Scottish Premiership clubs Celtic and Rangers "will not form part of any revamp of the English league system," following a meeting of Football League clubs, according to Scott McClymont of STV. All 72 league clubs "are in the middle of a major discussion over the future of the sport," labeled the "Whole Game Solution" with proposals including the creation of a brand new fifth division. Plans to increase the number of teams in the league system to 100, with divisions made up of 20 teams, "led to speculation that the Glasgow pair may be invited to join." However, in a statement the English Football League said that "the inclusion of Premier League B Teams, clubs from non-English leagues or those outside the English football pyramid will not form part of any ongoing discussions for the 'Whole Game Solution'" (STV, 9/22). SKY SPORTS' Mark Crellin reported the proposals "could lead to a four-division structure for league football beneath the Premier League," in a bid to improve the format of competitions and the revenue received by clubs. There "could potentially be a vote on the plans" in June '17. EFL CEO Shaun Harvey said on Thursday, "At the very outset of this process it was made clear that any decisions in respect of the future direction of the Whole Game Solution would be taken by clubs themselves and our announcement today comes as a result of their valued input" (SKY SPORTS, 9/22).
