Maximum of six substitutes a setback for Sven
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Sven Goran Eriksson suffered defeat in his campaign to prevent a limit on the number of substitutes in international friendlies after a six-player maximum was imposed yesterday.
The England head coach and the Football Association had led protests against Fifa's proposal but were forced to accept the restriction at a meeting of the International FA Board in London. Eriksson can continue to make as many changes as he wants in the three friendlies before Euro 2004 as the new rule is from 1 July.
The change will inevitably make his job tougher, especially with the delicate club versus country balance and it could even have an effect on his thinking over a new contract offer to run until 2008.
"The decision is disappointing and has been made against the wishes of the leading coaches in Europe," Eriksson said. "The only chance managers have to see new players is in friendlies and we only have three or four a year. I have spoken to president Blatter about this and even though they have increased the number of substitutes to six from five, I still think the decision is wrong."
FA executive director David Davies added: "Sven will be disappointed but we have three friendlies before Euro 2004 and I am sure he'd want to use all the players he is taking to Portugal."
The Board also scrapped the golden and silver goal rules post-Euro 2004, knockout games again to be decided on penalties after extra-time. Other rules passed included the use of artificial pitches and a caution for shirt removal during goal celebrations.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments