Premier 2 plan “a non-starter”

ATHLETIC are opposed to moves to expand the Premier League to two divisions, with fears for the long-term future of those sides who find themselves left looking in from the outside.

Top-flight clubs convene in London today with Bolton chairman Phil Gartside set to put forward plans for a two-tier Premier League featuring Old Firm clubs Celtic and Rangers.
Gartside’s idea is a product of what he describes as a “fear factor” among those smaller clubs at risk of losing their place in the top division, which in turn prompts overspending when attempting to avoid the financial blow of a drop into the Championship.

Though it is unlikely the proposal will win widespread backing, the prospect of Athletic being ‘locked out’ of the top two divisions — it is doubtful promotion and relegation to and from a two-division Premier League would be determined purely on playing merit — the fact that the idea is being recycled once more is a worry in itself.

However, while Athletic chief executive Alan Hardy opposes the move, he can’t see it moving past the pipedream stage.

“I believe it is a non-starter,” Hardy said. “It seems to be about Bolton safeguarding their position, but I cannot see it happening.

“To stop promotion and relegation through the football pyramid would be detrimental to the health of the national game as a whole.”

Athletic, who report no fresh injury concerns, travel down ahead of the Gillingham away test in Coca-Cola League One tomorrow morning and will stop to train on the way.

ATHLETIC’S youngsters made it through to the second round of the FA Youth Cup with a 4-1 win over Stalybridge Celtic at Boundary Park.

Tony Philliskirk’s side now face a home tie in the second round against Rochdale. Officials from both clubs will attempt to fix a date for the game today.