Premier League Handbook 2015 16
Uploaded by
adewenasPremier League Handbook 2015 16
Uploaded by
adewenasPREMIER
LEAGUE
HANDBOOK Season 2015/16
THE FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION
PREMIER LEAGUE LIMITED
Season 2015/16
Board of Directors
Richard Scudamore (Executive Chairman)
Claudia Arney (Non-Executive Director)
Kevin Beeston (Non-Executive Director)
Auditors
Deloitte LLP
2 New Street Square
London
EC4A 3BZ
Bankers
Barclays Bank plc
27th Floor
1 Churchill Place
London
E14 5HP
Registered Office
30 Gloucester Place
London W1U 8PL
Regd. No. 2719699
Telephone
020 7864 9000
Facsimile
020 7864 9001
Website
www.premierleague.com
Published by The Football Association Premier League Limited
The Football Association Premier League Limited 2015
PREMIER LEAGUE CHAIRMENS CHARTER
SEASON 2015/16
Foreword
The Chairmens Charter is a statement of our commitment and aim to run Premier League
football to the highest possible standards in a professional manner and with the utmost integrity.
With that aim we, the Chairmen of the Clubs in membership of The Premier League, are determined:
(a) To conduct our respective Clubs dealings with the utmost good faith and honesty.
(b) At all times to maintain a rule book which is comprehensive, relevant and up-to-date.
(c) To adopt disciplinary procedures which are professional, fair and objective.
(d) To submit to penalties which are fair and realistic.
(e) To secure the monitoring of and compliance with the rules at all times.
The Charter
The Chairmens Charter sets out our commitment to run Premier League football to the highest
possible standards and with integrity.
We will ensure that our Clubs:
Behave with the utmost good faith and honesty to each other, do not unjustly criticise or
disparage one another and maintain confidences.
Will comply with the laws of the game and take all reasonable steps to ensure that the
Manager, his staff and Players accept and observe the authority and decisions of Match
Officials at all times.
Follow Premier League and FA Rules not only to the letter but also to their spirit, and will
ensure that our Clubs and Officials are fully aware of such rules and that we have effective
procedures to implement the same.
Will respect the contractual obligations and responsibilities of each others employees and
not seek to breach these or to make illegal approaches.
Will discharge their financial responsibilities and obligations to each other promptly and fully
and not seek to avoid them.
Will seek to resolve differences between each other without recourse to law.
CONTENTS
CLUB DIRECTORY................................................. 01
FIXTURES ................................................................ 43
RULES....................................................................... 61
Premier League Rules
Premier League Forms
Youth Development Rules
Youth Development Forms
Appendices to the Rules
75
229
313
401
429
MATCH OFFICIALS ............................................... 493
MEMORANDUM & ARTICLES
OF ASSOCIATION ................................................ 501
MISCELLANEOUS ................................................. 525
STATISTICS ............................................................. 547
CLUB DIRECTORY
CLUB DIRECTORY
AFC BOURNEMOUTH
AFC BOURNEMOUTH
Vitality Stadium
Dean Court
Bournemouth
BH7 7AF
Main Switchboard: 0344 576 1910
Fax: 01202 726373
Ticket Office: 0344 576 1910
www.afcb.co.uk
Chairman
Jeff Mostyn
Chief Executive
Neill Blake
Club Secretary
Neil Vacher
Manager
Eddie Howe
General Manager
Elizabeth Finney
Academy Manager and Head of Coaching
Joe Roach
Head of Finance
Rosie Hardy
01202 726321
Commercial Director
Rob Mitchell
01202 726322
Ticketing Supervisor
Serena Stone
01202 726331
Head of Media and Communications
Max Fitzgerald
01202 726312
Supporter Liaison Officer
Elizabeth Finney
01202 726309
Safety Officer
Alan Jones
Team Doctor
To be advised
Head Physiotherapist
Steve Hard
Qualifications: BSc (Hons) MSST, MCSP, SRP
Head Groundsman
James Lathwell
Qualifications: NVQ Level 3 Turf Management,
National Diploma in Horticulture
Kit Manufacturer
JD Sports
Ground Capacity at start of the Season
11,464
Pitch Dimensions
Length: 105 metres Width: 68 metres
Directors
Jeff Mostyn (Chairman)
John ONeill
Neill Blake (Chief Executive)
Nick Rothwell
Alexey Panferov
Mikhail Ponomarev
Igor Tikhturov
Oleg Tikhturov
AFC BOURNEMOUTH
Shirt Sponsor
Mansion Europe Holdings Limited
Official Company Name and Number
AFC Bournemouth Limited
No. 6632170
Home kit
Alternative kit 1
Alternative kit 2
Side View
AFCB
AFCB
AFCB
AFCB
AFCB
FC
AFC
B
AFCB
A
FC
B
FC
B
FC
A
AFC
B
AFCB
AFCB
AFC
B
AFC
B
Change Sock
Side ViewSide View
Colours: Shirts: Red and black
stripes / Shorts: Black / Socks: Black
Colours: Shirts: Blue and black /
Shorts: Black / Socks: Black
Colours: Shirts: Pink /
Shorts: Pink / Socks: Pink
Home Goalkeeper
Goalkeeper Alternative kit 1
Goalkeeper Alternative kit 2
AFCB
AFCB
B
FC
AFC
B
AFCB
AFCB
AFCB
AFCB
AFCB
AFCB
AFCB
AFCB
FC
FC
AFC
B
AFC
B
AFC
B
FC
FC
Change Sock
AFC
B
Change Sock
Colours: Shirts: Yellow /
Shorts: Yellow / Socks: Yellow
Colours: Shirts: Green /
Shorts: Green / Socks: Green
Colours: Shirts: Black /
Shorts: Black / Socks: Black
ARSENAL
ARSENAL
Highbury House
75 Drayton Park
London N5 1BU
Main Switchboard: 020 7619 5003
Fax: 020 7704 4001
Contact Centre / Ticket Office: 020 7619 5000
Credit Card Bookings: 0844 277 3625
www.arsenal.com
Chairman
Sir Chips Keswick
Chief Executive Officer
Ivan Gazidis
Company Secretary
David Miles
Manager
Arsne Wenger
Assistant Manager
Steve Bould
Academy Manager
Andries Jonker
Chief Financial Officer
Stuart Wisely
020 7704 4060
Chief Commercial Officer
Vinai Venkatesham
020 7619 5003
Media, Marketing and CRM Director
Michael Leavey
020 7619 5003
Ticketing and Services Director
Ivan Worsell
020 7619 5003
4
Stadium and Facilities Director
John Beattie
020 7704 4030
Communications Director
Mark Gonnella
020 7704 4010
General Counsel
Svenja Geissmar
020 7619 5003
Chief Operations / People Officer
Trevor Saving
020 7619 5003
Supporter Liaison Officer
Mark Brindle
020 7619 5003
Event Safety and Security Manager
Sharon Cicco
020 7704 4030
Team Doctor
Gary ODriscoll
Qualifications: MBBS, BSc, DipSEM, FFSEM(Ire)
Head of Medical Services
Colin Lewin
Qualifications: BSc (Hons) MCSP, HCPC
Publications Manager
Andy Exley
Arsenal Football Club, Highbury House,
75 Drayton Park, London N5 1BU
020 7619 5003
Shirt Sponsor
Emirates
Kit Manufacturer
PUMA
Home kit
Ground Capacity at start of the Season
60,260
ARSENAL
Head Groundsman
Paul Ashcroft
Qualifications: National Diploma in Turf,
Science and Grounds Management
Pitch Dimensions
Length: 105 metres Width: 68 metres
Directors
Sir Chips Keswick (Chairman)
Stanley Kroenke
Ivan Gazidis (CEO)
Ken Friar OBE
Richard Carr
Lord Harris of Peckham
Josh Kroenke
Official Company Name and Number
The Arsenal Football Club Plc
No. 109244
Alternative kit 1
Alternative kit 2
To be advised
Colours: Shirts: Red and white /
Shorts: White / Socks: White
Colours: Shirts: Gold and
dark blue / Shorts: Dark blue /
Socks: Dark blue
Home Goalkeeper
Goalkeeper Alternative kit 1
Goalkeeper Alternative kit 2
To be advised
Colours: Shirts: Dark grey /
Shorts: Dark grey / Socks: Dark grey
Colours: Shirts: Blue /
Shorts: Blue / Socks: Blue
ASTON VILLA
ASTON VILLA
Villa Park
Birmingham
B6 6HE
Main Switchboard: 0121 327 2299
Fax: 0121 322 2107
Ticket Office: 0800 612 0970
www.avfc.co.uk
[email protected]
Chief Executive
Tom Fox
Secretary
Sharon Barnhurst
Manager
Tim Sherwood
Assistant Manager
Ray Wilkins MBE
Academy Manager
Sean Kimberley
Chief Finance Officer
Robin Russell
0121 326 1520
Head of Marketing
Russell Jones
0121 326 1545
Head of Consumer Sales (Ticketing)
Nicola Keye
0121 326 1528
Head of Facilities
Richard Carpenter
0121 326 1498
Head of Security and Safety Operations
John Handley
0121 326 1505
6
Head of Media
Tommy Jordan
0121 326 1561
Supporter Liaison Officer
Lee Preece
0121 326 1502
Head of Sport and Exercise Medicine
Dr Roddy MacDonald
Qualifications: MBChB, MRCCGP, DTM&H,
MSc (Sports Medicine), FFSEM
Senior Physiotherapist
Alan Smith
Qualifications: Chartered Physiotherapist,
MRSP, SRP
Head Groundsmen
Paul Mytton (Villa Park)
Qualifications: City & Guilds Greenkeeping 1,2,3
Graeme Farmer (Training Ground)
Qualifications: NVQ Amenity Horticulture 1+2
Programme Editor
Dan Harrison
