Premier League players may face penalties for their goal celebrations under a new crackdown on player conduct.

Premier League players could face punishment for certain goal celebrations as officials plan a new crackdown on behavior deemed provocative or disrespectful.

In recent weeks, top-flight stars have drawn criticism for celebrations that taunt opponents and provoke fans. For example, Jamie Vardy mocked Tottenham supporters last month over their lack of Premier League titles. The clampdown began last week when Everton’s Iliman Ndiaye was booked for imitating a seagull in front of Brighton fans after scoring. Meanwhile, Arsenal’s Myles Lewis-Skelly risked provoking Erling Haaland by copying his signature celebration during Arsenal’s 5-1 win over Manchester City, though he was not cautioned.

Premier League chief football officer Tony Scholes addressed the issue, stating that while celebrations are an enjoyable part of the game, a line is crossed when they become mocking or critical. Speaking to Sky Sports, he said, “Some celebrations are entertaining, but once they cross into mockery or criticism, we need to take action.”

This follows previous incidents where players have been accused of inciting opponents, such as Neal Maupay mimicking James Maddison’s darts-throwing celebration last year, sparking a social media feud. Lewis-Skelly’s gesture against City was seen as retaliation after Haaland allegedly shouted “Who the f** are you?”* at him in the reverse fixture, which ended 2-2.

Sky Sports pundit Jamie Carragher criticized Lewis-Skelly’s behavior, praising Arsenal captain Declan Rice for pulling him up and encouraging him to stay focused. “As a young player, you can get carried away,” Carragher said. “It’s a big moment, but Rice was right to get him back in pos

ition.”