Premiership clubs have voted to change the number of substitutes allowed in the remaining league games this season.

After the winter break, Rangers and the other 11 top-flight teams will be able to substitute five players, with nine permitted to be named on the bench in total.

It is felt that the dangers of a virus outbreak within first-team squads, combined with the intensity of the fixture schedule, means more subs will be needed to protect player welfare.

Changing such rules midseason has been permitted in domestic competitions by FIFA ever since the global health crisis began.

Most major leagues across Europe, with the exception of the EPL, have been using five substitutes since the start of the campaign and the Scottish Premiership is now simply falling in line.

Increasing the matchday squad will also benefit youngsters, with the Gers and other Premiership teams likely to fill some of the bench with academy players.