09 January 2024 , 07:00
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VAR will not be used in either Carabao Cup semi-final - and supporters dead set against the officiating system have Middlesbrough to thank.
Michael Carrick’s Boro host Chelsea in the first leg of their tie tonight, while Liverpool welcome Fulham to Anfield tomorrow evening. But owing to the Riverside not having the required technology installed to use VAR, the EFL have decided to scrap its use for all four matches. However, they have already confirmed that VAR will be in use for next month’s final at Wembley.
“Given the system is not installed at one of the participating semi-finalist clubs and to maintain fairness and consistency, VAR technology will not be used in the Carabao Cup semi-final stage this season,” the EFL said.
“This is in line with previous rounds of this season’s competition when at some grounds, but not all, VAR has been available. VAR is installed at Wembley Stadium and as per our previous commitment VAR will be used in February’s final.”
Referee Sam Barrott will take charge of Middlesbrough vs Chelsea and David Coote will officiate Liverpool vs Fulham. The away goal rule will not be in use for the two-legged ties and should the teams be level after 180 minutes, half an hour of extra time will be played followed by a penalty shootout.
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Chelsea head coach Mauricio Pochettino has no fresh injury concerns ahead of the trip north but has warned his players that they must start better than in Saturday’s FA Cup win against Preston North End.
"It's about having a different approach on the game,” Pochettino said. I was disappointed - the players were disappointed - at half-time [against Preston].
“We reviewed what we need to improve but there's not much time to work as our priority was to 100 per cent recover our physical condition so we are fresh. They have good players and a good coach, and it will be tough with atmosphere and no VAR."