Preimer League Statement On Two Footed Challenges

Watching the highlights of yesterday's Boxing Day matches from the Premiership, I came away with a sense that there are a lot of angry (or stupid) players out there. In addition to some very fine play and terrific goals (see for example Chelsea v. Aston Villa's 4-4 draw), there some very stupid challenges, two footed challenges. At least three players were dismissed from yesterday's matches for two footed challenges. The Premier League leadership issued a statement that a "clamp down" was not in effect, but simply that the referees were applying the rules as stated at the start of the season--two footed challenges will result in a dismissal. That is good news as the tactic is dangerous and silly to boot.