Cobblers can now make more subs after rule change

Teams in the EFL will be allowed to make up to five substitutions a game from this weekend after clubs voted through a rule change.

Championship clubs can name up to nine substitutes in their matchday squad, with five permitted to take to the pitch in any fixture. League One and League Two side can name up to seven substitutes in their matchday squad, again with five permitted to take to the pitch.

The decision, which brings the EFL into line with the majority of leagues across Europe, has been taken with one eye on player welfare due to the busy and congested nature of the 2020/21 campaign.

However, the Premier League is not expected to reintroduce the five-substitute rule this season despite strong support from a number of clubs, with Pep Guardiola and Jurgen Klopp especially vocal.

Keith Curle will have the luxury of making two extra sustitutions starting at Burton Albion this weekend.

The EFL confirmed: "Following consultation with clubs, the EFL board has agreed to increase the permitted number of substitutes to five in all Sky Bet EFL fixtures taking place from 12 noon on Friday 20 November for the remainder of the 2020/21 season.

"Regulation 33.4 has been amended to permit:

"Championship Clubs to name up to nine substitutes in their matchday squad, with five permitted to take to the pitch in any fixture.

"League One and League Two Clubs to name up to seven substitutes in their matchday squad, again with five permitted to take to the pitch."