SOUTHEND United boss Kevin Maher wants National League sides to be able to select more substitutes.

Teams in the fifth tier are currently only able to pick five players on the bench.

But Maher is keen for the league to up that number and match EFL sides who are able to select seven.

“It’s disappointing only having five subs,” said Maher.

“I’d like more, the League have seven and I’d prefer that.

“With seven you might have younger players you can have involved too.

“Sometimes they need a break and you might be able to throw them on.

“You look at Matt Dennis for instance against Dorking and it changes things for players.

“I think seven subs would be beneficial for everyone.”

However, Maher will again only be able to select five substitute against Solihull Moors this weekend.

And Maher – who left Jack Bridge out of the squad on Eastleigh on Tuesday night – faces more difficult decisions.

“Bridgey has been brilliant for me ever since I’ve been here but Matty Dennis came back onto the bench and it’s difficult,” said Maher.

“We had players who are ready to come on and it’s important if there’s a change needed early in the game.”