Blatter rules out video replays

FIFA president Sepp Blatter has all but ruled out the introduction of video replays saying he would never allow matches to be halted as long as he remained the most powerful figure in world football.

Speaking at the Soccerex conference in Dubai, Blatter said instant goal-line technology could be used within a year - either by means of a ball with a microchip or a behind-the-goal camera linked to a computer - but he would never permit other controversial decisions being analysed the same way.

Revealing that goal-line technology would be ready for introduction at the Club World Championship in Tokyo in December, 2007, following further experimentation, Blatter added: "I am only talking about goal-line technology here. We have to help referees and have correct control but we must never stop the match with videos or monitors to look at what has happened."

Blatter's remarks will be a major blow to the Premier League who are lobbying FIFA to consider using video technology, supported by a large majority of top-flight managers and coaches following a spate of highly contentious refereeing decisions.

The International FA Board, the game's lawmakers, meet next March in Manchester but Blatter made it clear they will more than likely reject all calls for video replays.

"It would take away the spontaneity and fascination of our game, we must keep football with a human face," said Blatter.

"As long I am president, it will only be goal-line technology. Until I am no longer president, there will be no chance (for video replays)."