Could this be the week that our national game, football, at last starts to take genuine steps forward in reforming itself to become a fairer sport where every fan can feel pride in putting on their club shirt safe in the knowledge irrespective of what happens on the pitch that his or her club will be run in a proper and sustainable way. 

Tonbridge Angels is optimistic that the imminent publishing of Tracey Crouch MP’s report into football will be the catalyst for reform that will see for instance a proper owners and directors test, a sustainability index that would include finance, equality, fan engagement and proper governance, equitable distribution of all TV revenues, and protection of a club’s heritage and traditions.

As a fully supporter owned club,  this all matters to The Angels and is the reason we joined up with Fair Game, a grouping of 30 other clubs across the country covering The EFL, The National League and the remainder of the non-League pyramid.  Fair Game wants to see  a financial structure that is fairer and more responsible, protective of the pyramid structure, and created serious fan engagement at all clubs.

It can only be hoped that Tracey’s report will build on these realistic aspirations and perhaps even more importantly the Government will have the courage to take genuine action on the report.   Football, as we know it, started in the 19th century, we are now in the 21st, we now urgently need a reset and there’s everything to play for!

Hopefully we will later this week be able to celebrate England’s confirmation of its place at the 2022 World Cup. Why not a double celebration as football begins its path to reform.