SFA to trial concussion substitutes in Scottish Cup 'at earliest opportunity'

The Scottish FA will allow clubs to make extra concussion substitutes in the Scottish Cup after the game’s lawmakers gave approval for trials to take place.

The Scottish FA will trial concussions substitutes in the Scottish Cup. (Photo by Craig Foy / SNS Group)

The International Football Association Board (IFAB) has given the green light for any player with an actual or suspected concussion to be immediately removed from the match and replaced by a substitute.

Trials can start from next month, IFAB said, with the SFA confirming it will begin the application process to introduce the concussion substitute trial in the Scottish Cup at the earliest possible opportunity.

John MacLean, Scottish FA Chief Medical Consultant: “This is an important step in the progress that is being made across sport surrounding head injuries. The introduction of a permanent concussion substitute in football would build on Scotland’s world-leading approach on the subject of head injury and trauma in sport.

“Implementing the trial in the Scottish Cup will in turn provide invaluable data to inform a wider implementation plan for Scottish football.”

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