Premier League: Head-to-head results to be used to separate teams in new rule

The 2019/20 Premier League season is officially set to kick off on Friday, August 9, with last season's runners-up Liverpool set to curtain raise the new campaign with a mouthwatering clash against Norwich.

Liverpool finished second behind Man City, with the Pep Guardiola-led side beating the Reds by a single point to reclaim the domestic title.

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With other top sides including Man United, Chelsea, Arsenal and Tottenham hoping to perform better next season, the league has confirmed introduction of a new rule that will guide the EPL.

According to the new rule announced on Sunday, July 14, clubs finishing level in the table will have their results against each other compared to decide who finishes highest.

For instance, if two or more clubs finish level on points when contesting for the title, Champions League or Europa League slot, or battling relegation, their head-to-head records will be used to separate them.

As such, the team who have collected the most points in the head-to-head clashes between the sides lying level on points, goal difference and number of goals scored, will take the highest finishing position.

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"In previous seasons, teams involved in these specific battles who finished with the same points total, goal difference and number of goals scored would be pitted against each other in a playoff," a statement by the Premier League said.

"But that extra match is now less likely," the statement declared.

But what happens if the two contesting teams still finish level when the above factors are considered?

Well, it is only then when a playoff will be arranged, at a neutral ground, with the format, timing and venue being determined by the Premier League Board.

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