Newcastle United’s defeat to Arsenal, however, largely went by without any major incidents. Yet, not only has there been the introduction of VAR there are also a number of rule changes which have also been implemented. Changes which fans should know about. Scroll through to get yourself familiar with the tweaks.
1. Handball (1)
A free kick will be awarded if the ball goes into the goal after touching an attacking player’s hand/arm even if accidental. Photo: Matthew Lewis
2. 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: Chris Brunskill
3. Handball (3)
A free-kick or penalty will be awarded if the ball touches a player’s hand/arm which has made their body unnaturally bigger. Photo: Stu Forster
4. Handball (4)
If the ball touches a player’s hand/arm when it is above their shoulder (unless the player has deliberately played the ball which then touches their hand/arm) a penalty or free-kick will be given. Photo: Mark Runnacles