The Gaelic Players' Association (GPA) are opposed to three of the five football rule changes proposed by the GAA's Standing Committee.

Having consulted widely with all inter-county football squads and former inter-county players in recent weeks, the players' body came out in favour of the mark and sin bin, but are against the introduction of the handpass restriction, sideline kick and kickout zoning proposals.  

Their findings also found that players believe consideration should be given to the introduction of an additional referee to help apply any new rules of play.

If approved next weekend, the changes will be trialed in the pre-season competitions and the Allianz League.

"The findings of this GPA membership survey are interesting and provide a lot of detailed information for the GAA to examine and to take into account before any decisions are made on the proposed rule changes," GPA chief executive Paul Flynn said in a statement.

"Players are of the view that the handpass restriction, sideline kick and kickout zoning proposed changes won’t work.

"They are, however, in favour of the mark and sin bin rule proposed changes.

"The GPA has presented the survey findings to the GAA with detailed squad feedback and we have made it clear how important it is that the feedback is taken on board before any decisions are made.

"For many squads promotion from the National Football League is their main objective for the season.

"Implementing all of these significant rule changes at this stage, they fear, would disrupt their detailed game plans which have already been developed over the past couple of seasons and it could cost them a promotion," added Flynn.  

"Players are also of the view that consideration should be given to the introduction of an additional referee to help apply any new rules. The GAA must be fair and reasonable in how it decides to move on the proposed rule changes. Players, fans and officials deserve nothing less."

Results of GPA Player survey on Proposed Rule Changes in Gaelic Football

Players against hand pass restriction, sideline kick and kick out zoning proposals

Players in favour of mark and sin bin changes

Click link for full summary 👇🏻https://t.co/GQWxWKeQwB pic.twitter.com/gtxApRdng2

— GPA (@gaelicplayers) November 15, 2018

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