Torquay boss reveals huge plans for the National League after the coronavirus pandemic break is over, and this could be massive.
Gary Johnson has said that he wants the highest step the non league pyramid to become more aligned with the EFL – making it the fifth tier of professional football.
The National League is currently obtaining specialist legal advice, are consulting regularly with the FA and other stakeholders, and is committed to involving its member clubs in a pending decision on how best to conclude the 2019-20 season.
Steps 3 to 7 had their seasons scrapped last week – but the National League are likely to follow whatever the Football League choose to do.
Speaking before the announcement, Johnson said: “We are hoping that they will come back to us pretty soon to take away all the doubt and all the worries – so that we know a little bit more about what they are looking to achieve in the near future and then the long-term future.
“My hope is that they start bringing in the National League with the Football League – and we all come under the same alignment, as it were.
“I think the National League could still have two feeder leagues in the north and south, but I think our league is professional enough and strong enough to be aligned with the Football League.”
“When I first went into the Conference, which is what the National League used to be called, when I was at Yeovil, it was a lot different.
“There were quite a few non-professional teams but now you look at the clubs – Wrexham, Chesterfield, Halifax – and I can’t see any reason why it can’t be can’t come into alignment.
“It can still be called the National League but I want it to come into alignment with the rules and regulations of the Football League.”
What are your thoughts as Torquay boss Gary Johnson reveals huge plans for the National League?
Let us know by commenting on our Facebook page HERE!
You must be logged in to post a comment Login