Andy Burnham
(Picture: Getty Images)The mayors of Manchester and Liverpool have backed the work of Fair Game, which is being spearheaded by AFC Wimbledon and is calling for the governance of football to be improved.
The group of clubs, which started with six sides, has now swelled to 20 and it is continuing to grow in size.
The group, which includes Leyton Orient, are working to find long-term solutions to issues around the game, including protecting the heritage of clubs, a fairer distribution of TV revenues, opposing the European Super League, and tackling discrimination.
They have already appeared in the House of Commons and now they have received backing from the mayors of Manchester and Liverpool.
Andy Burnham, the mayor of Manchester, said: “I’m happy to support Fair Game. Their proposals are exactly what football needs.
“I’m only too aware of the dangers that exist. We’ve seen the collapse of Bury and the spectre of the ESL. Football is integral to our communities. The game needs a reboot.
“I back the need for an independent regulator, for an Owners and Directors Test that is fit for purpose, and most importantly the protection of the heritage and traditions of our clubs.”
Fair Game are working with a team of over 30 world-renowned experts, including academics from universities in Liverpool, Manchester, Sheffield, Brighton, London, Northumbria and Portsmouth to develop the solutions.
Fair Game will be launching its full manifesto on September 9 at Plough Lane, the home of AFC Wimbledon.
