Here is a simplified version of this year’s key law changes to help prepare clubs, managers, players, referees and spectators for the new season.

Law 3 – The Players

• The temporary amendment giving ‘top’ competitions the option of allowing teams to use up to five substitutes (with limited substitution opportunities) becomes part of Law 3

Law 8 – The Start and Restart of Play

• Clarification that the referee tosses the coin to determine the ‘ends’ and kick-off

Law 10 – Determining the Outcome of a Match

• Clarification that a team official may be cautioned or sent off during kicks from the penalty mark (KFPM)

Law 12 – Fouls and Misconduct

• Clarification about handball offences by the goalkeeper in their own penalty area

Law 12 – Fouls and Misconduct

• Clarification about the position of a free kick awarded when a player leaves the field of play without the referee’s permission and then commits anoffence against an outside agent

Law 14 – The Penalty Kick

• Clarification about the position of the goalkeeper before and when a penalty kick is taken