Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has criticised the decision to cancel the five substitute ruling in the Premier League amid growing concerns over player welfare.
Last season saw the introduction of additional substitutes following the Premier League’s restart in June, with clubs permitted to make up to five changes in a bid to protect players during a congested period of football.
The rule change was then put to a vote ahead of the new campaign with a majority ruling in favour of returning to three substitutes, many of the Premier League’s lesser sides believing additional changes benefitted those with wealthier and deeper resources.
Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp and Manchester City’s Pep Guardiola are amongst the notable names to have expressed their concern, and it appears Solskjaer is in agreement with his managerial rivals.
The Norwegian has criticised the decision in what he calls ‘the most demanding season’ of all this term, admitting the growing list of injuries amongst top flight players is a huge concern and that he ‘100%’ believes the five substitute ruling should have remained.
“100%. I don’t understand and can’t believe clubs voted against it.” he told a pre-match press conference ahead of this weekend’s clash with Arsenal at Old Trafford.
”It’s the most demanding season of all and we have to look after the players’ mental and physical health.
“We’ve already seen loads of injuries. I know Pep [Guardiola] has been talking about it.
”We, as clubs and managers, have to look after them.”
Read – Eight moments that defined Arsenal and Man United’s classic rivalry
Read Also – Smashed it! Nine players who shone during Champions League gameweek two