DIMITAR BERBATOV has admitted he is pleased with the new rule changes in football, unlike Manchester United defender Raphael Varane.
Last month, the Premier League launched a new approach in a bid to cut down on time wasting during games.
The rule changes will see an increase of time added onto the end of every game to compensate for when the ball is not in play.
It means that there will be more on-pitch action for fans to enjoy, which is something Berbatov is excited about.
Speaking to Betfair, the former Man Utd, Tottenham and Fulham striker said: “So far, we’ve seen lots of added on time in matches. To be honest, I’m in favour of the new added time rules.
“Sometimes in games, the actual playing is not what people expect it to be. If you calculate it, around 50 minutes is probably played in an average 90-minute game, with all the fouls and breaks in the match.
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“I think the players will like it, obviously when you’re winning 1-0 and holding onto a lead late in the game, then the players won’t like it.
“At the end of the day, I think people want to watch more football, so I’m okay with it.
“The amount of time the ball is stopped during a game has to be compensated, and the only way is with additional time.
“With this, I think players will have to stop wasting time.”
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But while Berbatov is hopeful that the new rules will make football more exciting for fans, Varane has been very critical of them.
The defender believes the increase in match time could be “damaging” to players and the game.
He tweeted: “We had a meeting last week with the FA. They recommended from the referees new decisions and rules.
“From the managers and players, we have shared our concerns for many years now that there are too many games, the schedule is overcrowded, and it’s at a dangerous level for players physical and mental well-being.
“Despite our previous feedbacks, they have now recommended for next season: longer games, more intensity, and less emotions to be shown by players. We just want to be in good condition on the pitch to give 100% to our club and fans. Why are our opinions not being heard?
“As a player I feel very privileged to do the job I love every day but I feel these changes are damaging our game. We want to be at our maximum level, the best we can be and put on amazing performances for fans to celebrate every week.
“I believe it is important that we, players and managers, highlight these important issues as we want to protect the game we love and give the fans our best.”
Men’s football got its first taste of the new rules during the Community Shield between Arsenal and Manchester City on Sunday.
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Betfair is launching a new product ahead of the 2023/24 season called 90 Minute Payout, where the match result at 90:00 will stick even if your team concedes in injury time.
If your team is losing in injury time but scores two late goals, your bet will still win, but you now have the added insurance of 90 Minute Payout if your team is already winning on 90 minutes, with your bet being paid out no matter what happens in added time.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
