What is the new handball rule this season, and what other new rules will be in the Premier League? – The Sun

THE handball rule has received a 2019 makeover for the new Premier League season.

After carnage at the Women's World Cup following Fifa's new guidelines, Prem bosses hope that their new rules are clear enough for refs, fans and players to all understand.

What is the new handball rule this season?

  • The rules have been further defined to help determine what is a handball and which isn't.
  • A player is seen to have committed a handball if their arm is in an unnatural position, including having their hands behind their back.
  • Handball will be given if the ball strikes any hand which is over shoulder height.
  • But former whistler Mike Reilly has assured fans that the ball-to-hand decisions we saw this summer in France will NOT be given as spot-kicks in the Premier League.

What other new rules will be in the Premier League?

PENALTIES

This is not new to many but just to make it clearer in the eyes of the law.

Goalkeepers must have at least one foot on the goalline when a penalty kick is being taken.

CARDS FOR COACHES

This rule is not a new one for those in the Football League, but is for the Premier League.

Red cards can be dished out to coaches for kicking or throwing a water bottle, with it being seen as a violent action.

This is along with any offensive, insulting or abusive language or gesturing.

SUBSTITUTES

A player must now exit the pitch when being taken off at the nearest touchline.

This can be anywhere on the pitch, so they will be forced to walk behind goals and around the edge to return to the dugout.

The exceptions are when a player is injured or being stretchered off, then they can head straight for the tunnel where the medical room is normally held.

Or if a player would have to walk in front of visiting supporters where they may be abused.

DROPPED BALL

The contested drop balls have been taken away, with the ball now going to the team that played it last before the stoppage.

The exception is when in the penalty area, where the ball is automatically given to the goalkeepers.

BALL HITTING A REFEREE

On many occasions, this rule will not be used when a ball accidentally hits a referee.

But if a team gains a significant advantage from it, then a drop ball will be used.

COIN TOSS

Captains can now determine which end to attack or even if they want to kick off first.

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