By Martin Graham
Aston Villa have been ordered to pay £125,000 after admitting to breaking the top-flight’s rules on the use of multiple balls in five different fixtures last season.
League officials confirmed that Villa accepted the breaches, which involved the actions of ball assistants during games at Villa Park.
Misuse of ball system
According to the investigation, helpers around the pitch were seen passing balls directly to Villa players rather than leaving them on the designated cones, as the rules require.
In several matches, extra balls were placed for Villa players to take corners, giving them quicker restarts. On one occasion, an additional ball was thrown on the field while the opposing goalkeeper already had possession and was preparing for a goal kick.
The league stressed that the system must be applied consistently and fairly, warning that no club should be allowed to gain an edge through improper use.
Punishment imposed
As part of the sanction, Villa will also be barred from using the multi-ball system in their opening three home league fixtures of the 2025/26 season.
The Premier League described adherence to the guidance as “vital” for fairness and uniformity across matches.
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