Villa Park, Birmingham B6 6HE
0121 327 2299
Shirt Sponsor
Intuit QuickBooks
Kit Manufacturer
Macron
Ground Capacity at start of the Season
42,660
ASTON VILLA
Directors
Randy Lerner
Tom Fox (Chief Executive)
Robin Russell (Chief Finance Officer)
Official Company Name and Number
Aston Villa FC Limited
No. 2502822
Pitch Dimensions
Length: 105 metres Width: 68 metres
Home kit
Alternative kit 1
Alternative kit 2
N/A
Colours: Shirts: Claret body
with sky sleeves / Shorts: White /
Socks: Sky with claret hoops
& sky turnover
Colours: Shirts: Yellow /
Shorts: Black / Socks: Yellow
with black turnover
Home Goalkeeper
Goalkeeper Alternative kit 1
Goalkeeper Alternative kit 2
Colours: Shirts: Black with grey
trim / Shorts: Black / Socks: Black
Colours: Shirts: Red /
Shorts: Red / Socks: Red
Colours: Shirts: Orange /
Shorts: Orange / Socks: Orange
CHELSEA
CHELSEA
Stamford Bridge
Fulham Road
London SW6 1HS
Correspondence Address: 60 Stoke Road, Stoke DAbernon,
Cobham, Surrey, KT11 3PT
Football Administration Fax: 01932 596 180
Main Switchboard: 0871 984 1955
Fax: 020 7381 4831
Call Centre / Ticket Sales: 0871 984 1905
www.chelseafc.com
[email protected]
Chairman
Bruce Buck
Member of Board of Directors
in Charge of Football
Marina Granovskaia
Club Secretary
David Barnard
Manager
Jose Mourinho
Assistant Manager
Steve Holland
Technical Director
Michael Emenalo
Head of Youth Development
Neil Bath
Head of Communications and Public Affairs
Steve Atkins
01932 596 101
First Team Doctor
Eva Carneiro
Qualifications: BMed Sci, BMBS, MSc Sports
Med, CCT Sports Med, FFSEM
Head Physiotherapist
Jason Palmer
Qualifications: BPHTY, BHMS (Ed) Hons, MCSP
Head Groundsman
Jason Griffin
Qualifications: NVQ Levels 1 & 2
Safety Officer
Jill Dawson
020 7565 1479
Managing Director
Christian Purslow
Finance & Operations Director
Chris Alexander
020 7915 1969
Head of Venue and Brand
Simon Hunter
020 7915 1988
Head of Ticketing and
Supporter Liaison Officer
Graham Smith
020 7958 2166
Head of Ticket Operations
Kelly Webster
020 7915 1941
Facilities Manager
Chris Gleeson
020 7915 1977
Ground Capacity at start of the Season
41,798
Shirt Sponsor
Yokohama Tyres
Pitch Dimensions
Length: 103 metres Width: 67.5 metres
Directors:
Bruce Buck
Marina Granovskaia
Eugene Tenenbaum
David Barnard
Official Company Name and Number
Chelsea Football Club Limited
No. 1965149
Kit Manufacturer
adidas
Home kit
CHELSEA
Publications Editor
David Antill, Trinity Mirror Sport Media
Stamford Bridge, Fulham Road,
London SW6 1HS
020 7958 2168
Alternative kit 1
Alternative kit 2
To be advised
Colours: Shirts: Chelsea blue /
Shorts: Chelsea blue / Socks: White
Colours: Shirts: White /
Shorts: White / Socks: Chelsea blue
Home Goalkeeper
Goalkeeper Alternative kit 1
Goalkeeper Alternative kit 2
To be advised
Colours: Shirts: Vivid mint /
Shorts: Vivid mint /
Socks: Vivid mint
Colours: Shirts: Black /
Shorts: Black / Socks: Black
CRYSTAL PALACE
CRYSTAL PALACE
Selhurst Park Stadium
Holmesdale Road
London
SE25 6PU
Main Switchboard: 020 8768 6000
Fax: 020 8771 5311
Ticket Office: 0871 200 0071
[email protected]
www.cpfc.co.uk
Chairman
Steve Parish
Chief Executive Officer
Phil Alexander
Club Secretary
Christine Dowdeswell
Manager
Alan Pardew
Assistant Manager
Keith Millen
Academy Director
Gary Issott
Head of Finance
Hari Jani
020 8768 6030
Corporate Sales Manager
Chris Powlson
020 8768 6010
Head of Marketing and Communications
Patrick Jubb
Director of Operations
Paul James
020 8768 6085
10
Ticket Office Manager
Bruce Osborne
020 8768 6084
Stadium Manager
Kevin Corner
020 8768 6091
Head of Safety and Security
Adrian Roberts
Head of Customer Service/
Supporter Liaison Officer
Sharon Lacey
020 8768 6012
Head of Sports Medicine
Dr Zafar Iqbal
Qualifications: MBBS, BSc, DCH, DRCOG,
MRCGP, MSc (SEM), MFSEM (UK), DIP PCR
Head Physiotherapist
Alex Manos
Qualifications: BSc, MPhty
Head Groundsman
Bruce Elliot
020 8768 6000
Content Editor
Terry Byfield
020 8768 6020
CRYSTAL PALACE
Pitch Dimensions
Length: 101 metres Width: 68 metres
Directors:
Steve Parish
Martin Long
Stephen Browett
Phil Alexander
Shirt Sponsor
Mansion
Kit Manufacturer
Macron
Ground Capacity at start of the Season
25,073
Official Company Name and Number
CPFC Limited
No. 7270793
Home kit
Alternative kit 1
Colours: Shirts: Red and blue /
Shorts: Blue / Socks: Blue
Colours: Shirts: White with
red and blue stripe / Shorts: White /
Socks: White
Home Goalkeeper
Goalkeeper Alternative kit 1
Colours: Shirts: Green /
Shorts: Green / Socks: Green
Colours: Shirts: Yellow /
Shorts: Yellow / Socks: Yellow
11
EVERTON
EVERTON
Goodison Park
Goodison Road
Liverpool L4 4EL
Main Switchboard: 0151 556 1878
Fax: 0151 281 1046
Ticket Office: 0151 556 1878
Credit Card Bookings: 0151 556 1878
www.evertonfc.com
[email protected]
Chairman
Bill Kenwright CBE
Chief Executive
Robert Elstone
Deputy Chief Executive
Dr Denise Barrett-Baxendale MBE BA (Hons)
MBA, EdD, FRSA
Club Secretary/Head of Football Operations
David Harrison
0151 530 5207
Manager
Roberto Martinez
Assistant Manager
Graeme Jones
Academy Manager
Tim Devine
0151 448 7692
Finance Director
Grant Ingles
0151 530 5286
Director of Marketing and Communications
Richard Kenyon
0151 530 5233
12
Head of Ticketing
Matt Kendall
0151 330 2498
Community Chief Executive
Dr Denise Barrett-Baxendale MBE BA (Hons)
MBA, EdD, FRSA
0151 530 5225
Stadium Safety Officer
David Lewis
0151 530 5223
Stadium Manager
Alan Bowen
0151 530 5267
Head of Media and Communications
Brian Doogan
0151 530 5241
Supporter Liaison Officer
Christine Prior
0151 530 5346
Team Doctor
Dr Ian Irving
Qualifications: MBChB, BSc Pharm
Head of Performance
Richard Evans
Qualifications: BSc(Hons), MCSP, CSP, FA Dip
Head Groundsman
Bob Lennon
Qualifications: OND, NDH, RHS
Ground Capacity at start of the Season
39,571
Shirt Sponsor
Chang
Kit Manufacturer
Umbro
EVERTON
Fan Engagement and Publications Manager
Darren Griffiths
0151 530 5312
Pitch Dimensions
Length: 100.48 metres Width: 68 metres
Directors
Bill Kenwright CBE (Chairman)
Jon Woods (Deputy Chairman)
Robert Earl
Official Company Name and Number
The Everton Football Club Company Limited
No. 36624
Home kit
Alternative kit 1
Alternative kit 2
Colours: Shirts: Royal blue /
Shorts: White with royal blue
waist band / Socks: White with
royal blue trim
Colours: Shirts: White /
Shorts: Black / Socks: White
with silver trim
Colours: Shirts: Dark green /
Shorts: Black / Socks: Dark green
with black trim
Home Goalkeeper
Goalkeeper Alternative kit 1
Goalkeeper Alternative kit 2
Colours: Shirts: Yellow /
Shorts: Yellow / Socks: Yellow
Colours: Shirts: Black /
Shorts: Black / Socks: Black
Colours: Shirts: Green /
Shorts: Green / Socks: Green
13
LEICESTER CITY
LEICESTER CITY
King Power Stadium
Filbert Way
Leicester LE2 7FL
Correspondence address: LCFC Training Ground, Middlesex Road, Aylestone, Leicester LE2 8HN
Main Switchboard: 0344 815 5000
Facsimile No: 0116 291 5278
Ticket Office No: 0344 815 5000
Credit Card Bookings: 0344 815 5000 Options 1, 2 & 3
www.lcfc.com
Chairman
Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha
Vice Chairman
Aiyawatt Srivaddhanaprabha
Chief Executive
Susan Whelan
Director of Football
Jon Rudkin
Football Operations Director
Andrew Neville
Manager
Claudio Ranieri
Assistant Managers
Steve Walsh
Craig Shakespeare
Operations Director and Safety Officer
Kevin Barclay
0116 229 4442
Head of Marketing
Jamie Tabor
0116 229 4538
Head of Ticketing
Vishal Dayal
0116 229 4407
Head of Media
Anthony Herlihy
0116 229 4944
Supporter and Disability Liaison Officer
Jim Donnelly
0116 229 4555
Academy Manager
Gareth Jennings
Team Doctor
Ian Patchett
Qualifications: MB Ch B Dip. Sport Med
Finance Director
Simon Capper
0116 229 4737
Head Physiotherapist
Dave Rennie
Qualifications: BSc (Hons) MCSP, HCPC
Commercial Director
Ian Flanagan
0116 229 4419
Groundsman
John Ledwidge
Qualifications: NVQ Level 3 Sports
Turf Management
14
Directors
Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha (Chairman)
Aiyawatt Srivaddhanaprabha (Vice Chairman)
Shilai Liu (Vice Chairman)
Susan Whelan (Chief Executive)
Supornthip Choungrangsee (Executive Director)
Apichet Srivaddhanaprabha (Executive Director)
Kit Manufacturer
PUMA
Ground Capacity at start of the Season
32,312
Pitch Dimensions
Length: 105 metres Width: 68 metres
Home kit
Official Company Name and Number
Leicester City Football Club Limited
No. 4593477
Alternative kit 1
Alternative kit 2
