Coughing could see players sent off under new rules

Players who deliberately cough at opponents or referees could be shown yellow or even red cards next season following new guidelines issued by the FA amid the ongoing coronavirus outbreak.

The new instructions, which apply to any match where COVID restrictions are in place, come into force immediately and will be applied at all levels of the game.

The FA said action should be taken when 'the referee is certain someone deliberately, and from close range, coughed into the face of an opponent or match official' and the offence would fall under the category of 'using offensive, insulting or abusive language and/or gestures'.

"If the incident was not severe enough to merit a sending-off, a caution could be issued for 'unsporting behaviour - shows a lack of respect for the game'."

The document added that referees must not look to punish 'routine' coughing and should remind players to avoid spitting on the ground, although it is not an act of misconduct.

Meanwhile, the IFAB have now approved the use of five substitutions per game next season but it will be down to individual leagues to decide whether or not to take up the new rules.

The EFL will vote on the matter later this month.