'Home-grown' rule for Football League clubs

The Football League has introduced a new rule that requires all 72 members to have at least 10 ‘home-grown’ players from next season after clubs voted in favour of the proposal.

These players must have been registered in domestic football for three years before their 21st birthday.

In addition, there will be a limit to 25 players over the age of 21, but no such restriction for players under the age of 21.

Other issues were also discussed at the Football League’s annual meeting in Malta.

If clubs do not issue financial accounts to the League on time they will be hit with a transfer embargo.

Leyton Orient’s proposal of a double relegation for teams going into administration was rejected, but a loophole has been closed meaning that all clubs in administration will receive sporting sanctions even if they are part of a group company.

The Board has however agreed to review administration punishments if necessary.

Chairman Greg Clarke said: "This has been a positive and constructive meeting at which we've looked at many of the important issues currently facing football and taken steps to address a number of the most pressing governance concerns."