The Sport Matrix: Friday 27 September 2013

Taylor wants Fifa to act over 'hybrid' boots issues

Gordon Taylor, the chief executive of the Professional Footballers' Association, has urged Fifa and boot manufacturers to introduce new safety regulations on "hybrid" boots in the aftermath of the incident that forced Wayne Rooney to miss England's World Cup qualifiers earlier this month.

Rooney has been wearing a protective headband having needed 10 stitches in his forehead after being caught by Phil Jones during a Manchester United training session – the second time in just over a year that he has suffered a similar injury.

The injuries are believed to have been caused by boots – known as "hybrids" – that use a combination of traditional metal studs and new-style blades that are made of plastic and can become sharp when exposed to concrete surfaces.

"Wayne is a very high-profile player and both these incidents could have ended his career," said Taylor. "The boot manufacturers are becoming more and more aware there is a problem but I think it's something that needs to come from football with regard to health and safety issues."

Taylor added: "This is something we want to pursue with Fifa."

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Butland moves to Barnsley on loan

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Warrington clinch Grand Final spot

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IRB backing key to new competition

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Cookson set for 'critical' UCI vote

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