September 3 – English top-flight clubs are split over whether to use five substitutes instead of three, with the issue being debated for a second time at today’s shareholder meeting having already been rejected.
A few weeks ago the idea was turned down by a narrow 11-9 margin with clubs who have smaller squads out voting the larger ones. To pass, any new legislation would require a two-thirds majority.
The nine clubs that wanted five substitutes rather than the traditional three included Liverpool, Manchester City, Manchester United, Chelsea, Tottenham and Arsenal. The smaller clubs argued that they would be at a competitive disadvantage since the big boys have more quality to rotate
The rule to permit five substitutes was introduced by FIFA when leagues restarted in mid-June to cope with a congested fixture list.
Individual leagues have been given the green light to make their own decisions for the forthcoming campaign and the item is back on the agenda in the UK, according to Britain’s Guardian newspaper.
Contact the writer of this story at moc.l1713606351labto1713606351ofdlr1713606351owedi1713606351sni@w1713606351ahsra1713606351w.wer1713606351dna1713606351