The English Football League has definitively ended the controversial proposal to include Premier League B teams in the league system, following a meeting of all 72 clubs. Chief executive Shaun Harvey confirmed that the plans for a 'Whole Game Solution' revamp will not feature B teams, clubs from non-English leagues, or those outside the English football pyramid.
Instead, the eight extra clubs needed for the proposed four divisions of 20 teams will be sourced from the National League. The decision kills off the idea floated in 2014 by then-FA chairman Greg Dyke, which aimed to boost English talent production but faced widespread opposition from fans.
Premier League executive chairman Richard Scudamore had previously stated that B teams were not part of the plans, calling the proposals 'the block, not the thin end of the wedge'. The Checkatrade Trophy, which includes Premier League academy sides, will not serve as a precursor to B team inclusion in league football.
The Whole Game Solution also aims to reduce fixture congestion and introduce a winter break. League One and League Two clubs expressed a desire to play through any break, as it could benefit attendances while top-flight football pauses.
Harvey emphasised that the decision came from the clubs themselves and promised further consultation with the National League, supporters' groups, and the Premier League. The final proposals will be put to a vote at the end of the season.
The mechanism for the new structure, including promotion and relegation from the 2018-19 season, is still to be decided. Options range from extreme changes to a compromise reducing the number of relegations.
