Arsenal’s strength at corners could become even more impactful next season, due to a rule change that has been approved by the International Football Association Board (IFAB).
It has been confirmed by the organisation that following trials, Law 12.2 which states an indirect free kick should be awarded if a goalkeeper holds onto the ball for more than six seconds, is now to be changed.
The change will mean that if goalkeepers hold onto the ball for more than eight second, the referee will now award a corner to the opposing team instead of an indirect free kick. Referees will also use a visual five second countdown before awarding the corner.
The rule has been changed in an attempt to cut down on timewasting with goalkeepers judged to be holding onto the ball for too long. Trials are said to have had a positive impact.
The awarding of corner kicks could be good news for Arsenal, who have earned themselves a reputation over the last couple of seasons for their danger from set pieces.
Goals from corners have been a defining feature of Mikel Arteta’s side. Set piece coach Nicolas Jover has been credited for Arsenal’s danger from corners, the club will hope that they will be able to use their set-piece strength to take advantage of the rule change.
