."

For the clash with Everton, Liverpool is expected to have Alisson Becker and Ryan Gravenberch fit, while Conor Bradley could also feature after recovering from a hamstring issue. However, Trent Alexander-Arnold remains sidelined with an ankle problem.

Liverpool boss Arne Slot (Image: Getty Images)

Despite ongoing contract drama surrounding Alexander-Arnold, Virgil van Dijk and Mohamed Salah, Slot reaffirmed that it does not distract him from the Reds' quest for glory. Speculation regarding the future of the Reds right-back escalated during the international break with reports that Real Madrid is nearing a deal to sign him on a free transfer this summer.

Slot commented: "His situation is unfortunately that he is injured, otherwise people would have spoken that he had one or two brilliant performances for the England team.

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"But he is injured and for him that means he is fully focused on his recovery. For us it means we will try to help him to be back as soon as he can.

"And for the rest, for eight months it went a bit up and down with talks about him, Virgil or Mo, but we have never been focused on those talks, we have always been focused on what we have to do."

"For Virgil and Mo that is trying to win the Merseyside derby and for Trent it is trying to be fit as soon as he can."

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Arne Slot and his Liverpool squad are gearing up for a Merseyside Derby that presents an opportunity to showcase their season's excellence in the Premier League. This comes on the heels of Slot's admission that he made mistakes in the Carabao Cup final against Newcastle, not rotating his squad sufficiently after a gruelling Champions League knockout by Paris Saint-Germain.

For the first time this season, Liverpool has faced scrutiny. However, the sting of European disappointment and Wembley defeat will be quickly forgotten if they secure victories in the Premier League.

With a commanding lead at the top and likely just five wins away from clinching a 20th league title in May, the anticipation is building. The celebrations are set to be explosive, with red pyrotechnics and wild festivities, but there's still work to be done.

It begins with Everton's visit, with memories of the intense last derby at Goodison Park in February still fresh — a match that ended in a stalemate but hardly hindered Liverpool's title chase. Even potential points dropped tonight wouldn't spell disaster.

Yet, Slot has conceded that he misjudged the Newcastle clash, perhaps leaving something to prove this evening. In a Sunday meeting, he emphasized that relentless effort is essential.

Everton managed to outpace them at times in February, a scenario Slot is keen to avoid at Anfield. "Show them the work rate they have put in for so many games in a row," Slot urged, highlighting the importance of maintaining their high-energy performances.

The Liverpool boss admitted to his lack of rotation in the squad, using PSG as an example. He said: "Paris Saint-Germain was a great example of that, so maybe, maybe, maybe I made the biggest mistake by not rotating enough."

Liverpool boss Arne Slot held a meeting with his players after the international break (Image: 2025 Chris Brunskill/Fantasista)

"But I thought there were four days in between for Newcastle, they had enough rest but again it is too simple to only say we were outworked, we have to give credit to everything Newcastle did because in the end we conceded a corner.

"That is nothing to do with a sprint or tracking back or whatever, it is just conceding a corner but it is emphasising on what made us where we are now.

"For me, that is, apart from quality, an incredible work rate every single game we played in the Premier League."

Slot's admission has sparked questions about whether Liverpool needs more depth in its squad. Only Nottingham Forest have used fewer players than Liverpool this season in the league, with the Reds using 24 and the Tricky Trees on 23.

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Out of all the teams playing in Europe, Liverpool has made the fewest changes per league game.

Despite this, Slot insists he trusts players like Wataru Endo, Federico Chiesa and Harvey Elliott, even though they've had fewer minutes compared to regular starters.

He stated: "It is not to say that if you don't play someone, you don't trust them. I do.

"But probably I find the other ones a bit better otherwise I would make a different choice. Or they fit better in the team. Mo has certain qualities and Dom has certain qualities and these help each other.

"Whereas with other players it is a bit more difficult. That is what makes a team. I cannot play with 11 Mo Salahs and I cannot play with 11 Dominik Szoboszlais."

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Bukayo Saka made a return to the field after more than three months, scoring as a substitute in Arsenal's 2-1 victory over Fulham on Tuesday.

This win has narrowed the gap between the Gunners and Premier League leaders Liverpool to nine points. The England winger was brought on in the 66th minute to rapturous applause, having been sidelined due to a hamstring injury.

