NYON: European federation UEFA will allow national teams to name expanded squads of 26 players for this summer’s rearranged European Championship finals.

UEFA’s executive committee last month confirmed teams will be able to make five substitutions per game at the tournament to help balance player workload at the end of an intense season.

With such issues in mind, squads at the Euros are now set to be increased from 23 players to a group of 26.

It has been widely reported that UEFA’s national teams committee recommended the expansion, which is expected to be rubber-stamped by the executive committee.

England manager Gareth Southgate looks to be among those that would benefit most from the changes given the number of talented players he has at his disposal.

Southgate said: “I know there’s some discussion about perhaps an extended number in the squad. I’m not certain I’m behind that.

“I know Covid could play a part but I think there’s a skill to picking 23. It means you’ve got to make good decisions and important decisions and I think some of that can be lost as you get an extended group.

“So, yeah, let’s see how that develops but I’m not 100 per cent for it, I’d have to say.”

Southgate will name his squad for the Euros in the week beginning May 24, while Wales and Scotland have yet to indicate when they will make their selections.

#############