THE use of vanishing spray is set to be rolled out across the Football League from January 1.

First seen at the World Cup 2014 in Brazil, the method of preventing encroachment at free kicks has been in place in the Premier League since the start of the season.

Following a trial run in the Johnstone's Paint Trophy, all three divisions, including the Championship, will follow suit at the turn of the year.

A statement from the Football League read: “The Football League is to introduce the use of vanishing spray by referees into its competitions from January 1, 2015 following a successful trial in the early rounds of this season's Johnstone's Paint Trophy.

“Having received positive feedback from clubs, referees and supporters, the League has instructed the Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL) to begin using the product in all matches played in the Sky Bet Football League, Capital One Cup and Johnstone's Paint Trophy from the mid-point of the current campaign.”