What is referee's call and other VAR changes ahead of Man United vs Fulham debut

Premier League football is finally back this evening as Manchester United get the campaign underway at home to Fulham at Old Trafford.

The Reds will be showcasing their brand new kit, players and even tactics tonight as they welcome Marco Silva's side to the North West. However, it will not be just the teams with a fresh look ahead of the new campaign.

The Premier League has introduced new changes to VAR this season in order to make it more transparent for fans, players and managers alike, according to the PGMOL. From referee's call to semi-automated offsides, MEN Sport has taken a closer look at what the new additions to VAR mean.

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A new term that you will hear being banded about this season is 'referee's call'. Fans of cricket will be familiar with a similar concept called 'umpire's call' in the summer sport.

The Premier League has explained this new term will outline that the on-field official's call is critical to the final decision. VAR shall announce referee's call if there is a lack of substantial evidence to overturn the original decision by the match official.

It is hoped the new term shall draw a clearer line between what is and is not clear and obvious.

Semi-automated offsides will not be in operation immediately in the Premier League but it is hoped it will be in place after one of the autumn international breaks. Effectively, this technology shall be used to identify quickly whether a player is on or offside.

This decision shall be checked by VAR officials at Stockley Park, particularly over the exact moment the initial 'kickpoint' was made. Fans will have seen this technology used effectively