Within seven minutes, he found himself once again the toast of the Emirates Stadium, having headed home Arsenal's second goal. Mikel Merino netted the opener for second-place Arsenal in the 37th minute.

The North London side will need Liverpool to falter significantly if they are to clinch their first league title since 2004. Liverpool faces Everton in the Merseyside derby on Wednesday, with eight rounds remaining in the Premier League.

Rodrigo Muniz managed to score a consolation goal for Fulham in stoppage time. Saka, who has been out of action since injuring his hamstring in a league match against Crystal Palace on Dec. 21, is back just in time for Arsenal's Champions League quarterfinals clash with Real Madrid next week.

Whether Gabriel Magalhaes will be fit to face the European champions is uncertain. The Brazilian center-back was substituted in the 16th minute against Fulham due to a suspected hamstring injury.

Mikel Arteta will be pleased with Bukayo Saka's return (Image: Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved)

Discussing Arsenal's chances of catching Liverpool, Declan Rice said after the game: "We know we're behind them in the league. We can only control what we can do and that's to win our eight games. We've slipped up one too many times this season, we will keep hunting them down and keep putting pressure on them that's all we can do."

On the injury to Gabriel, he added: "I don't know what's happened, I hope he's OK because he's been arguably our best player this season and we need him for big matches and big occasions."

In other matches, Wolverhampton secured a 1-0 victory over West Ham, moving further away from the relegation zone, while Nottingham Forest was set to host Manchester United later in the evening as part of a midweek round of fixtures.

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As the Premier League season reaches its crucial final stretch, Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk has issued a rallying cry to the Anfield faithful ahead of Wednesday’s Merseyside derby. With five home fixtures remaining in the 2024-25 campaign, van Dijk has called on supporters to make Anfield an intimidating fortress once again. The upcoming clash with Everton represents the first of these vital home games, and van Dijk knows the impact the fans can have on the team’s performance.

Focus on the Remaining Games and the Role of Fans

Liverpool are still in the hunt for the Premier League title, but their recent setbacks, including a painful defeat in the Champions League and a League Cup final loss, have left them with work to do. Writing in his matchday programme column, van Dijk reflected on the situation, saying: “We know what is at stake over the next nine games. We know the position we are in, and we also know the things that have put us there.”

Photo: IMAGO

Van Dijk has stressed that, despite the disappointments, the team is fully focused on what lies ahead. He continued: “All season long, I have been talking about focus, humility, hard work, togetherness and full commitment, and those are the things, along with our quality, which will get us to where we want to be.”

The captain also acknowledged the crucial role fans play in creating the electric atmosphere that has become synonymous with Anfield. He reiterated his earlier message, urging the supporters to keep the energy levels high: “We want Anfield to be absolutely on fire every time we play between now and the end of the season.”

Merseyside Derby: A Chance for Redemption

For van Dijk and his teammates, this derby represents more than just three points; it’s a chance to make amends for the previous meeting between the two sides. A late equaliser at Goodison Park in February saw Liverpool drop points in what was a frustrating draw. Van Dijk, however, remains optimistic: “We know what to expect from Everton. We only have to go back a few weeks to see that. The game at Goodison Park was really tough and ended in disappointment for us with that late equaliser, but we know we can play better than we did that night.”

Photo: IMAGO

He acknowledged that the team’s performance wasn’t up to their usual standards but stressed the importance of bouncing back: “With you guys roaring us on, that will be the aim. We can do better, and we will.”

What Liverpool Need to Do: Focus and Determination

Despite the challenges faced recently, including the Champions League exit to PSG and the League Cup final defeat to Newcastle, van Dijk emphasised the need to stay focused. “It’s been a long time since we played a league fixture, and after the disappointments of the Paris Saint-Germain and Newcastle games, we are all keen to get back out there and put a few wrongs right,” he said.

For Liverpool, the remaining nine games of the season are crucial, and it’s clear that van Dijk and his teammates are ready to give everything for the title push. The captain’s message reflects the team’s renewed commitment and determination to fight for every point. With the support of the Anfield crowd, Liverpool hope to turn their recent setbacks into motivation for success.