US UK EUR JP FR
M M M 33 M
US UK EUR JP FR
M M M 33 M
SAMPLE
Colours: Shirts: Royal blue and gold / Colours: Shirts: Black and grey /
Shorts: Royal blue and gold /
Shorts: Black and white / Socks:
Socks: Royal blue and gold /
Black and white
Colours: Shirts: White and royal
blue / Shorts: White and royal blue /
Socks: White and royal blue
Home Goalkeeper
Goalkeeper Alternative kit 2
US UK EUR JP FR
M M M 33 M
Colours: Shirts: Black and grey /
Shorts: Black and grey / Socks:
Black and grey
Goalkeeper Alternative kit 1
US UK EUR JP FR
M M M 33 M
Colours: Shirts: Lilac and black /
Shorts: Lilac and black /
Socks: Lilac and black
US UK EUR JP FR
M M M 33 M
Colours: Shirts: Lime and black /
Shorts: Lime and black /
Socks: Lime and black
15
LEICESTER CITY
Shirt Sponsor
King Power
LIVERPOOL
LIVERPOOL
Anfield Road
Anfield
Liverpool L4 0TH
Correspondence Address: PO Box 1959, Liverpool L69 3JL
Main Switchboard: 0151 263 2361
Fax: 0151 260 8813
Ticket Office / Booking Line: 0843 170 5555
Customer Services / Memberships: 0843 170 5000
www.liverpoolfc.com
[email protected]
Chairman
Tom Werner
Chief Executive Officer
Ian Ayre
Interim Secretary
Danny Stanway
Manager
Brendan Rodgers
Assistant Manager
To be advised
Academy Director
Alex Inglethorpe
Chief Financial Officer
Andy Hughes
0151 264 2305
Chief Commercial Officer
Billy Hogan
0203 713 4901
Head of Ticketing and Hospitality
Phil Dutton
0151 237 5963
Ticketing Manager
Keri Garrity
0151 907 9355
16
Hospitality Sales Manager
Sue Johnston
0151 907 9311
Stadium Manager
Jason Judge
0151 264 2029
Safety Officer
Vaughan Pollard
0151 264 2494
Director of Communications
Susan Black
0151 907 9307
Head of Press
Matt McCann
0151 230 5760
Supporter Liaison Officer
Yonit Sharabi
0843 170 5000
Head Groundsman
Dave McCulloch
Qualifications: NVQ level 3 in Sports Turf
Management
Team Doctor
To be advised
Senior Physiotherapist
Chris Morgan
Qualifications: BSC (HONS), MSC, MCSP, HPC,
ACPSM
Directors
John Henry
Tom Werner
David Ginsberg
Ian Ayre
Michael Gordon
Mike Egan
Kenny Dalglish
Programme Editor
David Cottrell, Trinity Mirror
Shirt Sponsor
Standard Chartered
Kit Manufacturer
New Balance
Official Company Name and Number
The Liverpool Football Club & Athletic
Grounds Limited
No. 35668
Ground Capacity at start of the Season
44,742
Home kit
LIVERPOOL
Pitch Dimensions
Length: 101 metres Width: 68 metres
Alternative kit 1
Alternative kit 2
Colours: Shirts: Red /
Shorts: Red / Socks: Red
Colours: Shirts: White /
Shorts: White / Socks: White
Colours: Shirts: Black /
Shorts: Black / Socks: Black
Home Goalkeeper
Goalkeeper Alternative kit 1
Goalkeeper Alternative kit 2
Colours: Shirts: Black /
Shorts: Black / Socks: Black
Colours: Shirts: Green /
Shorts: Green / Socks: Green
Colours: Shirts: Yellow /
Shorts: Yellow / Socks: Yellow
17
MANCHESTER CITY
MANCHESTER CITY
The Etihad Stadium
Etihad Campus
Manchester M11 3FF
Correspondence Address: City Football Group, 400 Ashton New Road,
City Football Academy, Etihad Campus, Manchester M11 4TQ
Main Switchboard: 0161 444 1894
Fax: 0161 438 7999
Ticket Office: 0161 444 1894
Credit Card Bookings: 0161 444 1894
www.mcfc.co.uk
[email protected]
Chairman
H.E. Khaldoon Al Mubarak
Chief Executive Officer
Ferran Soriano
Head of Football Administration
Andrew Hardman
Manager
Manuel Pellegrini
Assistant Managers
Brian Kidd and Ruben Cousillas
Head of Elite Development
Patrick Viera
Chief Financial Officer
Jorge Chumillas
0161 444 1894
Head of Marketing
Justice Ellis
0161 444 1894
Director of Sales and Operations
Danny Wilson
0161 438 7667
18
Head of Facilities Management
Clive Wilton
0161 444 1894
Safety Officer
Steve McGrath
0161 444 1894
Head of Media Relations
Simon Heggie
0161 444 1894
Supporter Liaison Officer
Lisa Eaton
0161 444 1894
Club Doctor
Dr Max Sala
Qualifications: Doctor of Medicine & Surgery
(University of Ferrara, Italy) with a specialisation
in Sports Medicine (University of Pavia)
Senior Physiotherapist
Lee Nobes
Qualifications: BSc (Hons) MCSP, SRP, MAACP
Programme Editor
Ian Guildford, Ignition Publications
[email protected]
01899 568 195
Shirt Sponsor
Etihad Airways
Kit Manufacturer
Nike
Ground Capacity at start of the Season
55,097 (estimated)
MANCHESTER CITY
Head Groundsman
Lee Jackson
Qualifications: NVQ Level 2, 3 & 4 Sportsturf,
Foundation Degree in Sportsturf Science,
PA 1, 2 & 6 Chemical Application Licences
Pitch Dimensions
Length: 105 metres Width: 68 metres
Directors
H.E. Khaldoon Al Mubarak
Simon Pearce
Martin Lee Edelman
John Macbeath
Mohamed Al Mazrouei
Alberto Galassi
Official Company Name and Number
Manchester City Football Club Limited
No. 40946
Home kit
Alternative kit 1
Alternative kit 2
To be advised
Colours: Shirts: Field blue with
white trim / Shorts: White with field
blue trim / Socks: Field blue with
white trim
599911_1_FA15_A_P_CLUB_GEN_SOCK_704438
GEN_SOCK_704438
Home Goalkeeper
Colours: Shirts: Dark obsidian with
chlorine blue trim / Shorts: Dark
obsidian with chlorine blue trim /
Socks: Dark obsidian with chlorine
blue trim
Goalkeeper Alternative kit 1
Last revised date: 24-04-2014
Last revised date: 24-04-2014
Goalkeeper Alternative kit 2
To be advised
Colours: Shirts: Court purple with
iced lavendar trim / Shorts: Court
purple with iced lavendar trim /
Socks: Court purple
51L Court Purple
67W Deep Burgundy
62F Pimento
6DC Bright Crimson
10G Football White
6CD Bright Crimson
10G Football White
Colours: Shirts: Chrome yellow
with black trim / Shorts: Chrome
yellow with black trim /
Socks: Chrome yellow
3FM Lucid Green
35A Tourmaline
10G Football White
53K Iced Lavender
10G Football White
04Z Pure Platinum
73C Chrome Yellow
00A Black
01V Wolf Grey
76I University Gold
09C Light Charcoal
00A Black
00A Black
10G Football White
19
MANCHESTER UNITED
MANCHESTER UNITED
Sir Matt Busby Way
Old Trafford
Manchester M16 0RA
Main Switchboard: 0161 868 8000
Fax: 0161 868 8804
Ticket Office: 0161 868 8000 Option 1
Credit Card Bookings: 0161 868 8000 Option 1
www.manutd.co.uk
[email protected]
Co-Chairmen
Joel Glazer
Avram Glazer
Stadium Manager
Ian Collins
0161 868 8360
Executive Vice Chairman
Ed Woodward
Head of Stadium Safety and Security
Phil Rainford
0161 868 8116
Secretary
John Alexander
Manager
Louis van Gaal
Assistant Manager
Ryan Giggs
Academy Manager
To be advised
Group Managing Director
Richard Arnold
0161 868 8211
Director of Finance
Steve Deaville
0161 868 8327
Ticket Office Manager
Sam Kelleher
0161 868 8000
20
Director of Communications
Philip Townsend
0161 868 8216
Supporter Liaison Officer
Philip Townsend
0161 868 8216
Club Doctor
Dr Steve McNally
Qualifications: B.Med Sci BM BS MRCGP DCH
DRCOG DOccMed Dip.SEM.GB&I MFSEM
(RCPI & RCSI) MFSEM(UK)
Head Physiotherapist
Neil Hough
Qualifications: Graduate Diploma
in Physiotherapy
Grounds Manager
Anthony Sinclair
Qualifications: Intermediate Diploma
in Sportsground Staff
Programme Editor
Paul Davies
Sir Matt Busby Way, Old Trafford,
Manchester M16 0RA
0161 868 8551
Shirt Sponsor
CHEVROLET
Kit Manufacturer
adidas
Ground Capacity at start of Season
75,653
Pitch Dimensions
Length: 105 metres Width: 68 metres
Home kit
MANCHESTER UNITED
Directors
Joel Glazer (Co-Chairman)
Avram Glazer (Co-Chairman)
Bryan Glazer
Kevin Glazer
Edward Glazer
Darcie Glazer Kassewitz
Ed Woodward
Richard Arnold
Jamie Reigle
Sir Bobby Charlton CBE
David Gill
Michael Edelson
Sir Alex Ferguson CBE
Official Company Name and Number
Manchester United Football Club Limited
No. 95489
Alternative kit 1
To be advised
Alternative kit 2
To be advised
Colours: Shirts: Red / Shorts: White
(Alternative shorts: Black) /
HOME Socks: Black
REAL RED (S10) A2QN
WHITE 001A
BLACK 095A
Home Goalkeeper
Goalkeeper Alternative kit 1
To be advised
Goalkeeper Alternative kit 2
To be advised
Colours: Shirts: Green /
Shorts: Green / Socks: Green
GK HOME
SEMI FLASH LIME F15
GREEN 020A
WHITE 001A
21
NEWCASTLE UNITED
NEWCASTLE UNITED
St James Park
Newcastle Upon Tyne
NE1 4ST
Main Switchboard: 0844 372 1892
Fax: 0191 201 8600
Ticket Office: 0844 372 1892 (Option 1)
www.nufc.co.uk
[email protected]
Managing Director
Lee Charnley
Head Coach
Steve McClaren
Football Secretary
Richard Hines
Academy Manager
Joe Joyce
Head of Finance
Claire Alexander
0844 372 1892 (Extn 8681)
Head of Media
Wendy Taylor
0844 372 1892 (Extn 8420)
Supporter Liaison Officer
Lee Marshall
0844 372 1892 (Extn 8579)
Senior Physiotherapist
Derek Wright
Qualifications: MSCP DipRGRT PG Dip Sport
Ex Med.
