Referee William Torres marks the pitch as Lionel Messi watches on during the World Cup. EMPICS Sport EMPICS Sport

THE PREMIER LEAGUE has announced that it will introduce referee’s vanishing spray ahead of the upcoming season.

The foam, which is used to draw lines to prevent defensive walls encroaching and around the ball during free-kicks, was invented by Heine Allemagne and used in the Brazilian league for a number of years before making its World Cup debut this summer.

In a statement which reveals that the spray will be introduced to all English top flight matches from the start of the 2014/15 campaign, Premier League chief executive Richard Scudamore said: “At the Premier League we are open to developments that enhance the competition and it was clear from watching the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil that Vanishing Spray benefitted referees, players, and all of those who watched the matches.

“Having witnessed that, and following consultation with our clubs and the PGMOL, we have decided to introduce it in the Barclays Premier League and look forward to having it in place for the 2014/15 season.”

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