As part of a slew of initiatives to combat unsportsmanlike conduct on the pitch, Premier League players have been told they face heavier penalties for bothering referees.

The governing body of English football hopes to “reset” players’ and managers’ perceptions of officials in the upcoming season.

Prior to the Premier League season beginning on August 11, a number of initiatives designed to address the problem were unveiled on Monday.

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With the support of more severe disciplinary measures from the Football Association, the new “Participant Charter” gives referees more authority to deal with bad behaviour.

Referees will be urged to show at least a yellow card if they are encircled by two or more players, and serious and persistent offenders can anticipate increasing financial penalties.

Additionally, managers risk punishment if they “enter the pitch to confront any match official at halftime or fulltime” after leaving the technical area on the touchline.

“We want players, managers and fans to continue showing their passion, but these new measures have been introduced to ensure that the line is not crossed when it comes to on-field and technical area behaviour,” said Premier League chief executive Richard Masters.

FA chief executive Mark Bullingham added: “Football has the power to unite and inspire all those that play and watch the game. However, sometimes, this can be negatively impacted by a small minority of players, coaches and fans.

“Our collective approach is to reset this behaviour on the pitch and from the sidelines, while giving our referees the respect and protection that they deserve.”

When fans are seen abusing football tragedies, such as by yelling about the Hillsborough or Munich catastrophes, clubs in the Premier League and the Football League will pursue harsher penalties.

“Incidents such as dangerous conduct, discrimination, and chanting about football-related tragedies have no place in our game – and can lead to football bans and potential criminal action,” Bullingham said.