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English Football Approves Trial to Tackle Goalkeeper Tactical Timeouts
English football will trial a new rule requiring an outfield player to leave the pitch whenever play is stopped for goalkeeper treatment, in an attempt to remove the tactical advantage created by manufactured injury breaks.
The Ref’s News · 28 July 2026
English football will introduce a new trial designed to stop teams using goalkeeper injuries as unofficial tactical timeouts.
The measure has been approved by the International Football Association Board and will operate throughout the 2026–27 season across the Premier League, English Football League, National League and the leading women’s competitions.
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