Surprised this hasnt really been mentioned as it could have a major impact on the game in this country in the future. From all the witnesses across the game they seem to have come out with some pretty decent recommendations to get the game run in a more sustainable matter:
I think they've done well to avoid just replicating other countries, and it all seems to be pretty much common sense, and all of it would hopefully dissuade overseas ownership where they dont have the clubs interests at heart. Don't know how long it would take to put in place, but hopefully if not done in 2 or 3 years the government will push it through instead.
- Removal of football creditors rule - Can only see this as a good thing. Clubs at the moment trade with the promise that funds will be guaranteed. Even in the lower leagues, players get sold with a guarantee that if a club goes into administration, they will get their money post-administration or from the football league. If they remove this, clubs will be a lot more cautious as to who they sell players to, and clubs will probably have to pay up front, rather than paying over 48 months or deferring it.
- licensing system for clubs - I'd imagine the license will have certain provisos, eg transparency of ownership, sustainable finances, etc. It will supposedly be more proactive in monitoring clubs activities (rather than reactive) and be against the sale of a clubs ground unless its for the good of the club (eg they're moving elsewhere)
- stronger fit & proper persons test - the current one is a load of rubbish. Only have to look at Chester to see how it gets circumvented (ie banned director does it all through his son instead). Really needs tightening up to ensure those at clubs have the clubs interest at heart.
- changing the FA board - the premier league has too much power at the FA. Tail wagging the dog scenario. If they changed the structure thats proposed then the FA (representing the game at all levels) will be much more influential, which I think would be good.
- supporter ownership - recommends making it easier for supporters trusts to raise funds and to have an option to buy a club if it gets into financial problems. Would greatly help if supporters have a say in their clubs, rather than random businessmen.
- parachute payments - recommends changing the mix between parachute payments and solidarity payments to try and reduce the 'promotion or bust' ethos in the championship. Good idea.
I think they've done well to avoid just replicating other countries, and it all seems to be pretty much common sense, and all of it would hopefully dissuade overseas ownership where they dont have the clubs interests at heart. Don't know how long it would take to put in place, but hopefully if not done in 2 or 3 years the government will push it through instead.