Football Laws: Wider VAR range and more World Cup countdown

A series of measures were also approved to address “rhythm disturbance” and “wasted time”.

Following the success of the eight-second time limit imposed on goalkeepers when they release the ball while it is in their hands, the countdown will now apply to players taking goal kicks and throw-ins.

If a player takes too long, possession will switch to the opponent, meaning a goal kick could become a corner, or a throw could go to the opponent.

Two other provisions were added to the laws after successful experiments in the American Football League in recent seasons.

The substituted player must leave the field within 10 seconds, and if he fails to do so, his substitute will not be able to enter immediately. Their team must play with one player down for at least 60 seconds and until the ball is out after that.

Players who go out injured will also have to sit out for an extended period – doubling the Premier League’s 30-second regulation to one minute.

FIFA tested two minutes – also used in Major League Soccer – in the Arab Cup in December, but the leagues had concerns about unintended consequences such as a player having to leave the field when injured and their team conceding a goal.

There will be exceptions, including when an opposition player is cautioned or sent off, if a substitution is made, or if a player is to receive a penalty kick.

The law will not apply to goalkeepers, and no solution has been agreed to the “tactical timeout” seen as the scourge of the modern game.

The IFAB technical committees have discussed the issue at length, but there is no common ground for an effective solution.

A motion to remove a player from the field was proposed but rejected. It was felt that this might cause the injured goalkeeper not to seek treatment for fear of hindering his team.

The International Football Association Board (IFAB) decided to conduct experiments to further evaluate the problem and suggest options as a deterrent.

Elsewhere, ‘captain’s only’ guidelines covering who can speak to the referee, and clarification of the ‘double touch’ penalty have been added to the rules.

A modification has also been made to allow players to attach jewels if they cannot be removed from their bodies.