In the build up to the Premier League campaign of 2017/18, the Premier League have detailed a raft of new measures.
PremierLeague.com are announcing ten new changes as the big kick off news, and having already announced changes to the style of shirt numbers and names, we get to two particularly interesting ones.
From this year, players guilty of simulation or feigning injury will receive an automatic two match suspension.
Footage from fixtures will be reviewed each Monday and a three man panel comprised of a former match official, a former manager and an ex player will come to a decision on whether or not a punishment is deserved in any given situation.
The Football Association will only impose a ban if the panel’s decision is unanimous – in cases where that deception proves to be the case, the yellow or red card given to the opposing player will be automatically rescinded.
It’s also been confirmed that fancy pitch designs will be banned.
Pitch patterns and designs will no longer be allowed in the top flight from this year as rules now state that the playing surface must contain no markings other than that traditional horizontal and white lines.
The amendment brings the Premier League into line with UEFA’s regulations and the change has been made in conjunction with Premier League club groundsmen apparently.
Leicester City and Southampton are two clubs in particular who received plaudits for their designs.
Premier League pitch patterns have been banned from this season 😕 @LCFC ‘s groundsman must be gutted #SpoilSports #PicsssoOfThePitch pic.twitter.com/o5O2To7Eud
? Samantha Quek (@SamanthaQuek) August 2, 2017
Wondering how @adgray13 and his team could top last weekend’s pitch design? Here’s the answer… #saintsfc pic.twitter.com/8WxZYn5m70
? Southampton FC (@SouthamptonFC) May 1, 2014
I have to agree with these new guidelines,positive steps.All too often over the years we have witnessed diving causing both penalties and players red carded,these new rules will cause those who do offend to reconsider their game. I also agree with pitch markings,they should only have the necessary lines,anything more can be distracting,