Photo IMAGO Where to Watch Liverpool vs Everton

The highly anticipated Merseyside derby is set for 8pm BST on Wednesday, April 2, 2025, at Anfield. Fans can watch the match live on Sky Sports Premier League and Sky Sports Main Event in the UK, with coverage starting at 7pm. For those who prefer to stream the match, it will be available via the Sky Go app and NOW. For those unable to watch live, highlights will be available on the Sky Sports app and YouTube, with Match of the Day airing on BBC One at 10:40pm.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

The message from van Dijk is exactly what the team needs right now. After a rough few weeks, including a shocking exit from the Champions League and the League Cup heartbreak, Liverpool must refocus and reclaim their place at the top. Van Dijk’s words are a reminder that, despite setbacks, the season is far from over.

The fans have an important role to play in this. The energy of Anfield, especially in a Merseyside derby, has often been the 12th man, and if the supporters follow van Dijk’s call for an electric atmosphere, it could give Liverpool the boost they need to overcome Everton. The team must show resilience, and with the quality they possess, it’s clear that they are capable of turning things around.

This derby is not just about points; it’s about pride, and Liverpool will want to prove that they can bounce back from adversity. With the right focus, humility, and commitment, the Reds can take a significant step towards their title aspirations.

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Liverpool are not back in action until Wednesday when they host Everton, but their closest Premier League title rivals Arsenal returned to face Fulham on Tuesday

Liverpool are not back in action until Wednesday when they host Everton, but their closest Premier League title rivals Arsenal returned to face Fulham on Tuesday

Former Liverpool talent Ryan Kent has finally signed for a new club five months after leaving Jose Mourinho's Fenerbahce

Former Liverpool talent Ryan Kent has finally signed for a new club five months after leaving Jose Mourinho's Fenerbahce

In the latest episode of the Media Matters segment on the AEyeScouted Podcast by Anfield Index, Dave Hendrick and Karl Matchett offer a frank, stats-laden and emotionally charged preview of the impending Premier League clash between Liverpool and Everton. The Merseyside Derby, always fraught with intensity, is given meticulous treatment by two voices who know the Red half of the city inside out.

“It’s going to be our job on Wednesday night to bring an end to this nine-game nonsense of David Moyes not losing games,” Hendrick declares, setting the tone early. “He loses one third of his games across his career—it is time for us to remind him of that fact.”

The Ev & The FA Cup Weekend: #AEyeScouted@HendrickD82 & @karlmatchett look at the midweek game!

Listen Now: https://t.co/a8CMrMoyVC pic.twitter.com/dRZ2IbxyZX

— AnfieldIndex (@AnfieldIndex) March 31, 2025

Everton’s Grim Reality and Moyes’ Mirage

Matchett and Hendrick pulled no punches when discussing Everton’s current trajectory. “They give their fans absolutely nothing to be cheerful about,” laments Hendrick, running through the litany of managerial failures and the club’s stagnant competitive status.

“This is the longest unbeaten streak since 2013-14,” Matchett notes with statistical precision, referencing a potential record on the line for Moyes’ side. But Hendrick cuts through the numbers with a caustic assessment: “They’re just sort of existing in the Premier League season after season.”

In his sharpest critique yet, Hendrick claims, “There’s no joy in being an Everton fan… they would have been better off getting relegated.” He then adds: “Instead they’ve just chosen this existence of mediocrity.”

Arne Slot’s Calculated Break Could Be the Turning Point

Arne Slot, Liverpool’s current manager, is praised for what might initially have seemed a gamble. “The decision by Arne Slot to punt on the FA Cup may have been the smartest thing he’s done all season,” says Hendrick, highlighting the recovery time it afforded fatigued players.

Matchett picks up the thread, stating, “Hopefully this big break… has just been a bit of a reset for some players.” He expresses cautious optimism that returning players like Cody Gakpo and Mohamed Salah could provide the physical spark Liverpool have lacked in recent weeks.

Gakpo’s involvement is eagerly anticipated. “He’s one who’s in need of a big performance in this game,” Hendrick urges, pointing to the Dutchman’s underwhelming form.

Photo: IMAGO Derby Demands and Midfield Battles

Discussing tactical options, both hosts agree on one thing: the match will be a fight. “It’s going to be a battle in midfield,” says Hendrick, stressing that whoever starts needs to show more “application,” “aggression,” and a willingness to do the dirty work.

Matchett, always pragmatic, dismisses the idea of merely adding bodies to midfield. “It’s not numbers in that area that’s going to win us this,” he explains. “It’s application.”

