The International Football Association Board (IFAB) may change a disciplinary measure for goalkeepers who take their time.
Ednews informs via ESPN that a free kick is now awarded if the goalkeeper holds the ball in his hands for more than six seconds. Referees almost never sanction players for this offense because they believe the punishment is too severe.
It is now proposed that the goalkeeper be allowed to hold the ball in his hands for eight seconds. The referee will start counting the time when the goalkeeper fixes the ball. The referee will count the last three seconds with his hand raised. The first time the referee will verbally warn the goalkeeper. If the goalkeeper does not put the ball into play for the second time after the deadline, the referee will award a corner kick or throw-in on the same line as the penalty spot.
