Liverpool facing major rule change as Premier League ready to take action

The Premier League has formally requested permission from IFAB to trial temporary concussion substitutes, with backing from the EFL, PFA, and 28 other leagues worldwide

Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konate having a concussion check in 2022(Image: Getty Images)

The Premier League is pushing for the introduction of concussion substitutes as part of a rule change and will seek explanations if their proposal is turned down.

The league has officially written to football's governing body, IFAB (International Football Association Board), requesting permission to trial temporary concussion substitutes. The EFL (English Football League) and the PFA (Professional Footballers' Association) are in support of these proposed changes, which fundamentally aim to enhance player safety.

Alongside the Premier League, an additional 28 leagues, including Serie A, Ligue 1, and the MLS (Major League Soccer), have signed a separate letter endorsing the introduction of this rule as part of a trial.

IFAB had previously dismissed the idea, stating they were focusing on trialling permanent concussion substitutions.

Temporary concussion substitutes would allow a player to exit the pitch for a set duration – likely 10 or 15 minutes – for private assessment.

If the individual passes the medical checks conducted behind closed doors, they would be permitted to return to the game.

Lucas Bergvall was forced out of a game following a concussion check earlier this season(Image: Getty Images)

The Premier League has already taken measures to ensure that temporary concussion substitutes cannot be exploited by teams seeking an unfair advantage, according to the Daily Mail.

This includes allowing the opposing team to make an extra substitution whenever one is used, ensuring both teams have the same number of subs. Video footage of any incidents would also be reviewed.

Studies have revealed that in men's football, between 27 and 53 percent of players diagnosed with concussion are not immediately taken off the pitch. This is a stark contrast to other sports, which have seen health improvements and reduced further injury risks.

In rugby union, the percentage of players returning to play with a concussion issue dropped from 58 percent to just eight percent.

Similarly, a study last year discovered that healthcare professionals in football lack sufficient time to conduct a comprehensive concussion check on the pitch - necessitating the removal of a player for the required tests.

Back in November, Tottenham's Lucas Bergvall was visibly frustrated when he had to be substituted due to a concussion during a match against Chelsea. The 19-year-old was forced to leave the pitch after seven minutes following a blow to his head from a clearance by Enzo Fernandez in the fourth minute.

Despite his eagerness to continue, he was replaced after Tottenham's medical staff conducted a concussion test.

IFAB will convene its Annual Business Meeting on Tuesday, where this issue is likely to be discussed. It is understood that other game-related issues, such as players feigning injury and delays caused by throw-ins, will also be on the agenda.