Head of Partnerships
Dale Aitchison
0844 372 1892 (Extn 8436)
Head Groundsman
Michael Curran
Qualifications: City & Guilds - Levels 1, 2, 3:
Amenity Horticulture & Groundsmanship, IOG
NPC, IOG NTC
Box Office Manager
Stephen Tickle
0844 372 1892 (Extn 8455)
Foundation Manager
Kate Bradley
0844 372 1892 (Extn 8477)
Facilities Manager
Eddie Rutherford
0844 372 1892 (Extn 8558)
Club Doctor
Dr Paul Catterson
Qualifications: MBBS, MRCP, FCEM, Dip SEM,
MFSEM
Safety Officer
Steve Storey
0844 372 1892 (Extn 8528)
22
Programme Managing Editor
Anthony Marshall
St James Park, Newcastle Upon Tyne NE1 4ST
0844 372 1892 (Extn 8407)
Shirt Sponsor
Wonga
Kit Manufacturer
PUMA
Ground Capacity at start of the Season
52,338
Pitch Dimensions
Length: 105 metres Width: 68 metres
NEWCASTLE UNITED
Directors
Lee Charnley
Steve McClaren
Graham Carr
Bob Moncur
Official Company Name and Number
Newcastle United Football Company Limited
No. 31014
Home kit
Alternative kit 1
Alternative kit 2
Colours: Shirts: Black and white
with royal blue detail / Shorts: Black
with white side trim / Socks: Black
with royal blue turnover
Colours: Shirts: White with ocean
blue detail / Shorts: ocean blue with
white side trim / Socks: White with
ocean blue turnover
Colours: Shirts: Peacoat blue
with white and pink sash /
Shorts: Peacoat Blue / Socks:
Peacoat Blue with pink turnover
Home Goalkeeper
Goalkeeper Alternative kit 1
Goalkeeper Alternative kit 2
N/A
Colours: Shirts: Yellow with
ebony detail / Shorts: Yellow /
Socks: Yellow with ebony turnover
Colours: Shirts: Grey with ebony
detail / Shorts: Grey / Socks: Grey
with ebony turnover
23
NORWICH CITY
NORWICH CITY
Carrow Road
Norwich
NR1 1JE
Main Switchboard: 01603 760760
Fax: 01603 613886
Ticket Office: 0870 444 1902
www.canaries.co.uk
[email protected]
Chairman
Alan Bowkett
Chief Executive
David McNally
Secretary
Andrew Blofeld
Manager
Alex Neil
First Team Coaches
Frankie McAvoy and Gary Holt
Academy Manager
Gregg Broughton
Finance Director
Steve Stone
01603 218709
Operations Manager
Stuart Clarke
01603 218786
Safety Officer
Andy Batley
01603 218204
Press Officer
Joe Ferrari
01603 218746
Supporter Liaison Officer
Stephen Graham
01603 760760 (Ext 2255)
Team Doctor
To be advised
Senior Physiotherapist
To be advised
Director of Commercial
Ben Kensell
01603 218718
Head Groundsman
Gary Kemp
Ticket Office Manager
Danny Casey
01603 218703
Programme Editor
Peter Rogers
Carrow Road, Norwich NR1 1JE
01603 218748
24
Kit Manufacturers
Errea
Ground Capacity at start of the Season
27,010
Pitch Dimensions
Length: 105 metres Width: 68 metres
Directors
Alan Bowkett
Michael Foulger
David McNally
Stepan Phillips
Delia Smith
Michael Wynn-Jones
Stephen Fry
NORWICH CITY
Shirt Sponsor
Aviva
Official Company Name and Number
Norwich City Football Club Plc
No. 154044
Home kit
Alternative kit 1
Alternative kit 2
Colours: Shirts: Yellow and green /
Shorts: Green / Socks: Yellow
Colours: Shirts: Green /
Shorts: Yellow / Socks: Green
Colours: Shirts: Yellow, green and
orange / Shorts: Black / Socks: Black
Home Goalkeeper
Goalkeeper Alternative kit 1
Goalkeeper Alternative kit 2
Colours: Shirts: Lime green /
Shorts: Lime green / Socks: Black
Colours: Shirts: Pink /
Shorts: Pink / Socks: Grey
Colours: Shirts: Grey /
Shorts: Grey / Socks: Pink
25
SOUTHAMPTON
SOUTHAMPTON
St Marys Stadium
Britannia Road
Southampton SO14 5FP
Main Switchboard: 0845 688 9448
Fax: 02380 727727
Ticket Office: 0845 688 9288
Credit Card Bookings: 02381 780780
www.saintsfc.co.uk
Chairman
Ralph Krueger
Chief Executive Officer
Gareth Rogers
Club Secretary
Ros Wheeler
02380 711931
Manager
Ronald Koeman
Assistant Manager
Erwin Koeman
Academy Manager
Matt Hale
Marketing Director
Kate Tarry
Ticket Office Manager
Michael Jolliffe
02380 727796
Safety Officer / Security Manager
Mark Hannibal MBE
0845 688 9448
26
Club Spokesman
Jordan Sibley
0845 688 9448
Supporter Liaison Officer
Khali Parsons
0845 688 9448
Team Doctor
Steve Baynes
Qualifications: BM BS, MRCGP, DipSEM,
MFSEM(UK)
Physiotherapists
Tom Sturdy
Qualifications: BSc (Hons), MSc, MCSP, HCPC
Steve Wright
Qualifications: BSc (Hons), KCMT MCSP, HCPC
Grounds Manager
Andy Gray
Qualifications: NVQL3 Sports Ground
Management, NCH - PA1, PA2A & PA6A
Shirt Sponsor
Veho
Kit Manufacturer
adidas
Ground Capacity at start of the Season
32,505
Pitch Dimensions
Length: 105 metres Width: 68 metres
Home kit
SOUTHAMPTON
Directors
Katharina Liebherr
Ralph Krueger
Gareth Rogers
Les Reed
Official Company Name and Number
Southampton Football Club Limited
No. 53301
Alternative kit 1
Alternative kit 2
N/A
Colours: Shirts: Red and white /
Shorts: Black / Socks: Red
Colours: Shirts: Green and navy /
Shorts: Navy / Socks: Green
Home Goalkeeper
Goalkeeper Alternative kit 1
Goalkeeper Alternative kit 2
Colours: Shirts: Blue /
Shorts: Blue / Socks: Blue
Colours: Shirts: Yellow /
Shorts: Yellow / Socks: Yellow
Colours: Shirts: Black /
Shorts: Black / Socks: Black
27
STOKE CITY
STOKE CITY
Britannia Stadium
Stanley Matthews Way
Stoke-on-Trent ST4 4EG
Main Switchboard: 01782 367598
Fax (Football Administration): 01782 646988
Fax (General Depts): 01782 592221
Ticket Office: 01782 367599
www.stokecityfc.com
[email protected]
Chairman
Peter Coates
Vice Chairman
John Coates
Chief Executive
Tony Scholes
Secretary
Eddie Harrison
Manager
Mark Hughes
Assistant Manager
Mark Bowen
Academy Director
Dave Wright
Head of Finance
Martin Goodman
01782 592261
Chief Commercial Officer
Paul Lakin
01782 592219
Ticket Office Manager
Josh Whittaker-Vyse
01782 367599
28
Head of Facilities
Craig Jepson
01782 592110
Head of Health, Safety and Security
Ravi Sharma
01782 592274
Head of Media and Communications
Fraser Nicholson
01782 592172
Supporter Liaison Officer
Anthony Emmerson
01782 592135
Team Doctor
Dr Andrew Dent
Qualifications: MBCh.B, MRCGP, MFSEM(UK),
Dip Sports Medicine
Senior Physiotherapist
Dave Watson
Qualifications: BPHTY, MNZSP, MCSPM
Head Groundsman
Andrew Jackson
Qualifications: Sports Turf NVQ Level 1 & 2
Programme Editor
Fraser Nicholson
c/o Stoke City FC
01782 592172
Directors
Peter Coates
John Coates
Tony Scholes
Richard Smith
Shirt Sponsor
bet365
Kit Manufacturer
New Balance
Official Company Name and Number
Stoke City Football Club Limited
No. 99885
Ground Capacity at start of the Season
27,740
Home kit
STOKE CITY
Pitch Dimensions
Length: 105 metres Width: 68 metres
Alternative kit 1
Colours: Shirts: Red and
white stripes / Shorts: White /
Socks: Red with white stripe
Colours: Shirts: Black with green
sash, grey panels / Shorts: Black
with green and grey trim /
Socks: Black with green trim
Home Goalkeeper
Goalkeeper Alternative kit 1
Colours: Shirts: Blue /
Shorts: Blue / Socks: Blue
Colours: Shirts: Orange /
Shorts: Orange / Socks: Orange
29
SUNDERLAND
SUNDERLAND AFC
Stadium of Light
Sunderland
SR5 1SU
Main Switchboard: 0871 911 1200
Fax: 0191 551 5123
Credit Card Bookings: 0871 911 1973
Clubcall: 09068 121881
www.safc.com
[email protected]
Chairman
Ellis Short
Chief Executive
Margaret Byrne
Sporting Director
Lee Congerton
0191 542 8006
Head of Football Operations
and Club Secretary
Ryan Sachs
0191 542 8111
Head Coach
Dick Advocaat
Assistant Head Coach
Zeljko Petrovic
Academy Manager
Ged McNamee
Finance Director
Angela Lowes
0871 911 1202
Commercial Director
Gary Hutchinson
30
Ticket Office Manager
Phil Clarkson
0871 911 1258
Facilities Manager
Peter Weymes
0871 911 1201
Safety Manager
Paul Weir
0871 911 1211
Media and Communications Manager
Louise Wanless
0871 911 1227
Supporter Liaison Officer
Chris Waters
0871 911 1534
Team Doctor
Dr Ish Rehman
Qualifications: MBChB MRCGP MFSEM Dip Sp Med
Head of First Team Physiotherapy
Peter Brand
Qualifications: BSc (Hons) Physiotherapy
MCSP SRP
Head Groundsman
Adrian Partridge
Qualifications: C&G Greenkeeping Level 1,2&3
Shirt Sponsor
dafabet
Kit Manufacturer
adidas
Ground Capacity at start of the Season
48,707
Home kit
Pitch Dimensions
Length: 105 metres Width: 68 metres
SUNDERLAND
Programme Editor
Rob Mason
Stadium of Light, Sunderland SR5 1SU
0871 911 1226
Directors
Ellis Short
Per-Magnus Andersson
Margaret Byrne
Angela Lowes
Gary Hutchinson
Official Company Name and Number
Sunderland AFC Limited
No. 49116
Alternative kit 1
Alternative kit 2
N/A
Colours: Shirts: White and red
stripes / Shorts: Black (Alternative
shorts: White) / Socks: Black
(Alternative socks: Red)
Colours: Shirts: Green /
Shorts: Green / Socks: Green
Home Goalkeeper
Goalkeeper Alternative kit 1
Goalkeeper Alternative kit 2
Colours: Shirts: Blue /
Shorts: Blue / Socks: Blue
Colours: Shirts: Dark grey /
Shorts: Dark grey / Socks: Dark grey
Colours: Shirts: Red /
Shorts: Red / Socks: Red
31
SWANSEA CITY
SWANSEA CITY
Liberty Stadium
Landore
Swansea SA1 2FA
Main Switchboard: 01792 616600
Fax: 01792 616606
Ticket Office: 0844 815 6665
www.swanseacity.net
[email protected]
Chairman
Huw Jenkins
Football Administration Manager
Alun Cowie
Secretary
Jackie Rockey
Manager
Garry Monk
Assistant Manager
Josep Clotet
Academy Manager
Nigel Rees
Finance Director
Don Keefe
01792 616474
Commercial Director
Leigh Dineen
01792 616600
Legal Director
Steve Penny
Stadium Customer Services/Ticketing
Catherine Thomas
01792 616420
32
Stadium General Manager
Andrew Davies
01792 616401
Stadium Operations Manager
Matthew Daniel
01792 616417
Safety Officer
Mike Ash
07904 856209
Media Manager
Jonathan Wilsher
01792 616611 / 07831 555464
Supporter Liaison Officer
Huw Cooze
07792 047134
Head Of Medical
Dr Jez McCluskey
Qualifications: MBBCh, MRCGP, DRCOG,
MSc (SEM)
Physiotherapist
Kate Rees
Qualifications: MSc, MCSP
Head Groundsman
Dan Kirton
Qualifications: NVQ Level 3 Horticulture
Programme Editor
Jack Wells
01792 616619
Shirt Sponsor
Goldenway (GWFX)
Kit Manufacturer
adidas
Ground Capacity at start of the Season
20,909
Official Company Name and Number
Swansea City Association Football Club Ltd
No. 123414
Pitch Dimensions
Length: 105 metres Width: 68 metres
Home kit
FOOTBALL APPAREL
SWANSEA CITY
Directors
Huw Jenkins
Leigh Dineen (Vice Chairman)
Brian Katzen
Gwilym Joseph
Martin Morgan
Huw Cooze
Don Keefe
Steve Penny
John Van Zweden
Alternative kit 1
Alternative kit 2
2015
SWANSEA CITY AFC
ANTEHM
HOME JACKET_KNIT
JERSEY:
S1506GHTM418/Y
FOOTBALL APPAREL
2015
SWANSEA CITY AFC
AWAY JACKET_KNIT
ANTEHM
F1506GHTM201/Y
N/A
SHORT:
S1506GHTM419/Y
SOCK:
T2SO0001 - AA0046
SHORT:
F1506GHTM202/Y
SOCK:
F1306GHTM510
AA2995
30
03
COLOURS
COLOURS
white 001A
Cardboard A5NT
Collegiate Navy 54F0
Colours: Shirts: White with copper Colours: Shirts: Navy with green
trim / Shorts: White with copper
stripes / Shorts: Green with navy
trim / Socks: White with copper trim trim / Socks: Navy with green stripes
Intense Green A3F6
white 001A
CC | WoS DESIGN | MARK STURGESS I
CONFIDENTIAL 2012adidas AG.
