The decision will see Wales, the first country to use substitutes in 1889 against Scotland, become the first to remove the role of substitutes moving forward, allowing footballers to prove their passion and skills on the pitch for the whole 90-minute game period, including those commonly substituted over multiple games.
Players who underperform in competitive matches, show a lack of character resulting in yellow or red cards, or fail to maintain stamina throughout the game, are at risk of not being picked in the following match rather than being replaced during the game by a substitute.
The historic move will ultimately require players to stay on the pitch to play the entire 90-minute game unless injured or unable to continue. Thanks to the community partnership the Welsh Blood Service has with the FAW, Genero Adran and JD Cymru Leagues they have offered their cutting-edge facilities to help the team transition into the new leagues’ rule. The Welsh Blood Service has been working closely with the leagues since November 2020 to promote the importance of donating blood and blood products.
Oli Farslop, Chairman of the National Leagues Board, said: “Wales has a longstanding history with substitutes, starting in 1889 when local amateur footballer Alf Pugh replaced goalkeeper Jim Trainer, who didn’t turn up to the match, against Scotland. But it’s important for the FAW to look at new ways to innovate the game and make our matches as competitive as possible, so we’re saying goodbye to the bench.