Hendrick expects Slot to start Salah, Diaz and Gakpo in attack. He questions Darwin Núñez’s recent form: “Neither Jota nor Darwin have really done anything to warrant starting.”

Photo IMAGO

The key, as ever, lies in execution. “We cannot have a season where we’re winning a league title and not beating that bunch,” Hendrick insists.

Focused Minds, Clear Maths

With Liverpool sitting 12 points clear and nine games left, the maths is simple. “Five wins and one draw guarantees us the title,” Hendrick reminds listeners. “No matter what Arsenal do.”

Matchett concurs, but urges caution: “The only thing that’s going to matter is that we win.”

This Derby isn’t just a local spat—it’s a decisive fixture in a Premier League title race that could come down to grit, depth, and emotional clarity.

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As Liverpool begin shaping their summer transfer plans under Arne Slot, reports from Sky Sports Germany suggest that Bayer Leverkusen’s Piero Hincapie has emerged as a serious target for the club. The Ecuadorian international is now firmly on the Reds’ radar as they assess defensive reinforcements amid potential exits in that department.

Slot’s Centre-Back Concerns Mount

Liverpool’s need for a new centre-back isn’t new — it’s been quietly simmering beneath the surface all season. The Merseyside club currently have four senior options at the back, but speculation continues to grow around the future of Joe Gomez and Jarell Quansah, both of whom are being courted by Newcastle United.

Photo: IMAGO

Slot’s tactical emphasis on positional fluidity and building from the back has made the defensive line a priority zone. With Virgil van Dijk still leading the line but no longer invincible, the Reds are carefully planning for succession.

“Liverpool are seriously considering reinforcing their centre-back department in the summer, given the possibility of one or two departures in that position,” Sky Germany reported — a statement that reinforces the quiet urgency at Anfield.

Piero Hincapie – The Ideal Slot Defender?

Hincapie isn’t an unfamiliar name in scouting circles. Since joining Bayer Leverkusen in 2021, the 23-year-old has rapidly evolved into a standout performer under Xabi Alonso, helping the club to their first-ever Bundesliga title this season.

With 37 appearances, three goals, and two assists to his name, Hincapie’s impact has gone beyond just defending. His versatility is another major draw — he can operate as both a left-sided centre-back and a full-back, giving Liverpool tactical flexibility should injuries or fixture congestion strike again.

Photo: IMAGO

“The Ecuadorian has been with Leverkusen since 2021 and has grown into a key player at the club,” the report stated. It’s worth noting that Hincapie’s stock is on the rise, and Liverpool’s reported interest isn’t isolated — Real Madrid are also in the race, pushing the Reds into potentially fierce competition.

Guehi, Huijsen and the Defensive Depth Debate

Hincapie is one of several names being linked to Liverpool’s defence rebuild. Talks were held “with the agent of Crystal Palace’s defender Marc Guehi a few weeks ago,” and the interest there is “serious.” Guehi’s presence in Palace’s resurgent setup under Oliver Glasner makes him an appealing Premier League-ready option.

Meanwhile, Dean Huijsen, the 19-year-old Spain and Bournemouth defender, is also admired by Anfield’s recruitment team. However, with Real Madrid reportedly “in the lead for his signature,” the trail may be cooling — at least for now.

Photo: IMAGO

The variety of targets points to Liverpool’s flexibility in the market, but it also highlights the uncertainty around who stays and who goes. If Gomez or Quansah depart, at least one signing will be essential, and Hincapie could offer more than just depth — he could be a long-term fixture.

Financial Hurdles and Competition

The financial aspect of this potential deal cannot be ignored. Hincapie’s contract runs until 2029, having penned a new deal just four months ago, which places Bayer Leverkusen in a strong bargaining position. With no public release clause, the German champions may look to spark a bidding war — especially with Real Madrid in the background.

Leverkusen’s pursuit of Albian Hajdari suggests they are preparing for life after Hincapie, which could strengthen Liverpool’s hand if a suitable bid is tabled. Still, Milos Kerkez of Bournemouth is also being monitored for the left-back role, although the Cherries are demanding a hefty £45 million.

