National League Cup: Why are Rochdale and Forest Green making first-minute substitutions?

Last month, Forest Green Rovers manager Robbie Savage made headlines after making a quadruple substitution during a match against Wolves Under-21s in the National League Cup.

Savage has stated that while he wants to win the competition, he sees it primarily as an opportunity to give minutes to young players, and the club’s primary focus is on matches in the National League.

“I know it raises eyebrows and some people say it’s not true, but competition is great for our guys, but also our guys need minutes and there are competitions we want to win,” Savage said.

“For me, the most important thing is that we are ready for Saturday [league games].

“that it [the National League Cup] “The competition we entered and we want to win is a competition for our young players.”

The downside of Savage making early changes is that it limits his substitutions later in matches, preventing further opportunities for younger players.

“What’s a bit frustrating is that because you made four substitutions in the first minute – when I give minutes to youngsters who haven’t played regular football – I’m only left with one substitute for 89 minutes,” Savage added.

“So I think it is [the regulations] Suspending my young players from playing.”

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