The Classic 'Drop Ball' Will Never Be Used In The Premier League Again

The Premier League are set to enforce seven new rules ahead of the 2019/20 season, including the departure of fan favourite the drop ball.

Basically, a drop ball is used when play has been stopped due to reasons other than normal gameplay, fouls, or misconduct.

The referee drops the ball at the place where it was located when play was stopped and madness ensues.

Image: PA

We have witnessed some hotly contested 'drop ball' situations down the years, including the time a skinhead Wayne Rooney produced two leg breaking challenges on George Boateng and Andy Dawson against Hull City.

But the rule will no longer feature in the Premier League as of next season.

The ball will now be dropped to a player on the team that last touched the ball, and where they touched it last.

Image: PA

That means if a team's attack is stopped, they will get the ball back in that position, instead of the opponents booting the ball down the field, according to BBC.

Here are the other rules that are set to feature in this season's Premier League:

1. Handballs inside the area.

Goals that have struck a player's hand will NOT be allowed. Regardless of intention.

If the ball touches a player's arm in the build up to a goal, accidental or not, the goal will not count.

2. Substituted players can leave the field anywhere.

To prevent time wasting, a substituted player can leave the field of play at the nearest point.

They'll no longer have to leave the pitch at the halfway line.

Image: PA

3. No attacking players in the wall.

Attacking players will not be allowed to stand in the wall. The wall can only be made up of players from the defending team.

4. Drop balls

As of next season, the last team to touch the ball will be given it back by the opposition.

Whether that team decides to give the back back will be completely up to them.

5. Goalkeeper's and penalties

Touching of the goal frame and movement are all banned.

Image: PA

6. Coaches will receive cards.

Managers and coaches will be able to receive yellow and red cards as players do.

7. Celebrations

A player can be booked for their celebration even if the goal is disallowed.

Thoughts on the new rules? Are you sad the drop ball is no more?

Let us know in the comments below.

Topics: Football News, Football

Jack Kenmare

Jack Kenmare is a writer at SPORTbible. He's interviewed some of the biggest names in sport, including Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Pele, Carles Puyol and Tim Henman. He dabbles in all things sport but football is his biggest passion. He was once hit in the head by a wayward strike from Nicky Butt and lived to tell the tale.

@jackkenmare_