Times journalist: Leeds defeated in first Premier League vote as new rules set
Leeds United got to vote in the Premier League for the first time and saw one of their preferences defeated as new rules were set for the 20/21 campaign.
Times journalist Martyn Ziegler said that, “As expected, Premier League clubs voted to reject five subs for next season.”
It means that managers will be able to make a maximum of three changes next season.
Ziegler went on to say that while the big clubs want to be able to use five subs, for obvious squad-related reasons, clubs such as Leeds were against it.
The motion was defeated by 11 clubs from 20, with 14 needed for a rule change.
The five-subs rule was brought into place following lockdown in both the Premier League and the Championship.
However, Leeds voted in favour of a nine-man bench. This was also defeated by 10 votes to 10 and it means the Premier League will revert to a matchday squad of 18.
One change that went through unanimously was “the implementation of VAR, in line with the full FIFA VAR protocol.”
One win, one loss
Marcelo Bielsa isn’t known for making lots of changes to his side and likes to work with a small group of players.
So, we’re surprised that Leeds voted in favour of a nine-man bench, although it would provide more scope for younger players to get experience of the first-team squad.
We’re glad the five-subs rule has been defeated. It’s no surprise that clubs such as Chelsea voted for it. The depth in squad of teams such as Chelsea and Man City would mean a huge advantage for the power six if the rules had been changed.
Plus, we think being able to change almost half of the team takes away a lot of the tactical nous of the manager. If you can only make three changes, the impact you can make on the starting XI is limited.
We’re happy with how things turned out today and we’re very glad to see Leeds United voting at the top table.
In other Leeds United news, Phil Hay delivers Bielsa update, expects Leeds to confirm major loan signing this week