The Premier League's 'top six' clubs are reportedly pushing for the biggest shake-up of English football for a generation.
The Times claim that the Premier League, FA and EFL will meet on Friday to discuss proposals from the top-flight clubs, which include dramatic changes to the FA Cup, Carabao Cup and Community Shield. The report adds that the changes could include scrapping FA Cup replays and moving the Community Shield from its traditional position as the curtain-raiser to the season.
Meanwhile, the Carabao Cup rules could be changed so that clubs in European competitions only field junior sides. It is said that the shake-up has been branded by the Premier League as part of what it calls "A New Deal For Football".
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The Premier League would reportedly share more of its money with lower leagues if the changes are passed, with the EFL said to want an extra £300 million a year.
This week's meeting will reportedly involve Premier League chairwoman Alison Brittain, Debbie Hewitt of the FA and Rick Parry of the EFL. It is believed Premier League chief executive Richard Masters will also be present with Mark Bullingham of the FA, and the EFL’s Trevor Birch.
The Times add that the EFL would be open to changing the Carabao Cup with options such as clubs in Europe not taking part at all or only Under-21 participation on the table. The new deal could see FA Cup replays scrapped from the third round onwards, when top-flight clubs join the competition.
The Community Shield could reportedly also be moved as suggested alternatives include playing it as part of the opening weekend or mid-season, or for it to be in an international market. It is said one Premier League club has also expressed their preference for it to be used as an “All Stars” game, with each Premier League team providing a maximum of two players and playing against the top stars from other European leagues.
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