(London) Premier League soccer will revert to the maximum limit of three changes per game next season, after England's main league sides decided to no longer apply the rule allowing two additional substitutions.

Clubs had backed the proposal to allow up to five changes per game to better cope with a congested schedule after the coronavirus pandemic forced a 100-day hiatus that ended in June.

Although the International Council of Association Football has accepted the use of five substitutions for the next season, the league will not adopt it. The rule was seen by some as advantageous for teams with more depth.

When the new season kicks off on September 12, Premier League teams can count on seven reservists. Only three can be sent to the field.