Young players like Ashley Miller may now find their chances of first team action reduced

by Luke Cawdell

Andy Hessenthaler has criticised the Football League’s decision to reduce the number of named substitutes in a match.

League clubs can now only name five substitutes instead of a maximum seven and Hessenthaler, with a squad of 27, feels it is going to hinder the development of the younger generation.

"Why do they make these rules up and then change them?" said Hessenthaler.

"Why can’t we stick with seven subs? What you are doing is stopping the development of a player. We might have wanted to put a young kid on the bench for experience. I think it is ludicrous.

"I think it’s a backward step but that’s typical FA unfortunately."

The likes of Ashley Miller, from Gillingham’s youth set-up, has enjoyed an early taste of first-team action due to the seven-substitute rule last season, which gives managers more flexibility and options.

Some smaller clubs, however, have struggled to fill the bench and felt they were at a disadvantage.

The new rules could force Hessenthaler to take a gamble in matches by naming five outfield players on the bench and no reserve keeper.

"When I was manager here before we sometimes went without a keeper and Cheltenham’s manager did it," said Hessenthaler.

"It’s harsh on the second keeper but you need outfield options."

With two less players in the matchday squad Hessenthaler’s selection has been even more crucial. Matt Fish had to watch Saturday’s game from the stands, despite an impressive pre-season.

"I’ve had a couple of tough days, nice days, but tough in terms of selection," added the Gills boss. "It’s nice because we are able to pick from a good squad, other than obviously forward options.

"It was so close with a lot of players like Fish, then (Danny) Jackman at left-back, along with Curtis Weston and Garry Richards."

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