PRODUCT DEVELOPER
| PD NAME
Home Goalkeeper
DESIGN | MARK STURGESS I
FILENAMECC|| WoS
swansea_H_A15.ai
CONFIDENTIAL 2012adidas AG.
PRODUCT DEVELOPER
NAME
REVISED | PD
| 08.05.2014
TIME | 16:04
FILENAME | swansea_H_A15.ai
REVISED | 08.05.2014
Goalkeeper Alternative kit 1
TIME | 16:04
Goalkeeper Alternative kit 2
Colours: Shirts: Red with blue trim / Colours: Shirts: Black and grey with Colours: Shirts: Yellow with
Shorts: Red with blue trim /
pink trim / Shorts: Black and grey
grey trim / Shorts: Yellow with grey
Socks: Red with blue trim
with pink trim / Socks: Black and
trim / Socks: Yellow with grey trim
grey with pink trim
33
TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR
TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR
Lilywhite House
782 High Road
Tottenham
London N17 0BX
Main Switchboard: 0844 499 5000
Fax: 020 3544 8563
Ticket Office: 0844 499 5000
www.tottenhamhotspur.com
[email protected]
Chairman
Daniel Levy
Director of Football Operations
Rebecca Caplehorn
Football Secretary
Rebecca Britain
020 3544 8667
Head Coach
Mauricio Pochettino
Assistant Head Coach
Jess Prez
Academy Manager
John McDermott
Operations and Finance Director
Matthew Collecott
020 8365 5322
Head of Marketing
Emma Taylor
020 8365 5085
Head of Ticketing and Membership
Ian Murphy
020 8365 5095
34
Stadium Director
Jon Babbs
020 8365 5039
Safety Officer
Sue Tilling
020 8365 5082
Head of Press
Simon Felstein
020 3544 8541
Supporter Liaison Officer
Jonathan Waite
020 8365 5092
Head of Medical and Sports Science
Dr Shabaaz Mughal
Qualifications: MBBS, MRCGP, MSc (SEM),
FFSEM(UK), CESR
Head Physiotherapist
Geoff Scott
Qualifications: MSc, MBA, MCSP
Grounds Manager
Darren Baldwin
Qualifications: City & Guilds in
Groundsmanship & Sports Turf Management
Programme Editor
Jon Rayner
020 3544 8538
Directors
Daniel Levy
Matthew Collecott
Donna-Maria Cullen
Rebecca Caplehorn
Shirt Sponsor
AIA
Kit Manufacturer
Under Armour
Ground Capacity at start of the Season
36,284
Home kit
TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR
Pitch Dimensions
Length: 100 metres Width: 67 metres
Official Company Name and Number
Tottenham Hotspur Football & Athletic Co Ltd
No. 57186
Alternative kit 1
Alternative kit 2
To be advised
Colours: Shirts: White /
Shorts: Navy blue / Socks: White
Colours: Shirts: Blue /
Shorts: Navy blue / Socks: Blue
Home Goalkeeper
Goalkeeper Alternative kit 1
Goalkeeper Alternative kit 2
To be advised
Colours: Shirts: Dark green /
Shorts: Dark green /
Socks: Dark green
Colours: Shirts: Yellow /
Shorts: Yellow / Socks: Yellow
35
WATFORD
WATFORD
Vicarage Road Stadium
Watford
Hertfordshire
WD18 0ER
Main Switchboard: 01923 496000
Fax: 01923 496001
Ticket Office: 01923 223023
www.watfordfc.com
Chairman
Raffaele Riva
Chief Executive
Scott Duxbury
Football Secretary
Gayle Vowels
Head Coach
Quique Sanchez Flores
Assistant Head Coaches
Antonio Diaz and Alberto Giraldez
Academy Manager
Chris McGuane
Head of Finance
Katie Wareham
01923 496241
Commercial Director
Alan McTavish
01923 496367
Communications Director
Richard Walker
01923 496220
Supporter Liaison Officer
Dave Messenger
01923 496397
Event Safety and Security Manager
Stephen Crabtree
01923 496263
Team Doctors
Ritan Mehta
Qualifications: MBBS, BSc, MRCGP, MSc (SEM),
FFSEM
Ian Hamilton
Qualifications: MBBS, MRCGP, MSc (SEM),
MFSEM
Physiotherapist
Richard Collinge
Qualifications: MSc Sports Physiotherapy, BSc
(Hons) Physiotherapy, MCSP SRP
Ticket Office Manager
Joanne Simonds
01923 496250
Head Groundsman
Arpasa
Stadium And Operations Director
Glyn Evans
01923 496374
Publications Manager
Steve Scott
01923 496279
36
Shirt Sponsor
138.com
Directors
Raffaele Riva
Scott Duxbury
David Fransen (Non-executive director)
Stuart Timperley (Non-executive director)
Kit Manufacturer
Puma
Ground Capacity at start of the Season
21,500
Pitch Dimensions
Length: 105 metres Width: 68 metres
Official Company Name and Number
The Watford Association Football Club Limited
No. 104194
Home kit
Alternative kit 1
Colours: Shirts: Yellow and Black /
Shorts: Black (Alternative shorts: Yellow) /
Socks: Black (Alternative socks Yellow)
Colours: Shirts: Black /
Shorts: Black (Alternative shorts: White) /
Socks: Black (Alternative socks: White)
Home Goalkeeper
Goalkeeper Alternative kit 1
US UK EUR JP FR
M M M 33 M
Colours: Shirts: Blue /
Shorts: Blue / Socks: Blue
Colours: Shirts: Purple /
Shorts: Purple / Socks: Purple
37
WEST BROMWICH ALBION
WEST BROMWICH ALBION
The Hawthorns
West Bromwich
West Midlands
B71 4LF
Main Switchboard: 0871 271 1100
Fax: 0871 271 9851
Ticket Office: 0121 227 2227
Credit Card Bookings: 0121 227 2227
Clubcall: SMS breaking news alerts text CLUB WBA to 88442 (texts cost 25p each)
www.wba.co.uk
[email protected]
Chairman
Jeremy Peace
Chief Executive
Mark Jenkins
Director of Football Administration
Richard Garlick
General Counsel / Secretary
Simon Carrington
Head Coach
Tony Pulis
Academy Manager
Mark Harrison
Financial Controller
Peter Band
Sales and Marketing Director
Adrian Wright
0871 271 9871
Box Office Manager
Jo Barr
0871 271 9782
Stadium Manager / Safety Officer
Mark Miles
0871 271 9849
Head of Communications
Martin Swain
0871 271 9833 / 07710 821215
Supporter Liaison Officer
Chris Lepkowski
07778 207127
Club Doctor
Mark Gillett
Qualifications: BSc. Hons, FRCSEd,
FFAEM, MSc (Sports Med), Dip IMC, RCSEd
Senior Physiotherapist
Richard Rawlins
Qualifications: BSc (Hons), MSCP, SRP
Head Groundsman
Rob Lane
38
Shirt Sponsor
TLCBET
Kit Manufacturer
adidas
Ground Capacity at start of the Season
26,850
Home kit
WEST BROMWICH ALBION
Programme Editor
Dave Bowler
The Hawthorns, West Bromwich, B71 4LF
07813 709393
Pitch Dimensions
Length: 105 metres Width: 68 metres
Directors
Jeremy Peace (Chairman)
Mark Jenkins
Richard Garlick
Adrian Wright
Official Company Name and Number
West Bromwich Albion Football Club Limited
No. 3295063
Alternative kit 1
Alternative kit 2
N/A
Colours: Shirts: Navy and
white stripes / Shorts: White /
Socks: White
Colours: Shirts: Red and black
pinstripes / Shorts: Black /
Socks: Black
Home Goalkeeper
Goalkeeper Alternative kit 1
Goalkeeper Alternative kit 2
Colours: Shirts: Black with pink
trim / Shorts: Black / Socks: Black
Colours: Shirts: Blue /
Shorts: Blue / Socks: Blue
Colours: Shirts: Green /
Shorts: Green / Socks: Green
39
WEST HAM
WEST HAM UNITED
Boleyn Ground
Green Street
Upton Park
London E13 9AZ
Main Switchboard: 020 8548 2748
Fax: 020 8548 2758
Ticket Office: 0871 529 1966
www.whufc.com
[email protected]
Joint Chairmen
David Sullivan and David Gold
Vice Chairman
Baroness Brady CBE
Managing Director
Angus Kinnear
Chief Operating Officer
Ben Illingworth
Club Secretary
Andrew Pincher
Manager
Slaven Bilic
Assistant Manager
To be advised
Academy Director
Terry Westley
Chief Financial Officer
Andy Mollett
020 8548 2768
Commercial Director
Felicity Croft
020 8586 8209
40
Executive Director, Marketing
and Communications
Tara Warren
020 8586 8234
Head of Ticketing
Gavin Stanley
020 8548 2736
Stadium Manager / Safety Officer
Ron Pearce
020 8548 2744
Press and Media Manager
Paul Stringer
020 8586 8117
Club Doctor
Richard Weiler
Qualifications: MB ChB, FFSEM (UK),
MSc SEM, MRCGP, PGCME, FHEA
Supporter Liaison Officer
Sascha Gustard-Brown
020 8548 2349
Head of Medical and Sports Science
Stijn Vandenbroucke
Programme Editor
Rob Pritchard
07595 821867
Shirt Sponsor
Betway
Kit Manufacturer
Umbro
Ground Capacity at start of the Season
35,345
Home kit
Pitch Dimensions
Length: 100.58 metres Width: 68 metres
WEST HAM
Head Groundsman
Dougie Robertson
Qualifications: HNC in Sports Turf Science
Directors
David Sullivan
David Gold
Baroness Brady CBE
Angus Kinnear
Andy Mollett
Daniel Svanstrom
Daniel Harris
Official Company Name and Number
West Ham United Football Club Limited
No. 66516
Alternative kit 1
Alternative kit 2
To be advised
Colours: Shirts: Claret with
sky blue sleeves / Shorts: White /
Socks: Claret
Colours: Shirts: Sky blue with
claret chest band / Shorts: Sky blue /
Socks: Sky blue
Home Goalkeeper
Goalkeeper Alternative kit 1
Goalkeeper Alternative kit 2
To be advised
Colours: Shirts: Green /
Shorts: Green / Socks: Green
Colours: Shirts: Navy blue /
Shorts: Navy blue / Socks: Navy blue
41
42
CLUB DIRECTORY
FIXTURES
FIXTURES
BARCLAYS PREMIER LEAGUE
FIXTURE LIST SEASON 2015/16
FIXTURES
Please be aware that fixtures are always subject to change and these will appear in the national
press and on premierleague.com.
You are welcome to contact our Public Information Line (020 7864 9147) for up to date fixtures.
Kick off times for Saturdays and Bank Holidays - 3.00pm unless stated otherwise.
Kick off times for evening games - 7.45pm unless stated otherwise.
