The rule change which will play to Portsmouth's strengths against Oxford United

Ben Close is confident having five subs in the play-offs will play to Pompey’s strengths.
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The Blues midfielder reckons the minimum two additional changes allowed in the play-offs will help his side make the most of their squad depth.

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The additional subs have been introduced with players returning after what will be nearly a four-month lay-off by the time the Oxford United clash comes around.

But with Jackett having some good options available that shouldn't be an issue for Pompey when they take on a side who were in flying form before the season was suspended.

He told talkSPORT 2: ‘I’m sure the manager has been thinking a lot about the extra subs.

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‘I think it can only benefit us. We have a very strong squad and are now able to get more of those players on to the field when they are fresh.

Ben CloseBen Close
Ben Close

‘Players may be flagging a bit towards the end of the game and I think the substitutes are going to be very important.

‘We haven’t played games for a while now and not everyone is going to be able to last 90 minutes and potentially extra-time, too.

‘I think the five subs rule will definitely help us because we have a really strong squad.

‘It’s good we are able to utilise that squad.’

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