What is the new penalty rule involving goalkeepers and what other new rules will be in the Premier League?

THE new Premier League season is here – and there’s changes afoot.

After Fifa rolled out a number of revisions to their guidelines earlier this summer, Prem bosses have followed suit – but there’s a few key differences.

What is the new penalty rule involving goalkeepers?

• Goalkeepers must have at least one foot on the goalline when a penalty kick is being taken.
• But VAR will NOT be consulted on whether or not the keeper did stay in position.
• This will be the sole job of the on-field officials.
• VAR will only get involved at a penalty if the player taking it double-hits the ball, if the kicker feigns at the point of the kick or if there’s an encroachment that has a direct impact on the outcome of the penalty.

What other new rules will be in the Premier League?

FREE KICKS

When there are three or more players in a wall, no players from the opposing team can be in to distract and open a gap for their teammate to shoot through.

Opponents will now have to be a metre away from the wall.

Another change is that referees can allow quick free-kicks to be taken, even when a yellow card is to be handed out.

This would only happen if there is a goalscoring opportunity available.

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.

HANDBALL

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.

Another example is for them to be above shoulder height.

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.

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.