Managers are divided over retrospective diving bans
West Brom manager Tony Pulis has welcomed the prospect of players being retrospectively banned for diving, but Swansea boss Paul Clement claims “it is not the answer”.
The new offence of ‘successful deception of a match official’ will be introduced in England after being approved by shareholders at the Football Association’s annual general meeting at Wembley on Thursday.
Incidents will be reviewed by a panel comprised of an ex-manager, ex-player and an ex-referee, each watching the footage independently. If they are unanimous in believing a player deceived a match official, the sanction will be a two-match ban.
Simulation has been an issue in the game for years and there have been a number of notable cases this season – including Robert Snodgrass’ dive to earn a penalty for Hull against Crystal Palace and other alleged incidents involving the likes of Leroy Sane, Dele Alli and Marcus Rashford.
Baggies boss Pulis believes the changes will be for the good of the game.
“I’m pleased it’s the way forward. I don’t think there’s any place for it in the game,” Pulis said.
“We will soon lose all of that if we get a two-game ban.
“I would most probably fine the players as well and give...