Keith Hackett delighted by Premier League rule change set to impact Tottenham
Tottenham players will have to watch their behaviour on the pitch next season after a major Premier League rule change was announced.
It has been a difficult Premier League season for Ange Postecoglou, who saw his team slip to 17th after a 2-0 defeat to Crystal Palace at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Sunday (11 May).
The 59-year-old currently has his sights set elsewhere, as Tottenham prepare for the UEFA Europa League final against Manchester United at the Estadio de San Mamés on Wednesday (21 May).
However, if still leading this Spurs side next season, Postecoglou will need to ensure his players become well acquainted with a new rule set to arrive in the Premier League.
Premier League to introduce captains-only rule
Tottenham players will need to be mindful of their on-field behaviour next year as it will become that much easier to pick up yellow cards.
As reported by The Telegraph (15 May), the Premier League will introduce the captains-only rule next season when it comes to speaking with the referee during the game, which has been tried and tested in UEFA competitions this season.
| 2024/25 | Yellow Cards | Red Cards | Fouls | Offsides |
| Tottenham | 65 | 1 | 224 | 62 |
Clubs are expected to approve the decision at the Premier League annual general meeting next month, and it is hoped the Football League [EFL] will also ratify the new protocol.
All players on the pitch will still be able to speak to the officials. However, dialogue around the big moments in matches will be reserved for the two captains.
Speaking exclusively to Tottenham News, ex-FIFA official Keith Hackett admits that he is pleased with the rule change.
“I am delighted that the PGMOL and the Premier League are introducing a new protocol that only the captain of the team can speak to the referee,” Hackett said.
“Each team must have a captain on the field of play who wears an identifying armband. The team captain has no special status or privileges but has a degree of responsibility for the behaviour of the team.
“For this to have an impact, a firm approach must be taken by the referee if he is surrounded by protesting players. I suggest that they need to be strong and issue yellow cards when appropriate.”
Tottenham will benefit from the new rule
While it is understandable that many will be uncertain about this new protocol, ultimately, it is a good thing for the Premier League and Tottenham.
It could be the middle of an intense Premier League game, emotions are running high, and the referee, in the heat of the moment, makes a decision that is unfavourable for Spurs.
The next thing you know, three, four, five players are surrounding him and the referee reaches into his pocket, handing out a series of yellow cards; several Tottenham players are one booking closer to a suspension.
Thus, this is a decision that not only will allow for a more subdued atmosphere, but if done correctly, could see Tottenham players on the pitch for longer.