Tonbridge Angels chairman Dave Netherstreet: It is time to put aside our rivalries and for clubs to work together and turn the game that we love into one that is sustainable

TONBRIDGE ANGELS have become the eighth team to join the coalition of football clubs working together to improve the governance of football in England and Wales.

The National League South club has signed up to Fair Game, which already boasts Accrington Stanley, Bury AFC, Cambridge United, Grimsby Town, Luton Town, Newport County and AFC Wimbledon as members.

The group will be working together to find long-term solutions to governance structures, sustainability, integrity and community issues currently in the game.

Fair Game seek to influence and work with the Government’s fan-led review, chaired by Tracey Crough MP, to ensure the opportunity for fair, lasting change is taken.

Tonbridge Angels chairman Dave Netherstreet said in a statement: “This is really a once in a lifetime opportunity to save the game we love and change the way football operates.

“The demise of the likes of Bury and Macclesfield Town and the recently proposed European Super League are real wake-up calls.

“The EFL (English Football League) is run by the clubs and it is up to us to step forward and make that difference – but we can only succeed if we come together.

“It is time to put aside our rivalries and for clubs to work together and turn the game that we love into one that is sustainable.

“So today, we are calling on as many clubs to step forward and join us and plot a path that transforms the game and secures the longevity of our clubs and put fans and the communities they serve first.”

Niall Couper, the director of Fair Game and a board member of the Dons Trust, owners of League One side AFC Wimbledon, added: “It is obvious that football needs to change – and we are delighted that Tonbridge Angels have decided to join us.

“Fair Game is firmly committed to delivering real change.

“Fair Game is not a breakaway but we believe it will be the breakthrough the game needs. 

“Over the next few weeks, we will be holding a series of open workshops, starting tomorrow and developing detailed and realistic solutions to football’s problems.”

For further details and to register, please visit www.fairgameuk.org/events

Visit Tonbridge Angels’ website:  www.tonbridgeangels.co.uk