Bristol Rovers have drawn criticism from some sections of the fanbase over their change in policy over who acts as ballboys and girls on matchdays in 2019/20.
From next season, young volunteers will be replaced by Rovers academy players on first-team matchdays at the Mem. A decision that has been met with some opposition and disappointment from Gasheads and accusations the club is losing its identity and relationship with the local community.
However, Bristol Live understands the decision is purely a football one as manager Graham Coughlan wants to play a high-tempo style and ensure the ball comes back into play as quickly as possible.
Academy players will be under direct instructions to retrieve the ball as quickly as possible when it goes out of play, whether for throw-ins, corners or goal kicks, and ensure the Gas remain on the front foot at all times.
In a world of marginal gains in sport, it comes as no surprise the Irishman is looking to exploit every advantage he can get to give his team maximum advantage on home soil, especially as speed was something lacking from Rovers play last season.
As Coughlan admitted earlier this month, he is looking to bring more pace to Rovers' overall approach. He told BBC Radio Bristol: "I'd like to play a high-pressing game, I'd like to get at the opponent and force them backwards, onto the back foot.
"I'd like to get a bit of pace down the sides as well - I use the adage windscreen wipers, with crosses in the box and second phases and just a high-tempo pressing game."
Liverpool ballboy Oakley Cannonier became an unlikely hero on Merseyside when he played a key role in the Reds' remarkable comeback victory over Barcelona at Anfield to reach the Champions League final.
With Liverpool on top in the game, they won a corner and with Barcelona's defenders not concentrating during the short break in play, 14-year-old Cannonier placed the ball quickly down on the corner spot to maintain momentum and Trent Alexander-Arnold crossed for an unmarked Divock Origi to score.
It's a policy Jose Mourinho, who was a ballboy in his youth, has also emplyed throughout his career. He said: "I had a club where they never understood how important the ballboys are.
"You want a quick throw-in, the ball boy needs to know that you want a quick throw-in. The ball needs to arrive fast. The goalkicks, the tempo of the game, the ballboys can also play a part in a good structure."
Bristol Live also understand Coughlan is also looking to bridge the gap between the first team and of the Rovers academy by getting youngsters involved in matchdays at the Mem.
The club is looking at a way of involving youngsters who have given up their time to help and support the club as ballboys and and girls, and they are working with a coordinator to find a way of thanking them for their services to the club.