How much Leverkusen demand for Hincapie remains unknown, but with his contract status and current form, the price will not be modest.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

This story will definitely get the Kop talking. Hincapie feels like the kind of proactive signing Liverpool fans have been crying out for — a blend of youth, top-level experience, and tactical versatility. He’s been a pivotal cog in Alonso’s Leverkusen machine, and the fact that the Bundesliga champions are already lining up a replacement suggests there’s real fire behind this smoke.

If Real Madrid are genuinely in for Huijsen, then Liverpool could shift gears on Hincapie swiftly. And with Guehi also in the frame, the recruitment team seems to be operating with flexibility and purpose. There’s a clear shift away from stopgap signings; these are players who could shape the spine of the team for the next five years or more.

But the fanbase won’t be easily impressed by interest alone. What matters is getting these deals done — early, and decisively. Arne Slot will need a dependable and mobile defensive base to implement his ideas, and Hincapie fits that bill. If we’re serious about returning to title contention, we can’t afford another summer of last-minute fixes.

This could be the first major step of the Slot era. It’s time to walk the talk.

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Liverpool’s Eyes on Piero Hincapie Amid Defensive Overhaul Plans As Liverpool begin shaping their summer transfer plans under Arne Slot, reports from Sky Sports Germany suggest that Bayer Leverkusen’s Piero Hincapie has emerged as a serious target for the club. The Ecuadorian international is now firmly on the Reds’ radar as they assess defensive reinforcements […]

The post Sky Sports: Liverpool ‘Seriously Considering’ Move to Sign 23-year-old Bundesliga Star appeared first on anfieldindex.com.

Latest Liverpool transfer news with Joao Pedro links re-emerging amid summer interest in Alexander Isak

Latest Liverpool transfer news with Joao Pedro links re-emerging amid summer interest in Alexander Isak

Liverpool vs Everton: Injury Woes and Selection Dilemmas Ahead of the Merseyside Derby As the Merseyside Derby looms on the horizon, Liverpool find themselves navigating a complex web of injuries and rotation decisions under new manager Arne Slot. With the clash against Everton set for 8pm on Wednesday, April 2nd at Anfield, the Reds face […]

The post Liverpool Starting XI vs Everton: Confirmed Team News and Predicted Lineup appeared first on anfieldindex.com.

Let’s get one thing clear: Liverpool are going to be champions come May, writes Peter Bolster. The 20th league title is on the horizon, and there’s an inevitability about it.

But this isn’t about that. This is about Everton and the myth they’ve built around February’s derby – about a 98th-minute equaliser that they’ve convinced themselves was a winner.

And now, Liverpool need to put it right.

James Tarkowski’s 98th-minute thunderbolt didn’t win Everton the game. Objectively, it was a draw – two points dropped for Liverpool.

But the way Everton fans talk about it, tweet about it, and sing about it, you’d think it was a cup final. Virgil van Dijk echoed that sentiment in his post-match comments.

Abdoulaye Doucoure’s taunting of the away end after the final whistle summed it up – they celebrated not just because they’d snatched a point, but because they believed they’d landed a blow on Liverpool. And here’s the thing: that belief matters.

Killing belief

This is where social constructionism comes into play – the idea that reality isn’t defined purely by facts, but by the meaning we attach to them.

A draw is a draw on paper, but Everton fans have collectively built a different truth around that moment. Because they believe it was a win – because they celebrated it, because they’ve told themselves it mattered – it becomes a kind of psychological victory.

It gives them confidence. And in football, belief can be dangerous.

Liverpool allowed that story to take shape. The game was dreadful, one of too many lately.

The dropped points against the likes of Man United, another of our fiercest rivals, still sting, and more recently, defeats in both the Champions League and League Cup final – the latter with the feeling of throwing one away.

That February derby was in the midst of those results in 2025 – a flat, uninspired performance. Liverpool didn’t play like champions – and Everton fed off it.

They saw a lack of creativity, firepower, and conviction, and they’ve built their own version of the truth around it.

The Mohamed Salah foul in stoppage time still lingers. Or more correctly, the lack of a foul being given – the less said about Michael Oliver the better.

And then the clash of heads which resulted in even more additional time being played. Liverpool were right to feel aggrieved with what came next.

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Tarkowski’s equaliser didn’t just give Everton a point – it gave them a narrative. It gave them a feeling that they’d stood toe-to-toe with Liverpool and come away stronger.

