Bizarre new rule set to hit long-throw specialists next season as football chiefs try to get play started
Next season, EFL players who excel at throwing the ball over long distances will no longer be allowed to use towels to dry it.
This rule change was approved by club leaders during their yearly gathering, where they also officially introduced the use of “multiball” to expedite the start of play.
In a statement after the meeting, where club bosses gave chief executive Rick Parry a new three-year mandate, a spokesman said: “The EFL will introduce a multiball system in all its competitions for the 2023/24 season.
“Match balls will be placed on cones in designated areas at pitch side to help increase the time of the ball being in play.
“Meanwhile, Clubs will no longer be permitted to use towels or other articles, including items obtained from spectators to dry footballs during matches.”
The clubs in the EFL have reached an agreement to adopt a similar, reformed, and strengthened Owners’ and Directors Test, following the example set by the Premier League. This decision aims to prevent unscrupulous individuals from getting involved in the sport as executives.
If clubs in the EFL consistently fail to make timely payments for HMRC debts, they will face a ban on transfers for a duration of 18 months.
In cases where a club accumulates 30 days or more of late payments within a 12-month period, they will be prohibited from signing players for a fee or any form of compensation for three consecutive transfer windows.
During the meeting, Sports Minister Stuart Andrew addressed the attendees and reiterated the warning to Premier League clubs that government intervention may be necessary if a new financial agreement with the EFL is not promptly reached.
There continues to be a significant disagreement between the leaders of the Premier League and the EFL regarding various matters, including parachute payments. Rick Parry, the head of the EFL, is advocating for 25% of the Premier League’s television income to be allocated to EFL clubs.
The Minister said: “We want a thriving football pyramid, and more money must flow through the game to make this happen.
“It remains our firm belief that the best solution is a football led one and I am hopeful that the resolution will be found soon.
“I would urge both sides to reach a deal as soon as possible. It is in the game’s interests to avoid the risk of further financial uncertainty.
“If one is not found the Regulator will have a backstop power to intervene and force a solution.”
Bizarre new rule set to hit long-throw specialists next season as football chiefs try to get play started
