What action does a referee take if a player is injured but the ball is out of play?

When a player is injured and the ball is out of play, the appropriate action for the referee is to stop the game immediately. This procedure ensures the safety of the injured player, allowing medical personnel to attend to them without the risk of players continuing to engage in play. Stopping the game prevents potential further injury and provides an opportunity for the referee to assess the situation calmly.

This action is in accordance with the spirit of the game, where the welfare of the players takes precedence over the normal flow of the match. When the ball is out of play, the referee has the authority to halt the game, ensuring that all players are aware and that immediate attention can be given to the injured individual. The correct protocol in this scenario is to prioritize health and safety, as reflected in the laws governing the game.