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Evening Standard
Evening Standard
Sport
Simon Collings

AFC Wimbledon part of Fair Game movement calling for change in football governance

AFC Wimbledon are one of a growing number of EFL clubs who have joined forces to ensure the governance of football in England is changed.

The Dons are part of the group, Fair Game, which also includes Cambridge United, Exeter, Grimsby, Luton and Newport County - with six more EFL clubs close to joining.

It is understood over 20 more sides are also interested in joining the movement, which is hoping to change the way football is run in England.

Fair Game’s philosophy is built around their four principles of community, independent regulation, integrity and sustainability.

They have been spurred on by the failed launched of the European Super League last month and believe now is the time for football to restructure the way it is run.

The Government has launched a fan-led review of football, which is being chaired by Tracey Crouch MP, and Fair Game are determined to make sure new legislation is enforced.

Those involved have grown concerned by the financial perils clubs have faced, with Bury the most recent example.

London sides, in particular, know all too well about the financial issues that have caused problems in the EFL, with Charlton and Leyton Orient two of the most recent victims of it.

Fair Game, like Gary Neville and his team of ex players, have called for an independent regulator of football.

They have been in touch with those connected to Neville’s campaign and the two share many similar values on how football needs to be restructured.

Niall Couper, the director of Fair Game and board member of the Dons Trust, told Standard Sport: “This really is a once in a lifetime opportunity to change football for the better.

“As football clubs we believe we can do that. Our call to London sides is simple: ‘Join us’ - and create a game that is sustainable and respects the fans.”

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