Saturday 8 August 2015
Manchester United
Tottenham Hotspur
AFC Bournemouth
Aston Villa
12:45
BT
Everton
Watford
Leicester City
Sunderland
Norwich City
Crystal Palace
Chelsea
Swansea City
17:30
Sky
Arsenal
Newcastle United
West Ham United
13:30
Sky
Southampton
13:30
Stoke City
Liverpool
16:00
Sky
Manchester City
20:00
Sky
Manchester United
19:45
Sky
Southampton
Everton
12:45
BT
Sunderland
Norwich City
Swansea City
Newcastle United
Tottenham Hotspur
Stoke City
Watford
West Bromwich Albion
West Ham United
Leicester City
Sunday 9 August 2015
Monday 10 August 2015
West Bromwich Albion
Friday 14 August 2015
Aston Villa
Saturday 15 August 2015
44
BARCLAYS PREMIER LEAGUE
Sunday 16 August 2015
v
Arsenal
13:30
Sky
Manchester City
Chelsea
16:00
Sky
AFC Bournemouth
20:00
Sky
Manchester United
Newcastle United
12:45
BT
Crystal Palace
Aston Villa
Leicester City
Tottenham Hotspur
Norwich City
Stoke City
Sunderland
Swansea City
West Ham United
AFC Bournemouth
FIXTURES
Crystal Palace
Monday 17 August 2015
Liverpool
Saturday 22 August 2015
Sunday 23 August 2015
West Bromwich Albion
Chelsea
13:30
Sky
Everton
Manchester City
16:00
Sky
Watford
Southampton
16:00
Liverpool
20:00
Sky
Newcastle United
Arsenal
12:45
BT
AFC Bournemouth
Leicester City
Aston Villa
Sunderland
Chelsea
Crystal Palace
Liverpool
West Ham United
Manchester City
Watford
Stoke City
West Bromwich Albion
Tottenham Hotspur
Everton
17:30
Sky
Southampton
Norwich City
13:30
Sky
Swansea City
Manchester United
16:00
Sky
Monday 24 August 2015
Arsenal
Saturday 29 August 2015
Sunday 30 August 2015
45
BARCLAYS PREMIER LEAGUE
FIXTURES
Saturday 12 September 2015
Everton
Chelsea
Arsenal
Stoke City
12:45
BT
Crystal Palace
Manchester City
Norwich City
AFC Bournemouth
Watford
Swansea City
West Bromwich Albion
Southampton
Manchester United
Liverpool
17:30
Sky
Sunday 13 September 2015
Sunderland
Tottenham Hotspur
13:30
Sky
Leicester City
Aston Villa
16:00
Sky
Newcastle United
20:00
Sky
12:45
BT
Monday 14 September 2015
West Ham United
Saturday 19 September 2015
Chelsea
Arsenal
AFC Bournemouth
Sunderland
Aston Villa
West Bromwich Albion
Newcastle United
Watford
Stoke City
Leicester City
Swansea City
Everton
Manchester City
West Ham United
17:30
Sky
Sky
Sunday 20 September 2015
Tottenham Hotspur
Crystal Palace
13:30
Liverpool
Norwich City
16:00
Southampton
Manchester United
16:00
Sky
12:45
BT
17:30
Sky
Saturday 26 September 2015
Tottenham Hotspur
Manchester City
Leicester City
Arsenal
Liverpool
Aston Villa
Manchester United
Sunderland
Southampton
Swansea City
Stoke City
AFC Bournemouth
West Ham United
Norwich City
Newcastle United
Chelsea
46
BARCLAYS PREMIER LEAGUE
Sunday 27 September 2015
Watford
Crystal Palace
16:00
Sky
Everton
20:00
Sky
AFC Bournemouth
Watford
Arsenal
Manchester United
Aston Villa
Stoke City
Chelsea
Southampton
Crystal Palace
West Bromwich Albion
Everton
Liverpool
Manchester City
Newcastle United
Norwich City
Leicester City
Sunderland
West Ham United
Swansea City
Tottenham Hotspur
Chelsea
Aston Villa
Crystal Palace
West Ham United
Everton
Manchester United
Manchester City
AFC Bournemouth
Newcastle United
Norwich City
Southampton
Leicester City
Swansea City
Stoke City
Tottenham Hotspur
Liverpool
Watford
Arsenal
West Bromwich Albion
Sunderland
AFC Bournemouth
Tottenham Hotspur
Arsenal
Everton
Aston Villa
Swansea City
Leicester City
Crystal Palace
Liverpool
Southampton
Manchester United
Manchester City
Norwich City
West Bromwich Albion
Stoke City
Watford
Monday 28 September 2015
FIXTURES
West Bromwich Albion
Saturday 3 October 2015
Saturday 17 October 2015
Saturday 24 October 2015
47
BARCLAYS PREMIER LEAGUE
FIXTURES
Saturday 24 October 2015
Sunderland
Newcastle United
West Ham United
Chelsea
Chelsea
Liverpool
Crystal Palace
Manchester United
Everton
Sunderland
Manchester City
Norwich City
Newcastle United
Stoke City
Southampton
AFC Bournemouth
Swansea City
Arsenal
Tottenham Hotspur
Aston Villa
Watford
West Ham United
West Bromwich Albion
Leicester City
Saturday 31 October 2015
Saturday 7 November 2015
AFC Bournemouth
Newcastle United
Arsenal
Tottenham Hotspur
Aston Villa
Manchester City
Leicester City
Watford
Liverpool
Crystal Palace
Manchester United
West Bromwich Albion
Norwich City
Swansea City
Stoke City
Chelsea
Sunderland
Southampton
West Ham United
Everton
Saturday 21 November 2015
Chelsea
Norwich City
Crystal Palace
Sunderland
Everton
Aston Villa
Manchester City
Liverpool
Newcastle United
Leicester City
Southampton
Stoke City
Swansea City
AFC Bournemouth
Tottenham Hotspur
West Ham United
Watford
Manchester United
West Bromwich Albion
Arsenal
48
BARCLAYS PREMIER LEAGUE
Saturday 28 November 2015
v
Everton
Aston Villa
Watford
Crystal Palace
Newcastle United
Leicester City
Manchester United
Liverpool
Swansea City
Manchester City
Southampton
Norwich City
Arsenal
Sunderland
Stoke City
Tottenham Hotspur
Chelsea
West Ham United
West Bromwich Albion
FIXTURES
AFC Bournemouth
Saturday 5 December 2015
Arsenal
Sunderland
Chelsea
AFC Bournemouth
Everton
Crystal Palace
Manchester United
West Ham United
Newcastle United
Liverpool
Southampton
Aston Villa
Stoke City
Manchester City
Swansea City
Leicester City
Watford
Norwich City
West Bromwich Albion
Tottenham Hotspur
Saturday 12 December 2015
AFC Bournemouth
Manchester United
Aston Villa
Arsenal
Crystal Palace
Southampton
Leicester City
Chelsea
Liverpool
West Bromwich Albion
Manchester City
Swansea City
Norwich City
Everton
Sunderland
Watford
Tottenham Hotspur
Newcastle United
West Ham United
Stoke City
49
BARCLAYS PREMIER LEAGUE
FIXTURES
Saturday 19 December 2015
Arsenal
Manchester City
Chelsea
Sunderland
Everton
Leicester City
Manchester United
Norwich City
Newcastle United
Aston Villa
Southampton
Tottenham Hotspur
Stoke City
Crystal Palace
Swansea City
West Ham United
Watford
Liverpool
West Bromwich Albion
AFC Bournemouth
Saturday 26 December 2015
AFC Bournemouth
Crystal Palace
Aston Villa
West Ham United
Chelsea
Watford
Liverpool
Leicester City
Manchester City
Sunderland
Newcastle United
Everton
Southampton
Arsenal
Stoke City
Manchester United
Swansea City
West Bromwich Albion
Tottenham Hotspur
Norwich City
Monday 28 December 2015
Arsenal
AFC Bournemouth
Crystal Palace
Swansea City
Everton
Stoke City
Leicester City
Manchester City
Manchester United
Chelsea
Norwich City
Aston Villa
Sunderland
Liverpool
Watford
Tottenham Hotspur
West Bromwich Albion
Newcastle United
West Ham United
Southampton
50
BARCLAYS PREMIER LEAGUE
Saturday 2 January 2016
v
Newcastle United
Crystal Palace
Chelsea
Everton
Tottenham Hotspur
Leicester City
AFC Bournemouth
Manchester United
Swansea City
Norwich City
Southampton
Sunderland
Aston Villa
Watford
Manchester City
West Bromwich Albion
Stoke City
West Ham United
Liverpool
AFC Bournemouth
West Ham United
Aston Villa
Crystal Palace
Swansea City
Sunderland
Liverpool
Arsenal
FIXTURES
Arsenal
Tuesday 12 January 2016
20:00
Wednesday 13 January 2016
Chelsea
West Bromwich Albion
Manchester City
Everton
Newcastle United
Manchester United
Southampton
Watford
Stoke City
Norwich City
Tottenham Hotspur
Leicester City
AFC Bournemouth
Norwich City
Aston Villa
Leicester City
Chelsea
Everton
Liverpool
Manchester United
Manchester City
Crystal Palace
Newcastle United
West Ham United
Southampton
West Bromwich Albion
Stoke City
Arsenal
Swansea City
Watford
Tottenham Hotspur
Sunderland
20:00
Saturday 16 January 2016
51
BARCLAYS PREMIER LEAGUE
FIXTURES
Saturday 23 January 2016
Arsenal
Chelsea
Crystal Palace
Tottenham Hotspur
Everton
Swansea City
Leicester City
Stoke City
Manchester United
Southampton
Norwich City
Liverpool
Sunderland
AFC Bournemouth
Watford
Newcastle United
West Bromwich Albion
Aston Villa
West Ham United
Manchester City
Arsenal
Southampton
Leicester City
Liverpool
Norwich City
Tottenham Hotspur
Sunderland
Manchester City
Watford
Chelsea
West Ham United
Aston Villa
Crystal Palace
AFC Bournemouth
20:00
Manchester United
Stoke City
20:00
West Bromwich Albion
Swansea City
20:00
Tuesday 2 February 2016
Wednesday 3 February 2016
Everton
Newcastle United
AFC Bournemouth
Arsenal
Aston Villa
Norwich City
Chelsea
Manchester United
Liverpool
Sunderland
Manchester City
Leicester City
Newcastle United
West Bromwich Albion
Southampton
West Ham United
Stoke City
Everton
Swansea City
Crystal Palace
Tottenham Hotspur
Watford
Saturday 6 February 2016
52
BARCLAYS PREMIER LEAGUE
Saturday 13 February 2016
v
Stoke City
Arsenal
Leicester City
Aston Villa
Liverpool
Chelsea
Newcastle United
Crystal Palace
Watford
Everton
West Bromwich Albion
Manchester City
Tottenham Hotspur
Norwich City
West Ham United
Sunderland
Manchester United
Swansea City
Southampton
FIXTURES
AFC Bournemouth
Saturday 27 February 2016
Leicester City
Norwich City
Liverpool
Everton
Manchester United
Arsenal
Newcastle United
Manchester City
Southampton
Chelsea
Stoke City
Aston Villa
Tottenham Hotspur
Swansea City
Watford
AFC Bournemouth
West Bromwich Albion
Crystal Palace
West Ham United
Sunderland
AFC Bournemouth
Southampton
Arsenal
Swansea City
Aston Villa
Everton
Leicester City
West Bromwich Albion
Norwich City
Chelsea
Sunderland
Crystal Palace
West Ham United
Tottenham Hotspur
Liverpool
Manchester City
20:00
Manchester United
Watford
20:00
Newcastle United
Tuesday 1 March 2016
Wednesday 2 March 2016
Stoke City
53
BARCLAYS PREMIER LEAGUE
FIXTURES
Saturday 5 March 2016
Chelsea
Stoke City
Crystal Palace
Liverpool
Everton
West Ham United
Manchester City
