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FOLLOWERS: Rio Ferdinand

FOOTBALLERS HAVE been issued guidelines for their use of social media websites such as Twitter and Facebook.

The Premier League is now offering advice on endorsement of brands, goods and services; while encouraging players not to reveal confidential information relating to team matters.

Several top flight clubs already have their own rule book in place, but others have requested further guidance for their squads.

Richard Scudamore, chief executive of the Premier League said: “Social media is doing a good job of allowing fans to feel closer to the players.

He continued: “There is a more human side now to some of the players and the public can communicate more directly with them. Sometimes there can be abusive comments, but generally the internet, online chat rooms, and the way people are communicating, is healthy.”

The rules also cover what action the Football Association should take with those who do make comments deemed as improper.

The advice follows Arsenal midfielder Emmanuel Frimpong’s FA charge and club fine for ‘improper conduct’, which relates to a tweet he sent.

One of the biggest names on Twitter is Manchester United star Rio Ferdinand who has millions of followers.