That’s what social constructionism does, it shapes how people experience and remember events. And once enough people believe it, it starts to feel real. The fans running onto the pitch are a testament to that theory.

That’s why this return game at Anfield matters. It’s not about the title. It’s not about the points. It’s about taking control of the story.

Everton fans have convinced themselves that the February draw was a turning point, that David Moyes has changed their fortunes to such an extent that they can compete with the Reds, in a one-off game at least.

They’ve mistaken a moment of fortune for a shift in power. Another draw at Anfield would cement that belief. It would fuel the idea that Everton are closing the gap, even if the league table says otherwise. That’s why Liverpool have to stop it.

And let’s be clear, this is our football league. We’re by far the most superior football team in the land. Everton are living off scraps and calling it a feast.

If Liverpool allow them to walk away from Anfield with another point, it won’t affect Liverpool’s ability to win the title but it will reinforce the story Everton fans have built for themselves.

And that’s how belief spreads. Liverpool need to kill that belief at its root. Not with a scrappy 1–0, but with the kind of dominant performance that makes any idea of equality laughable.

Time for Liverpool to put on a show

Winning the title isn’t enough. The best Liverpool sides don’t just win – they impose themselves. They create a reality where the idea of Everton taking anything from a game like this becomes unthinkable.

Liverpool need to tear down the myth of Tarkowski’s equaliser and replace it with a new truth – one where Liverpool are miles ahead and everyone knows it. And they are miles ahead so much so that, according to Opta, they now have a 99.13 percent chance of winning the Premier League, but the delusion across Stanley Park remains at an all-time high.

If the Blues manage to get any type of result on Wednesday, they will remind us of it for a long time and that’s why Everton fans will love nothing more than a draw at Anfield. To them, a draw is a win.

It keeps the illusion alive, the idea that they can resist Liverpool, frustrate Liverpool, and keep Liverpool in reach. Doucoure’s taunting wasn’t about the result – it was about the feeling that Everton had forced Liverpool to play on their terms. That’s the mindset Liverpool need to crush.

But Liverpool need to do it the right way. Matching Everton‘s aggression and scrappiness would be playing into their hands.

Liverpool need to respond with football – with control, precision, and ruthlessness. Make them chase shadows. Make them realise that February was a glitch, not a sign of progress because Everton are still miles behind Liverpool, and everyone knows it.

So, yes, we’re going to win the league. But I want us to play like champions from now until May. Not grinding out results – putting on a show.

Everton fans have been living off the illusion of victory since February. It’s time to remind them what a real win looks like.

This column was penned by Peter Bolster, who writes for the Red All Over the Land fanzine and is secretary of Spirit of Shankly.

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Mohamed Salah's UK-based company has published its accounts for the 2023/24 financial year

Mohamed Salah's UK-based company has published its accounts for the 2023/24 financial year

Semi-automated offside technology will be introduced in Premier League matches from April 12, the league has announced.

The technology, which was originally intended to be introduced after one of the autumn international breaks in October or November, eventually made its debut in English football in seven of the eight fifth-round FA Cup ties at the start of March.

Following additional non-live testing in the Premier League, SAOT will now be used for the first time in the top flight, using virtual offside lines and graphics along with optical player tracking for those watching at home or in a stadium.

A Premier League statement said: “Semi-automated offside technology automates key elements of the offside decision-making process to support the video assistant referee (VAR).

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“It provides more efficient placement of the virtual offside line, using optical player tracking, and generates virtual graphics to ensure an enhanced in-stadium and broadcast experience for fans.

“The technology maintains the integrity of the process while enhancing the speed, efficiency, and consistency of offside decision-making.”

Using 30 cameras around a stadium, the technology is set to be used in close offside decisions and, like VAR, will help confirm or suggest a change to the on-field decision made by the referee.

The Premier League has worked with Professional Game Match Officials Ltd and Genius Sports to develop the technology.

Speaking in February, Premier League chief football officer Tony Scholes said the system was “the most accurate and the most future-proof” available.

It will debut at the Etihad Stadium on April 12, when Manchester City host Crystal Palace in the early kick-off, with three more fixtures set to follow at 3pm.

The day’s action concludes with Arsenal’s clash against Brentford at the Emirates in the teatime fixture.

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Everton and Liverpool are set to be affected by a Premier League rule change

Everton and Liverpool are set to be affected by a Premier League rule change