The Premier League are taking steps to stop the illegal streaming of matches in Ireland after winning a High Court action in the UK.

The UK order will mean internet service providers will be forced to block servers which are hosting live footage of fixtures and will run for the length of the 2017/18 season.

While streams in Ireland will not be affected, Independent.ie understands that the Premier League is currently engaging with all Irish internet service providers with a view to taking similar action here.

Earlier this year, Motion Pictures secured injunctions against Irish internet service providers to block access to websites illegally streaming films.

Premier League director of legal services Kevin Plumb hailed the High Court order as a "game changer".

He said: "It will allow us to quickly and effectively block and disrupt the illegal broadcast of Premier League football via any means, including so called 'pre-loaded Kodi boxes'.

"The protection of our copyright, and the investment made by our broadcast partners, is hugely important to the Premier League and the future health of English football.

"The ability that clubs have to develop and acquire talented players, to build and improve stadiums, and to support communities and schools is all predicated on being able to market, sell and protect commercial rights."

Additional reporting from PA

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