Premier League referees are set to clamp down on holding and grappling in the penalty area this season, with more spot-kicks likely to be awarded as a result. Howard Webb, head of the Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL), confirmed that officials will adopt a tougher stance on such infractions following discussions with clubs and players.
"We've seen too much holding go unpunished in recent years," Webb stated. "This season, referees will be more proactive in penalising defenders who restrict attackers unfairly."
VAR to Support Referees' Decisions
The Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system will play a crucial role in identifying holding offences that may be missed in real time. Webb emphasised that while referees won't award penalties for "minor contact," clear instances of holding that affect an attacker's movement will be penalised.
Premier League Clubs Briefed on Changes
All 20 Premier League clubs have been informed about the renewed focus on penalising holding. The move comes after feedback from managers and players who argued that excessive holding had become too prevalent during set-pieces.
"We want to promote fair competition," Webb added. "Attackers deserve a fair chance to challenge for the ball without being illegally restrained."
The stricter interpretation is expected to lead to an initial increase in penalties before players and defenders adapt to the new enforcement standards.
