Premier League clubs are set to vote on whether five substitutions will be permitted during matches next season, according to a report in The Times. Teams are expected to vote in favour of the new rule, which would see the Premier League fall in line with the rest of Europe's major leagues, who currently allow five substitutions. Previously, there has been opposition to the ruling, with English clubs preferring the standard three substitutions per team, per fixture.
It had been feared by smaller clubs that a five substitutions rule would prove to be an advantage for wealthier clubs with deeper pockets and stronger squads. Sides such as Leeds United who have named several U23 players on the substitute bench on Premier League matchdays this season were perceived to be at a disadvantage if this rule was to come into force.
"The issue is due to be voted on again by the top-flight clubs at a Premier League stakeholders meeting in London after several attempts over the past two years to increase the number of replacements were defeated," the report states. Reportedly, there is 'high confidence' and 'broad support' among Premier League managers and captains for the move. Earlier this month, Leeds United were forced to see out the final ten minutes of a 1-0 defeat by Leicester City with an injured Tyler Roberts on the pitch after the Whites had used all three substitutions.
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Meanwhile, in Leeds' most recent fixture against Wolverhampton Wanderers, head coach Jesse Marsch was forced into using all three substitutions - and an additional concussion substitute - before the hour mark. In the interest of player welfare it is said the Professional Footballers' Association have backed the new ruling, expected to be voted through.
The decision serves as an added incentive for Leeds United, in many guises. Director of Football Victor Orta is keen to uphold Leeds' status as a club where young players can seek a viable route to first-team football. With the advent of five substitutions in Premier League fixtures from next season, the likelihood of senior debuts and top flight minutes is increased. Joe Gelhardt's rise to prominence within the senior squad is a shining example of how Orta's methodology would function in an ideal scenario. The teenager has made 11 league appearances from the bench for Leeds United this season, scoring twice, winning two penalties and registering one assist.
In a recent interview with Radio Marca, the Leeds Director of Football said: "The average cost of a starter in the Premier League is 25 and 30 million pounds. If I am able to get two [young players] in the squad, the model is more than justified. We have been the team with the most young players making their Premier League debuts this season. 'But Victor, you're taking a gamble, it's relegation' they'll say to me. It has its risks. I'd rather give those 600 minutes to Gelhardt and build a career, than buy a career."
