Use of VAR to be a ‘smoother process’ in the coming season as Viaplay Cup changes detailed by SFA

VAR was introduced to Scottish football in October last year and was used in both the semi-final and final of the Viaplay Cup.

But this season will see the technology available for the knockout rounds AFTER the group stage phase that gets underway on June 15.

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Its use in the 23/24 League Cup campaign will be similar to that of the Scottish Cup last season, only being used in the second round and quarter-final IF the game is televised at a Premiership ground.

If games at Premiership grounds are not televised, the technology can still be used, but only if one or both teams agree to cover the cost.

And it will be used in the semi-final and final of the competition.

VAR officials have come under scrutiny for their decision making and the lengthy time consumption of checks during games, but SPFL chief executive Neil Doncaster has admitted he expects the process to run a lot smoother this season.

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Speaking to Sky Sports, he said: "We knew it was going to be a difficult start with new technology and a new way of operating and wherever VAR has been implemented across Europe you've seen that.

"We knew it wasn't going to be plain sailing. Ian Maxwell, the chief executive of the Scottish FA had said as much before it got switched on, and there were some teething problems, there's no doubt about that.

"But certainly looking at what's happened in England, with the work that Howard Webb has been carrying out, I think there are improvements that can be made.

"Our team are working hard with the Scottish FA and we'll hopefully see improvements in the season ahead and it will be a slightly smoother process than it has been at times this season.

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"Scottish football is all about passion, drama and excitement, hopefully just onfield this season, but it is Scottish football.

"We know there are going to be issues behind the scenes because there always are. But I do certainly hope that we'll see the focus being on on-field matters this season."

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