Football fans share top 20 ideas on improving the game
Football fans have revealed the changes they would make to improve the sport if given the chance, and the suggestions range from nostalgic rule revivals to radical new ideas. While many are calling for traditional 3pm kick-offs to be broadcast on TV, some argue there's already too much football on our screens – with one divisive proposal suggesting the Europa Conference League should be scrapped from television schedules entirely.
The research, commissioned by OLBG, also uncovered more practical suggestions. Introducing salary caps and a stop clock to better track injury time are among the ideas gaining widespread support. Replacing throw-ins with "kick-ins" or even getting rid of the offside rule altogether was also proposed.
As the rules of football have evolved over the decades, certain fans would like to see outdated traditions make a return, such as the Golden Goal which one in 10 believe should be brought back.
Additionally, while current rules allow up to five substitutes per match, one in four fans believe this should be reduced back to three.
Jake Ashton, a football betting expert at OLBG, commented on the findings, saying: "Football gets fans going and people spend lots of time and money following their favourite team.
"With the rules often evolving, it's great to see what fans would want introduced if they were given the opportunity to take charge. While we know lots on the list will never come to pass, there is definitely a case for some of them."
The survey of 2,000 football fans also revealed some interesting insights into how people engage with the modern game. A quarter admit they've never attended a live match, while three-quarters prefer watching on TV.
Television not only remains fans' favourite way to follow matches but according to the survey it is also the leading source of football news, followed by online articles and social media.
Despite technological advancements aimed at enhancing the viewing experience, many fans feel the sport doesn't need extra entertainment bolted on.
Over half are against ideas like introducing NFL-style halftime shows to football. Meanwhile, seven in 10 fans believe the game has become overly commercialised and would prefer it to reflect its more traditional roots.
Jake Ashton added: 'Whether fans can get to the grounds or choose to watch football on TV, its important they always get a good experience.
'With a large portion of those who love the game agreeing it would be better sticking more to its roots, it shows the sport doesn't always need these over complicated rule changes. This is something rule makers should keep in mind – sometimes less is more.'
TOP 20 RULES FANS WOULD LIKE TO SEE IMPLEMENTED IN FOOTBALL:
Salary cap on players
3pm kick-offs televised
A stop clock to make sure injury time is accurate
Red card to anyone who dives
Stricter spending cap on clubs
Referees have to wear microphones
Change the rules around handball to make it simpler
No more VAR
Introduce sin bins
Give penalties against teams who argue with the referee
Get rid of transfer windows and let players move whenever they want
The player fouled must take the penalty
Bonus points if team scores 4 or more goals in a game
Make it so clubs have to include a certain number of youth players in their starting line up
Bring back golden goal
Allow people to drink alcohol in the stands
No offsides
Unlimited subs
Allow kick-ins instead of throw-ins
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