The Premier League has criticised reported plans for a radical restructuring of English football, describing a number of the individual proposals involved as having a potentially "damaging" impact on the game.
On Sunday morning, The Telegraph explosively claimed that top-flight giants Manchester United and Liverpool were the driving forces behind a proposed huge shake-up of English football known as 'Project Big Picture'.
As part of that 'revitalisation' plan, the Premier League would be reduced from 20 to 18 teams, with the Community Shield and League Cup scrapped.
25 per cent of the Premier League's annual revenue would also go to EFL clubs, with the power held by the top-flight's so-called 'Big Six' teams greatly increased.
The proposals appear to have the backing of Rick Parry, with the Premier League expressing their disappointment at that "on-the-record support" from the EFL chairman.
"We have seen media reports today regarding a plan to restructure football in this country," the Premier League's statement read.
"English football is the world's most watched, and has a vibrant, dynamic and competitive league structure that drives interest around the globe.
"To maintain this position, it is important that we all work together.
"Both the Premier League and The FA support a wide-ranging discussion on the future of the game, including its competition structures, calendar and overall financing particularly in light of the effects of COVID-19.
"Football has many stakeholders, therefore this work should be carried out through the proper channels enabling all clubs and stakeholders the opportunity to contribute.
"In the Premier League's view, a number of the individual proposals in the plan published today could have a damaging impact on the whole game and we are disappointed to see that Rick Parry, Chair of the EFL, has given his on-the-record support.
"The Premier League has been working in good faith with its clubs and the EFL to seek a resolution to the requirement for COVID-19 rescue funding.
"This work will continue."
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