It may have started off as just a fanciful idea.
But the longer this keeps going on, the more and more likely it is that we’re going to have to do it out of necessity rather than just what I want to have happen.
According to various reports, FIFA have made the proposal that clubs should be allowed to use five substitutes rather than the traditional three to help get players through the last few games of the season when and if football does resume.
I’ve spoken previously about how the academy players could play a huge part in how we end the season given that we could be placed into a ‘mad dash’ to get things done as quickly as possible, well if this rule comes into effect, then it is the perfect opportunity for them to get some crucial minutes under their belt. Given our position in the table, I can’t see us being dragged into a relegation scrap when and if the season does continue, so some of the focus will have to turn towards next season as I’ve talked about before.
Not only that, but it also gives the more senior players some extra minutes of rest as they get ready to tackle the remainder of the games that they’re going to go up against. Not only that, but if we are set to sell Jude Bellingham, then it might be worth taking him off the pitch when and if the time requires so as to protect our £30m asset.
At this stage, it’s looking more and more likely that we are going to have to call on them in some fashion, so it looks like there isn’t going to be any excuse for Pep Clotet not to call on them at some point.
So a short-term fix to the problem might provide a lot of long-term benefits.