Aston Villa
Newcastle United
AFC Bournemouth
Southampton
Sunderland
Swansea City
Norwich City
Tottenham Hotspur
Arsenal
Watford
Leicester City
West Bromwich Albion
Manchester United
AFC Bournemouth
Swansea City
Arsenal
West Bromwich Albion
Aston Villa
Tottenham Hotspur
Leicester City
Newcastle United
Liverpool
Chelsea
Manchester United
Crystal Palace
Norwich City
Manchester City
Stoke City
Southampton
Sunderland
Everton
West Ham United
Watford
Chelsea
West Ham United
Crystal Palace
Leicester City
Everton
Arsenal
Manchester City
Manchester United
Newcastle United
Sunderland
Southampton
Liverpool
Swansea City
Aston Villa
Tottenham Hotspur
AFC Bournemouth
Watford
Stoke City
West Bromwich Albion
Norwich City
Saturday 12 March 2016
Saturday 19 March 2016
54
BARCLAYS PREMIER LEAGUE
Saturday 2 April 2016
v
Manchester City
Arsenal
Watford
Aston Villa
Chelsea
Leicester City
Southampton
Liverpool
Tottenham Hotspur
Manchester United
Everton
Norwich City
Newcastle United
Stoke City
Swansea City
Sunderland
West Bromwich Albion
West Ham United
Crystal Palace
Aston Villa
AFC Bournemouth
Crystal Palace
Norwich City
Liverpool
Stoke City
Manchester City
West Bromwich Albion
Southampton
Newcastle United
Sunderland
Leicester City
Swansea City
Chelsea
Tottenham Hotspur
Manchester United
Watford
Everton
West Ham United
Arsenal
AFC Bournemouth
Liverpool
Arsenal
Crystal Palace
Chelsea
Manchester City
Everton
Southampton
Leicester City
West Ham United
Manchester United
Aston Villa
Newcastle United
Swansea City
Norwich City
Sunderland
Stoke City
Tottenham Hotspur
West Bromwich Albion
Watford
FIXTURES
AFC Bournemouth
Saturday 9 April 2016
Saturday 16 April 2016
55
BARCLAYS PREMIER LEAGUE
FIXTURES
Saturday 23 April 2016
AFC Bournemouth
Chelsea
Aston Villa
Southampton
Crystal Palace
Everton
Leicester City
Swansea City
Liverpool
Newcastle United
Manchester City
Stoke City
Norwich City
Watford
Sunderland
Arsenal
Tottenham Hotspur
West Bromwich Albion
West Ham United
Manchester United
Arsenal
Norwich City
Chelsea
Tottenham Hotspur
Everton
AFC Bournemouth
Manchester United
Leicester City
Newcastle United
Crystal Palace
Southampton
Manchester City
Stoke City
Sunderland
Swansea City
Liverpool
Watford
Aston Villa
West Bromwich Albion
West Ham United
AFC Bournemouth
West Bromwich Albion
Aston Villa
Newcastle United
Crystal Palace
Stoke City
Leicester City
Everton
Liverpool
Watford
Manchester City
Arsenal
Norwich City
Manchester United
Sunderland
Chelsea
Tottenham Hotspur
Southampton
West Ham United
Swansea City
Saturday 30 April 2016
Saturday 7 May 2016
56
BARCLAYS PREMIER LEAGUE
Sunday 15 May 2016
v
Aston Villa
Chelsea
Leicester City
Everton
Norwich City
Manchester United
AFC Bournemouth
Newcastle United
Tottenham Hotspur
Southampton
Crystal Palace
Stoke City
West Ham United
Swansea City
Manchester City
Watford
Sunderland
West Bromwich Albion
Liverpool
FIXTURES
Arsenal
57
FIXTURES
ENGLANDS FULL INTERNATIONAL FIXTURE LIST 2015/16
San Marino
England
Saturday 5 September 2015
EC
England
Switzerland
Tuesday 8 September 2015
EC
England
Estonia
Friday 9 October 2015
EC
Lithuania
England
Monday 12 October 2015
EC
EC = European Championship Qualifier
THE FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION CHALLENGE CUP
Dates for Matches in Competition Proper - Season 2015/16
Round One
Saturday 7 November 2015
Round Two
Saturday 5 December 2015
Round Three
Saturday 9 January 2016
Round Four
Saturday 30 January 2016
Round Five
Saturday 20 February 2016
Round Six
Saturday 12 March 2016
Semi-final
Saturday 23 and Sunday 24 April 2016
Final
Saturday 21 May 2016
THE FOOTBALL LEAGUE CUP
Season 2015/16
Round One
Wednesday 12 August 2015
Round Two
Wednesday 26 August 2015
Round Three
Wednesday 23 September 2015
Round Four
Wednesday 28 October 2015
Round Five
Wednesday 2 December 2015
Semi-final (1st Leg)
Wednesday 6 January 2016
Semi-final (2nd Leg)
Wednesday 27 January 2016
Final
Sunday 28 February 2016
58
EUROPEAN CLUB COMPETITION DATES 2015/16
English Representatives
UEFA Champions League Chelsea, Manchester City, Arsenal and Manchester United
Europa League Tottenham Hotspur, Liverpool, Southampton and West Ham United
Europa League 1st Qual. Stage (1st Leg)
Thursday 2 July 2015
Thursday 9 July 2015
Thursday 16 July 2015
Europa League 2nd Qual. Stage (2nd Leg)
Thursday 23 July 2015
Europa League 3rd Qual. Stage (1st Leg)
Thursday 30 July 2015
Europa League 3rd Qual. Stage (2nd Leg)
Thursday 6 August 2015
UEFA Champions League Play-Off (1st Leg)
Wednesday 19 August 2015
Europa League Play-Off (1st Leg)
Thursday 20 August 2015
UEFA Champions League Play-Off (2nd Leg)
Wednesday 26 August 2015
Europa League Play-Off (2nd Leg)
Thursday 27 August 2015
UEFA Champions League - Match 1
Wednesday 16 September 2015
Europa League - Match 1
Thursday 17 September 2015
UEFA Champions League - Match 2
Wednesday 30 September 2015
Europa League - Match 2
Thursday 1 October 2015
UEFA Champions League - Match 3
Wednesday 21 October 2015
Europa League - Match 3
Thursday 22 October 2015
UEFA Champions League - Match 4
Wednesday 4 November 2015
Europa League - Match 4
Thursday 5 November 2015
UEFA Champions League - Match 5
Wednesday 25 November 2015
Europa League - Match 5
Thursday 26 November 2015
UEFA Champions League - Match 6
Wednesday 9 December 2015
Europa League - Match 6
Thursday 10 December 2015
UEFA Champions League Last 16 (1st Leg)
Wednesday 17 / 24 February 2016
Europa League - Last 32 (1st Leg)
Thursday 18 February 2016
Europa League - Last 32 (2nd Leg)
Thursday 25 February 2016
UEFA Champions League Last 16 (2nd Leg)
Wednesday 9 / 16 March 2016
Europa League - Last 16 (1st Leg)
Thursday 10 March 2016
Europa League - Last 16 (2nd Leg)
Thursday 17 March 2016
UEFA Champions League Quarter-final (1st Leg)
Wednesday 6 April 2016
Europa League - Quarter-final (1st Leg)
Thursday 7 April 2016
UEFA Champions League Quarter-final (2nd Leg)
Wednesday 13 April 2016
Europa League - Quarter-final (2nd Leg)
Thursday 14 April 2016
UEFA Champions League Semi-final (1st Leg)
Wednesday 27 April 2016
Europa League - Semi-final (1st Leg)
Thursday 28 April 2016
UEFA Champions League Semi-final (2nd Leg)
Wednesday 4 May 2016
Europa League - Semi-final (2nd Leg)
Thursday 5 May 2016
Europa League - Final
Wednesday 18 May 2016
UEFA Champions League Final
Saturday 28 May 2016
FIXTURES
Europa League 1st Qual. Stage (2nd Leg)
Europa League 2nd Qual. Stage (1st Leg)
59
60
FIXTURES
RULES
RULES
RULES OF THE PREMIER LEAGUE
CONTENTS
PREMIER LEAGUE RULES
DEFINITIONS AND INTERPRETATION
76
Section A:
Definitions and Interpretation
76
Definitions
76
RULES INDEX
Interpretation
91
THE LEAGUE: GOVERNANCE, OPERATIONS AND FINANCE
92
Section B:
92
Section C:
Section D:
The League Governance
Name and Membership
92
Board Powers
93
Procedure at General Meetings
93
Relationship between Clubs and the League
93
Football Association Representation
94
The League Competition
96
The League Competition
96
Determination and Accreditation of Goals
96
The League Championship
97
Relegation
97
Play-offs
97
The League Finance
98
Obligations of the League
98
Obligations of Clubs
98
Accounting Practice
99
Operating and Other Expenses
99
Transmission of League Matches
99
Distribution of UK Broadcasting Money
99
Distribution of Overseas Broadcasting Money
101
Distribution of Title Sponsorship Money
101
Distribution of Commercial Contract Money
101
Distribution of Radio Contract Money
102
Relegated Clubs
102
Value Added Tax
102
Distribution Account
102
Assignments of Central Funds
103
CLUBS: FINANCE AND GOVERNANCE
104
Section E:
Clubs Finance
104
Power to Inspect
104
Club Bank Accounts
104
Submission of Club Accounts
104
62
CONTENTS
Section G:
Section H:
Section I:
Section J:
107
HMRC
108
Power to Deduct
108
Events of Insolvency
109
Sporting Sanction
112
General
113
Profitability and Sustainability
113
Owners and Directors Test
116
Disqualifying Events
116
Submission of Declaration
117
Change of Directors Circumstances
118
Disqualification of a Director
118
Disciplinary Provisions
118
Suspension of the Club
119
Appeal against Disqualification of a Director
119
Persons Prohibited by Law from entering the United Kingdom etc
121
Disclosure of Ownership
122
Disclosure of Ownership
122
Directors Reports
124
Material Transactions
124
Record of Material Transactions
124
Transfer Policy
124
Associations and Influence
126
Associations between Clubs
126
Club Officials
126
Dual Interests
126
Club Contracts
126
Miscellaneous
128
Employment of Officials
128
Betting
128
UEFA Club Licence Applicants
129
Football Foundation
129
CLUBS: OPERATIONS
130
Section K:
Stadium Criteria and Broadcasters Requirements
130
Safety Certificate
130
Ownership of Ground and Training Facilities
130
Ground Sharing
130
63
RULES INDEX
Section F:
Short Term Cost Control
RULES INDEX
CONTENTS
64
Ground Registration
130
All Seater Grounds
130
Ground Regulations
131
Covered Stadia
131
Dressing Rooms
131
Drug-testing Room
131
Security
131
The Pitch
132
Pitch Protection
132
Artificial Surfaces
133
Goal Line Technology
133
Trainers Bench Facilities
133
Technical Areas
134
Sanitary Facilities
134
Facilities for the Disabled
134
CCTV
134
Giant Screens
134
Media Facilities General
135
Television Gantry
138
UK TV Commentary Positions
138
Overseas TV Commentary Positions
139
Radio Commentary Positions
139
TV Broadcasters Pitchside Presentation Positions
140
