When dealing with disciplinary issues, eye contact and a basic discreet hand signal from the AR to the referee may be sufficient. The AAR is not allowed to enter the field of play unless there are exceptional circumstances. The AAR position is behind the goal line except where it is necessary to move onto the goal line to judge a goal/no goal situation. This is especially important when judging offside as it gives the AR a better line of vision. Side-to-side movement should be used for short distances. The AR must always face the field of play, even when running. The AR must be in line with the second-last defender or the ball if it is nearer to the goal line than the second-last defender.

Positioning of assistant referees and additional assistant referees Offences occurring after the ball is played away Possible offences in the area towards which play is moving The referee should also pay attention to: ‘What needs to be seen’ is not always in the vicinity of the ball. The referee should be close enough to see play without interfering with play Staying towards the outside of the play makes it easier to keep play and the lead AR in the referee’s field of vision The lead AR should be in the referee’s field of vision so the referee should usually use a wide diagonal system The play should be between the referee and the lead AR These areas may be larger, smaller or differently shaped depending on the exact match circumstances. The recommended positions are areas within which the referee is likely to be most effective.

The positions recommended in the graphics are basic guidelines. All recommendations about positioning must be adjusted using specific information about the teams, the players and events in the match. The best position is one from which the referee can make the correct decision.

Soccer tactics corner kicks board