Former Nottingham Forest defender Gregor Robertson believes that Arsene Wenger's proposal to replace throw-ins with kick-ins could have a positive impact on football.
The International FA Board (IFAB) has agreed to trial kick-ins as part of an attempt to speed up the game. Football's lawmakers will allow tests to take place after the former Arsenal boss and current head of global football development for FIFA suggested that players should have up to five seconds to kick the ball rather than throw it.
The trial is expected to take place in English amateur football next season. IFAB have also agreed to allow the trialling of body cams for referees in grassroots football to deter on-field assaults, which was proposed by the Football Association.
READ MORE: Nottingham Forest goalie makes honest admission amid 'uncertainty' over Reds future
SEE ALSO: Neil Warnock sends stern message after Nottingham Forest Wembley drama
Robertson thinks that Wenger's intention with the proposed new rule is to get the ball back in play quickly with short five or ten yard passes, but that it could have "unintended consequences". He points out that elite teams like Liverpool or Man City would use it as a "fast route to goal", but doesn't necessarily think that's a bad thing.
"It would force defenders to be ready to run back towards their own goal, which in turn would open up pockets of space in front of them," he wrote for The Times.
"It would reward the quick-minded and the skilful. And would a few less throw-ins really be something to mourn?"
Robertson made 44 appearances for Forest during a three-year stint at the City Ground in the noughties. He was released by manager Gary Megson in 2005.
Would you like to see kick-ins replace throw-ins? Have your say in the comments!
READ MORE: French club have 'made a bid' for Nottingham Forest goalkeeper
SEE ALSO: Nottingham Forest have 'greater chance' of completing Aston Villa transfer
