Extended benches, subs for EPL resumption

PREMIER League clubs will be able to use five substitutes rather than the usual three when the season resumes on June 17, it was announced yesterday.

The changes will be temporary to mitigate the packed schedule clubs will have after a three-month suspension to the season caused by the Covid-19 pandemic.

There are 92 outstanding fixtures with the majority of teams facing nine matches in a six-week period.

Clubs will be able to have nine substitutes on the bench, up from the usual seven.