Premier League referees will reportedly be told to show more leniency over handball decisions following a number of controversial calls at the start of this season.
The Athletic reports that it was agreed at a Premier League meeting on Tuesday that match officials will be "allowed to apply greater subjectivity within the existing rules".
The change apparently comes following talks with the International Football Association Board (IFAB) and will be implemented from this weekend.
The Premier League and the Professional Game Match Officials Board (PGMOL) are said to be unhappy with the number of controversial incidents involving handballs of late.
Tottenham fell foul on one such incident in their 1-1 draw with Newcastle United on Sunday.
A penalty was awarded after Andy Carroll's header struck the arm of Eric Dier from close range, allowing Callum Wilson to score a last-gasp equaliser from the spot.
However, it is suggested that decision would still stand based on the new interpretation of the rules.
"Anything that hits a hand above the head in the box, for example, would still be a penalty," according to The Athletic. "But a deflection off a hand by a player’s side would be viewed differently.
"Proximity and arm position are the key factors in the change."
