Football Association considering B team competition

By Joe Fish, Reporter | 06 May 2014

The Football Association will discuss on Wednesday the possibility of introducing a competition for the B teams of Premier League and Championship clubs.

The Football Association will discuss the introduction of a competition involving the B teams of Premier League and Championship clubs this week.

FA chairman Greg Dyke's commission are exploring ways to improve the performances of England's national team and favour more competitive playing opportunities for the young talent developing at the top sides.

One proposal would see a B team league placed at the fifth tier of the English football pyramid, and another would see these second teams merge into both League Two and the Conference, and then split the leagues into two by region.

It is believed that the majority of Premier League and Championship clubs are in support of the notion, which will be debated thoroughly by the FA on Wednesday, as long as it does not have an adverse effect on other leagues and competitions.

"We recognise the benefits a successful England team brings to the game in this country at all levels," Dyke told reporters. "After fully considering the relevant issues, the Board will then take a recommendation back to clubs who will determine the League's position on this matter."

Spain, Netherlands and Germany are among the countries who have B teams in their football pyramid, whether integrated within the first-team sides or separated to form their own competition.