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Football Association to vote on whether to approve reforms

By Bryan Swanson, Sky Sports News HQ chief news reporter

Thursday 18 May 2017 14:31, UK

LONDON - MARCH 24: An aerial view of the new Wembley Stadium during the England U21 v Italy U21 friendly match on March 24, 2007 in London, England (Phot
Image: The FA shareholders will cast their votes on whether to approve reforms that will be presented to the government

Football Association shareholders will vote on Thursday whether to approve historic reforms for the game's governing body.

FA chairman Greg Clarke wants to have more female members on the FA board by next year, the board that appoints England managers.

Greg Clarke does not believe the FA has let down the alleged victims of sexual abuse at clubs
Image: Greg Clarke is hoping to appoint more female members to the FA board

Proposals include:

  • Establishing three positions on the FA board reserved for female members by next year, there's currently only Heather Rabbatts
  • Reducing the size of the board to 10 members
  • Adding 11 new members to the FA Council so it "better reflects the inclusive and diverse nature of English football"
  • Limiting board membership to three periods of three years
  • Introducing term limits for FA Council membership

Some equality campaigners have criticised the reforms for not going far enough.

Dame Heather Rabbatts is the only female on the current FA board
Image: Dame Heather Rabbatts is the only female on the current FA board

The proposals have already been unanimously approved by the FA Council, and are expected to be given the green light today.

75 per cent of the FA's 1,100 shareholders must approve the reforms for them to be presented to the government.

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Clarke has previously said he will resign if the government does not accept new reform package.

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