Mansfield Town now permitted to use up to five substitutes in league matches following EFL rule change

Nigel Clough’s matchday options just got greater after the EFL announced clubs would be allowed to make up to five substitutions in league matches.

The rule change has been announced today and will come into effect for all contests played on Friday and beyond.

While all clubs in the three divisions will be allowed to make five changes in a game, the number of players named on the bench will differ.

Championship clubs will be allowed to name nine substitutes, while League One and League Two sides can still name seven players on the bench.

Previously only three changes were allowed to be made in a game.

An EFL statement read: “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 noon on Friday, November 20 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.”

MORE STAGS: The dirtiest teams in League Two – revealed

MORE STAGS: Self belief is key – Clough

MORE STAGS: Stags needed to re-charge the batteries