Referees have reportedly been told to use common sense with their interpretation of a new law over where substituted players should leave the pitch, following an incident with Patrick Bamford at Millwall this weekend.
A new law came into play this season that states players "must leave by the nearest point on the boundary line" when they are substituted, in an effort to clamp down on time-wasting.
This means that players are now required to leave the pitch and walk around to the tunnel or dugout - and that is what exactly Bamford did at The Den when he was replaced after 62 minutes.
The Leeds United striker left the pitch behind the goal Leeds were attacking in the second half, making his way past the visiting fans in that stand before walking past home supporters on his way to the bench.
A number of Millwall fans gestured and spat at Bamford, who exchanged words with suppoters.
The Times now report that the referees' body Professional Game Match Officials Board (PGMOL) have told referees not to enforce this law if there is any concern that the substituted player could be a target for home fans.
Hampshire Police asked the officials in last month's Portsmouth versus Southampton Carabao Cup tie at Fratton Park not to enforce the law.
Visit our dedicated Leeds United page for the latest news, views and analysis from Elland Road.
