Referees could soon be ordered to punish all two-footed challenges with red cards, whether or not there is contract or injury to an opponent.
Recent confusion over the rule has led to professionals in the game coming to the conclusion that a firm line must be taken, and referees' chief Mike Riley is in the process of providing further clarification, according to the Daily Mail.
The rule will also apply even if the ball is won first, in an attempt to clear up the inconsistencies regarding challenges from Manchester City defender Vincent Kompany and Liverpool's Glen Johnson in recent weeks.
FIFA laws state that a sending-off offence, under Law 12, applies when the player has 'far exceeded the necessary force and is in danger of injuring his opponent'.
Written by
Matt Law
Matt Law
