Free-kick goals vanishing despite spray

The art of scoring direct from free-kicks appears to be a vanishing one — despite the introduction of vanishing spray.

When it comes to hitting the back of the net direct from free-kicks, Premier League players are on course for one of their most barren seasons in over a decade.

The purpose of the spray, which was successfully used at last summer’s World Cup before being adopted by the English top flight for this season, is to try and ensure opponents do not encroach within 10 yards of a free-kick taker.