Chelsea have sought to expand the bench for the remainder of the Premier League season.

The Daily Mail says Chelsea have submitted a formal proposal to the Premier League to increase the maximum number of substitutes permitted on the bench from seven to nine for the remainder of the season.

The proposal will be discussed by the clubs at this Thursday's shareholders meeting with a vote on the issue to take place the following week on 11 June.

Chelsea's request to increase the number of substitute options available to managers stems from concerns about the greater risk of injuries following a lengthy break and the prospect of cramming nine matches into a six-week period.

Chelsea are among the clubs with most to lose if the Premier League resumes as planned on 17 June, as they are currently fourth in the table and would qualify for next season's Champions League if the campaign was curtailed.