Daily Mirror (Northern Ireland)
FOOTBALL’S BIG REBOOT
Fans to win new powers at clubs under bold plan
I hope this review protects the good and special TRACEY CROUCH
REVOLUTIONARY proposals for English football were put forward in a long-awaited Government review yesterday.
Fans’ groups would be awarded a “golden share”, giving them legal powers over key decisions by clubs.
The legislation would mean they could prevent another Super League.
In April the attempted breakaway by Liverpool, Chelsea, Manchester United, Arsenal, Spurs and Manchester City ignited fury.
Former Sports Minister
Tracey Crouch, chair of the review panel, warned clubs were only “one bad owner away” from disaster if reforms were not introduced.
She said: “I hope this review protects the good and the special but sets a clear course for a stronger national game with the interests of fans at its heart.” The golden share would give supporters on a “shadow board” new powers to veto changes to the heritage of their clubs.
It would give them a say on ground moves and changes to team colours or badge, ticket and replica kit prices.
An independent regulator would ensure an ownership and director test.
That recommendation follows the furore over the sale of Newcastle United to a Saudi consortium.
The £305million sale to the group led by crown prince Mohammed bin Salman comes despite the country’s human rights record. The test would check “the integrity and reputation of any close family member or business associate of the proposed owner”.
Independent directors would also oversee major changes by owners.
Regular financial checks would ensure clubs do not go bust, the review added. Grassroots clubs could soon benefit from a levy on Premier League transfers, although no amount was stipulated.
Just 10% would have earned lower leagues
£160m annually over the past five years, the report claimed.
The report states: “Given the vast wealth at the top of football... it is not unreasonable the PL supports wider football to an even greater level.”
The review follows contributions from fans of more than 130 clubs. Kevin Miles, chief executive of the Football Supporters’ Association, heralded it as “potentially a huge step forward for football governance”, adding the review had listened to fans.
He said: “It is up to the Government to deliver on the recommendations.
“The proposals lay the basis for a prosperous and sustainable future for football at all levels.” The Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport committee chair Julian Knight MP said: “For too long professional football has operated with a disregard for fans and for the most basic good business practice.” He urged the reforms to be included in the next Queen’s Speech. The Premier League said it recognised the importance of fans and the need “to restore and retain trust”. jeremy.armstrong@mirror.co.uk