Premier League clubs have reportedly been told players returning from loan spells this summer will not be eligible to play when the season resumes - unless there are 'exceptional circumstances'.
The decision means Manchester United will not be able to play the likes of Chris Smalling or Alexis Sanchez when the Red Devils continue their quest for a top-four spot.
Chelsea are another club who might have benefited from being able to use returning loan players, as Frank Lampard's side had 27 players at other clubs when the season was suspended due to the coronavirus pandemic.
The Stamford Bridge side have been cited as an example of why the top flight has decided clubs will not be able to include returning players from loan spells in revised