Following the Reds’ draw with Manchester City on Sunday, a big talking point came after the game when Jurgen Klopp proposed the number of substitutes during a match change from three to five.
The suggestion came in light of the Reds’ heavy match schedule that saw them play seven games in three weeks – an average of a match every three days. Liverpool correspondent James Pearce of The Athletic tweeted the manager’s quotes after the game, where he criticised Premier League CEO, Richard Masters…
Klopp very critical of PL CEO Richard Masters: "It's a lack of leadership. Richard Masters sold it completely wrong. It's not an advantage (to be able to use 5 subs), it's a necessity. In all other countries it happens. It’s really incredible." #LFC
— James Pearce (@JamesPearceLFC) November 8, 2020
I can only agree with Klopp and his thoughts on the matter – especially given the number of games and injuries that Liverpool have already had to endure, on top of the jam-packed schedule they have to follow after the international break.
This new rule changing could be really good for the Premier League and for clubs involved in numerous competitions throughout the season who could do with a few extra pairs of fresh legs towards the last knocking’s of a game when planning for upcoming fixtures.
Klopp is right to challenge the leadership of Richard Masters, given that this rule is already in place in every other major league in Europe, it is a disgrace that the Premier League haven’t even addressed the issue, let alone make a change around the ruling.
I think the discussion needs to be had, as a lot is expected of teams to meet the deadlines of games despite not having had enough time to recover, train, and prepare after previous matches in other competitions – overall it is an example of poor leadership and Klopp is right to challenge that.
What do you think Reds, do you think there needs to be a change in the rule? Let us know in the comments down below…