The Premier League imposes a number of strict protocols that make the English Premier League competition in the 2019/2020 season look different.
The corona virus pandemic ‘forced’ English League operators to implement new rules when holding matches for the rest of the season.
In addition to holding matches without spectators, other protocols were also prepared in order to decide on the spread of Covid-19 from a professional soccer environment.
Here are 10 strict protocols that make the Premier League look different for the rest of the season.
1. Without supporters at the stadium
Among the most obvious changes was that there were no supporters present. One reason is to prevent the crowd being an important point in social distancing.
Without fans in the stands, there will also be no audience on television. However, there will be a number of differences in the next few matches.
2. The Team Does Not Go Together in the Tunnel
Social distancing guidelines also make the two teams will not be together when in the hall when they want to enter the field. This protocol will be applied in stadiums with possible criteria.
With a stadium that has one tunnel, the visitors will arrive on the field first followed by the host’s lead.
3. No Handshake
When both teams are on the field, shaking hands becomes one of the traditions carried out before the kick-off whistle sounds. But in the current condition the ‘ritual’ is temporarily eliminated.
When the English League song is sung, the players are not in the same line.
4. Reserve Player
Social distance guidance also applies to substitute players. Chairs for substitutes will be separated by a minimum distance of two meters. This condition allows substitutes to be placed in the stands of spectators.
Coaches and assistants who often provide game instructions to their players are also asked to maintain social distance.
5. There is no Ball Boy
There are no ball boys or ball assistants available on the sidelines. Under normal conditions the existence of this ball assistant usually helps get the ball out of the field, so that not much time is wasted.
Therefore, if the ball enters the stands, the referee will decide whether the ball can be taken or the closest player can use one of the balls placed on the sidelines.
6. Physiotherapist Using PPE
In the current situation, physiotherapists are asked to use personal protective equipment (PPE) when providing care in the field. Two paramedics will be available for this condition and the club must provide two stretchers.
7. Water Break
There will be a drinking break in one round of play. This break, commonly called a water break, is given in the middle of each round. The players are also required to drink using a personal bottle.
8. Five Substitute Players
The coach will include five substitute players in the lineup, with five of which can be played in the match. These five substitute players can be included in three occasions, so that at one time each team can replace up to three players.
9. Without Celebration and Confrontation
Each team is prohibited from celebrating a goal when they can break into the opponent’s goal. Not only that, each team was also encouraged not to confront each other, including arguing with the referee.
The match device assigned had also undergone the corona virus test. In addition, the use of VAR is still possible in this competition.
10. Do not spit and clean the nose
The last point confirmed by the Premier League is the ban on spitting and cleaning the nose. Hand sanitation must also be used by all players and coaches both before and after the match.
