Premier League managers "are backing a rule change" that would see retroactive bans for players who dive. A survey of top-flight bosses carried out by the League Managers Association found that "the majority" were in favor of the disciplinary action "even though they do not believe that the problem of simulation has got worse this season." A "special group has been set up by the FA to look at the proposal" (LONDON TIMES, 2/25).
Scotland's home-based players "are being funded to go full-time as they prepare for the Women's Euro 2017 finals." A package agreed between the Scottish Football Partnership, Sport Scotland and energy firm SSE will "provide finances until the tournament is over." Around "half the squad" is expected to "benefit from the scheme" (BBC, 2/24).
Ligue 1’s disciplinary committee ordered Bastia to close part of its stadium for three matches after a group of supporters shouted racist insults at Nice striker Mario Balotelli during a 1-1 draw in January. The club was also given a suspended one-point deduction (REUTERS, 2/24).