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.
5. Handball (5)
A free-kick or penalty WON'T be awarded if a player is falling and the ball touches their hand/arm when it is between their body and the ground to support the body, but not extended to make the body bigger. Photo: Catherine Ivill
6. 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: Getty
7. 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: Stu Forster
8. Drop ball
There will no longer be drop balls. If play is stopped inside the penalty area the ball will be dropped to the goalkeeper. Outside the box it goes to a member of the team who last touched the ball at the point it was played. Photo: Pete Norton