Liverpool news: Pundit issues ‘big claim’ after confirmed update
Kevin Campbell has backed the reintroduction of five substitutes in the Premier League after a long campaign from Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp.
The former Arsenal striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, claimed the change does not hand an advantage to any club in particular.
As confirmed in an official statement yesterday (31 March), Premier League clubs have voted to increase the number of substitutions permitted per match from three to five.
The change will come into effect next season.
Liverpool boss Klopp has long advocated for the increase – which was initially introduced during Project Restart.
As quoted by ESPN last month (7 March), Klopp branded the change “essential” – insisting it is about the “quality of football” rather than handing his side an advantage.
Campbell claimed the new rules will help teams up and down the Premier League table.
“It could give those big sides an advantage,” he told Football Insider‘s Ewan Kingsbury.
“But it could just as easily give the smaller sides a helping hand as well. I think it balances itself out.
“Look, biggest sides have the best weapons on the bench – the likes of Liverpool and Man City are the best examples of that.
“They can fill that bench with match-winners. But I think with five substitutes, it will help the smaller sides too.
“When you’re playing away at a place like Anfield, getting fresh bodies on will help. It doesn’t matter if you’re doing well or badly – it could change the game in your favour.
“Listen, it’s swings and roundabouts – I’m not complaining.”
Man City boss Pep Guardiola and Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel were also advocates of the rule change.
Burnley boss Sean Dyche claimed in July 2020 that the rule is designed to favour the biggest clubs.
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