A new season brings with it the spotlight on referees. Even more so with the coming campaign with a raft of new changes and tweaks to the rules from IFAB. Click and scroll through to find out what exactly has changed.
5. Handball (2)
If a player gains control/possession of the ball after it has touches their hand/arm and then scores, or creates a goal-scoring opportunity a free-kick will be awarded. Photo: Pete Norton
6. Substitutions
Players substituted off have to leave the field of play at the nearest point by the touchline/goal line unless the referee indicates otherwise. It is to stop timewasting. Photo: Simon Bellis
7. Goal kick
No longer will the ball have to be played outside the box before it is deemed in play. Players from either side can touch the ball inside the box. Opposition players have to be outside the box when the kick is taken. Photo: JPIMedia
8. Goalkeepers - Penalties
They are required to have at least part of one foot on/in line with the goal line when the kick is taken and cannot stand behind the line. Not allowed to be touching the goalposts/crossbar/nets. Photo: George Wood