World Cup may see throw-in, goal-kick countdowns to aid game tempo

"Countdowns on throw-ins and goal kicks plus 10-second time limits on substitutions could feature at this summer's World Cup as the game's lawmakers seek to keep the tempo of matches flowing. The introduction of an eight-second limit for goalkeepers to release the ball from hand has been positively received and now the International Football Association Board (IFAB) is working to extend the countdown principle to other areas of play."

"Referees are set to be empowered to impose a five-second countdown on dead ball goal kicks and on throw-ins if they feel a player is taking too long. Substitutions have been identified as another area where teams seek to disrupt tempo and these could be limited to 10 seconds, with substitutes barred from entering the field for a period of time -- potentially a minute -- if the 10-second limit is exceeded."

"We all get frustrated when we see a game stopped, and we're [all] suspicious if the game has been stopped for the right reasons, [or if it has been] done for tactical reasons, and so on. So we really wanted to focus on that, certainly this year, and we've got a number of measures that I think will make the game much better."

IFAB intends to expand countdown timers beyond the eight-second goalkeeper release to include five-second limits for dead-ball goal kicks and throw-ins to speed play. Substitutions could face a 10-second entry limit with penalties such as temporary bans if teams exceed the allowance. Injured players may be required to remain off the field for a fixed period to deter tactical stoppages. Competitions could allow VAR review of red cards arising from factually incorrect second yellow cards and wrongful team penalisation. Competitions may also be given the option to review corners provided restarts are not delayed. Measures could apply at the World Cup.

Read at ESPN.com