The FSF’s submission to FA Commission

Back in September 2013 FA Chairman Greg Dyke announced his intention to lead a Commission to improve England’s future prospects at international level.

The FA invited submissions from “anyone involved or interested in the game who have views on the way young players are developed, from the earliest ages in the grassroots, right through the professional club environment and into the international set up”.

The FSF’s submission focused on a number of key areas – investment and participation levels, best practice in player development, international exchanges of youth coaches, quota systems, and opposition to “feeder clubs”, which are an especially controversial subject.

From time-to-time people within the professional game argue that Spanish-style feeder sides are the best way to get youngsters on the pitch. Supporters think that’s rubbish of course; when the FSF polled fans a few years back 86% said “no” to the idea. The backlash would be absolutely huge.

Following completion of evidence gathering and analysis the Commission will make initial recommendations to the FA Board in early 2014.

• You can read the FSF’s submission to the FA here (PDF)…

Thanks to Action Images for the image used in this story.