Virgin Media has confirmed plans to launch an online application allowing users to access statistics and social media features while watching Premier League games.

The app, titled Sofa Stadium, is designed to enable football fans to “enjoy the atmosphere of match day without obstructed views, overpriced car parking, cold weather and dodgy grub”.

Utilising a multi-screen approach, the app will allow supporters to keep track of what people are saying about matches on Twitter through Tweet Watch, while also monitoring related comments posted on Facebook and other social networks.

Fans will be able to access a range of statistics while watching games live on television, as well as vote in real time on player performance or refereeing decisions.

The free app will become available for download tomorrow from the Sofa Stadium website to coincide with the first day of the new Premier League season.

This year, Virgin Media is also offering its cable television subscribers high definition versions of Sky Sports 1 and Sky Sports 2 for the first time as part of a carriage deal with Sky.

Virgin Media executive director of digital entertainment Cindy Rose said: “Sofa Stadium is the perfect place for armchair supporters, commentators and managers alike to get actively involved in football, and a brilliant way to bring together the multi-screen entertainment experience.

“A perfect companion for fans looking to get the most of their football experience, Sofa Stadium provides an incredible way to enjoy the beautiful game, especially with Sky Sports now available in HD on Virgin Media.”

Sofa Stadium will be available to on its own dedicated site at www.sofastadium.co.uk as of the start of the Premier League season today - Saturday 14 August. The first match will be Tottenham vs Manchester City.

Sources: digitalspy.co.uk and pocket-link.com

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