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.
