Return of the North / South Divide ? 

 

Bournemouth Chairman Peter Phillips has called for the bottom two divisions to again become regionalised, during an interview with BBC Radio Solent.

This age old debate is always guaranteed to cause a storm in footballing circles. Although any changes would not affect the Saddlers at the moment, any changes could affect us in the future. 

The current state of British football means that regionalisation is an option that the authorities may well consider to help out those experiencing financial problems.

Philips went on to speak about how Midlands clubs may not see this  the same way that the Cherries do, but Mr Phillips says this for the wrong reasons. The reason that many Midlands clubs will be opposed to it is because we do not want to change the structure of football just to suit those who cannot manage their finances. 

This is the same reason that Roy Whalley gave when criticizing  the Wage Capping scheme proposed by some First Division Clubs earlier in the season. Whalley claimed that the Saddlers would be opposed to the wage capping scheme because the Saddlers already managed their own finances sensibly.

The motivation behind reorganisation is debt. 

• The Saddlers have fought hard to keep out of debt.
• Why should we weaken our position to suit those who have mismanaged their finances.
• The views of Peter Phillips do not recognise the hard work that clubs like Walsall and Rotherham have put in to stay in the Black.
• We are not in the divisions that are involved in regionalisation at the moment, but if (or when) we do return to these divisions, we do not want to see the level of competition weakened because those who are unable to manage their finances are struggling.

Walsall have only spent more than £100k once in 13 Years. This is what has to be done to stay in the Black. It has just so happened that this has also resulted in First Division Football. We are sure that many Saddlers fans will agree with this point of view...

Phillips has said he is going to raise the issue at the next meeting between the clubs...we will have to watch and see how this one develops.

let us know your views on the forum...

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