Sheffield United boss Chris Wilder is holding back goalkeeper Michael Verrips.
Voetbalnieuws says the Blades are choosing not to name the 22-year-old in their matchday squads because they are worried it could lead to an automatic forfeit of a game they are involved in.
Verrips was one of a number of new signings for the Blades this summer, joining from Belgian side KV Mechelen on a free transfer on deadline day.
But Verrips has not been involved because the club are wary of a FIFA investigation into the move.
Verrips attempted to terminate his contract with Mechelen before his move to Sheffield, but was unable to come to an agreement with them.
This did not prevent him signing as a free agent, leading to a furious reaction from Mechelen, who accused Sheffield United of not following transfer protocol and reported them to FIFA, says the Mirror.