Tunnel Interview Positions
140
Camera Positions: Match Coverage
140
Camera Positions: Team and Supporter Arrivals
140
Television Studios
141
Overseas Broadcasters: Observer Seats
141
Reporter Positions
141
Mixed Zone
141
Access to Tunnel Interview Positions
142
Hardwiring
143
Power Supply
143
Car Park Spaces
143
Outside Broadcast Compound
144
Official Club Team Sheets
144
Media Working Area
144
CONTENTS
Section M:
145
Press Seats
145
Facilities for Photographers
145
Broadcaster Preview Access
146
Pre-Match Media Conference
147
Interviews - General
147
Matchday Pre-Match Interviews
147
Post-Match Interviews, Mixed Zone and Post-Match Media Conference
148
Promotional Photographs and Footage
149
League Pre-Season Media Event
150
Floodlights
151
Fixtures
154
Arranging Fixtures
154
Arranging other Matches
154
Other Competitions
155
Postponement of League Matches
155
Failure to play a League Match
156
Replaying a League Match
156
Match Delegate
156
Full Strength Teams
156
Minimum Age
156
Team Sheet
156
Substitute Players
157
Kick-Off
157
Processional Entry
157
Use of Official Ball
157
Occupation of the Technical Area
157
Duration of League Matches
158
Notification of League Match results
158
Gate Statements
158
Penalties
158
Compensation for Postponed Matches
158
Players Identification and Strip
160
Player Identification
160
Home and Alternative Strip
160
Strip Advertising
162
65
RULES INDEX
Section L:
Media Conference Room
CONTENTS
RULES INDEX
Section N:
Section O:
Section P:
Section Q:
Section R:
66
Match Officials
164
Appointment of Match Officials
164
Rules binding on Match Officials
164
Payments to Match Officials
164
Pre-Match Procedures
164
Compliance with Instructions
165
Post-Match Procedures
165
Medical
166
Doctors - General
166
Team Doctor
166
Medical Coordinator
166
Crowd Doctor
167
Physiotherapists
167
Emergency Care Protocol
168
Attendance of Medical Personnel and Provision of Medical Facilities
168
Head Injuries
169
Medical Records
170
Medical Insurance
170
Managers
172
Codes of Conduct
172
Coaching Qualifications
172
Contracts of Employment and Submission to the Secretary
172
Contents of Contracts of Employment
172
Meetings Re Refereeing Matters
172
Broadcasters and Media
173
Disputes
173
Assistant Manager/Head Coach
173
Scouts
174
Definition
174
Registration of Scouts
174
Identification of Scouts
174
Code of Conduct
174
Customer Relations
176
Supporter Liaison
176
Requirement for Customer Charter
176
Reporting
176
Ticketing
176
CONTENTS
Merchandise
Section S:
178
Relations with Stakeholders
179
The Safeguarding of Vulnerable Groups and Safer Recruitment
180
Definitions
180
Clubs Policies and Procedures for the Safeguarding of Children and Adults
181
181
Adults at Risk Safeguarding Manager
182
Staff
183
Parental Consent
184
Notification of Referrals to External Statutory Agencies
184
Monitoring
184
Disclosure and Barring Service
185
PLAYERS CONTRACTS, REGISTRATIONS AND TRANSFERS
188
Section T:
Section U:
Players Contracts
188
Approaches to Players
188
Approaches by Players
188
Public Statements
188
Inducements
188
Form of Contract
189
Length of Contract
189
Players Remuneration
189
Signing-on Fees
189
Lump Sum Payments
190
Image Contracts
190
Signing the Contract
190
Reporting Fines etc.
190
Submission to Secretary
190
Mutual Termination
190
Appeal against Termination
191
Appeal against Disciplinary Decision
191
Disputes between Clubs and Players
191
Orders for Costs
191
Appeal
192
Effect of Termination
192
Testimonial Matches
192
Players Registrations
194
Requirement for Registration
194
67
RULES INDEX
Childrens Safeguarding Manager
RULES INDEX
CONTENTS
Section V:
Types of Registration
194
International Transfer Certificate
195
Eligibility to work in the United Kingdom
195
Registration Procedure
195
Multiplicity of Registrations
196
Monthly Registrations
196
Termination of Registrations
196
New Registrations Requiring Consent
197
List of Players
197
Clubs Ceasing to be Members
198
Prohibition of Third Party Investment
198
Players Transfers of Registrations
200
Transfer Windows
200
Temporary Transfers
200
Contract Players
201
Retired Players
202
Out of Contract Players
202
The Players Options
202
The Clubs Options
203
The Compensation Fee
203
Method of Payment
304
Transfer Levy
205
DISCIPLINARY AND THE RESOLUTION OF DISPUTES
206
Section W:
68
Disciplinary
206
Power of Inquiry
206
Boards Disciplinary Powers
206
Fixed Penalty Procedure
206
Summary Jurisdiction
206
Provision of Information
207
The Panel
207
Appointing a Commission
208
Commission Procedures
209
Commissions Powers
212
Appeals
213
Appeal Boards Powers
214
Admissibility of Evidence
215
CONTENTS
Section X:
Section Z:
215
Publication and Privilege
215
Arbitration
216
Definitions
216
Agreement to Arbitrate
216
Standing
217
Commencement of the Arbitration
217
Appointing the Arbitrators
217
Appointing a Single Arbitrator
218
Replacing an Arbitrator
218
Communications
218
Directions
218
The Tribunals General Powers
218
Duty of the Parties
219
Default of the Parties
219
The Hearing
219
Remedies
220
Majority Decision
220
Provisional Awards
220
The Award
220
Costs
220
Challenging the Award
221
Representation
221
Waiver
221
Managers Arbitration Tribunal
222
Managers Arbitration Tribunal
222
Premier League Appeals Committee
224
Jurisdiction
224
Composition of the Committee
224
Committee Procedures
224
Fees and Expenses
226
Committees Powers
226
PREMIER LEAGUE FORMS
Form 1:
List of Authorised Signatories (Rule A.1.17)
Form 2:
Notification of Club Bank Account (Rule E.2)
230
231
Form 3:
Return of player services costs and image contract payments (Rule E.20)
232
69
RULES INDEX
Section Y:
Legal Representation
RULES INDEX
CONTENTS
Form 4:
Appeal under Rule E.40
236
Form 4A:
Calculation of Aggregated Adjusted Earnings Before Tax (Rule E.53.3)
237
Form 5:
Owners and Directors Declaration (Rules A.1.55, F.2 and F.3)
238
Form 6:
Dual Interest Notice (Rules G.1 and G.4)
240
Form 7:
Directors Report (Rule H.6, H.7, H.8, H.9)
241
Form 8:
Registration of Pitch Dimensions (Rule K.18)
242
Form 8A:
Annual Floodlighting Report (Rule K.124)
243
Form 9:
Team Sheet (Rule L.21)
251
Form 10:
Notification of League Match Result (Rule L.37)
252
Form 11:
Gate Statement (Rule L.38)
253
254
Form 12:
Notification of Shirt Numbers Allocated (Rule M.6)
Form 13:
Registration of Strips (Rule M.17)
255
Form 14:
Notification by Visiting Club to Home Club of Strip (Rule M.24)
256
Form 15:
Appointment of Match Officials (Rule N.3)
257
Form 16:
Scout Registration Form (Rule Q.3)
258
Form 17:
Cancellation of Scout Registration (Rule Q.6)
259
Form 18:
Childrens Officer Notification (Rule S.8)
260
Form 19:
Staff Register (Children) (Rule S.10.7)
261
Form 20:
Adults at Risk Safeguarding Manager (Rule S.13)
262
Form 21:
Staff Register Adults at Risk (Rule S.14.6)
263
264
Form 22:
Parents Consent Form (Rule S.19.1)
Form 23:
Notification of Referral (Rule S.21)
265
Form 24:
Lead Disclosure Officer Notification (Rule S.26.1)
266
Form 25:
The Football League Contract
267
Form 26:
Premier League Contract
273
Form 27:
Player Ethnicity Monitoring Questionnaire (Rule T.23)
295
Form 28:
Amateur Registration Form (Rule U.15)
296
Form 29:
Transfer Agreement (Rule V.11.1)
297
Form 30:
Offer of New Contract (Rule V.17.2)
298
Form 31:
Application for Free Transfer (Rule V.20)
299
Form 32:
Contingent Sum Notification (Rule V.36.2)
300
Form 33:
Fixed Penalty Notice (Rule W.4)
301
Form 34:
Summary Jurisdiction Notice (Rule W.9)
302
Form 35:
Complaint (Rule W.25)
303
Form 36:
Answer (Rule W.29)
304
Form 37:
Appeal Against Fixed Penalty (Rule W.65)
305
70
CONTENTS
Form 38:
Appeal Against Commission Decision (Rule W.66)
306
Form 39:
Request for Arbitration (Rules X.8 or Y.3)
307
Form 40:
Appointment of Arbitrator (Rules X.10 or Y.6)
308
Form 41:
Appointment of Single Arbitrator (Rule X.15.1)
309
Form 42:
Notice of Preliminary Meeting (Rules X.20 or Y.13)
310
GENERAL
314
Definitions
314
General
325
Applications to Operate Academies
325
STRATEGY, LEADERSHIP AND MANAGEMENT OF THE ACADEMY
330
Strategic Documents
330
Academy Performance Plan
330
Performance Management Application
330
Technical Board
331
Academies: Evaluation and Audit
332
Productivity Profile
PERFORMANCE MANAGEMENT, PLAYER DEVELOPMENT AND PROGRESSION
Performance Clock
Individual Learning Plans and Multi-disciplinary Reviews
STAFF
332
334
334
334
336
General
336
Academy Management Team
337
Academy Manager
337
Academy Secretary
339
Head of Academy Coaching
339
Coaches
340
Goalkeeping Coaches
341
Senior Professional Development Coach
341
Coaches: Qualifications and Professional Development
342
Head of Academy Sports Science and Medicine
343
Lead Sports Scientist
344
Lead Strength and Conditioning Coach
345
Senior Academy Physiotherapist
345
Physiotherapists and Sports Therapists
346
71
RULES INDEX
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT RULES
CONTENTS
Academy Doctor
347
Performance Analysts
347
Head of Education
347
Head of Recruitment
348
Interns
RULES INDEX
COACHING
Coaching Curriculum
350
Coaching Hours
350
Development Centres
352
GAMES PROGRAMME
354
General
354
Performance Analysis
354
Foundation Phase Games Programme
355
Youth Development Phase Games Programme
357
Professional Development Phase Games Programme
359
Professional Development League
361
Games Programme: Postponement etc. of Matches
363
EDUCATION AND WELFARE
364
General
364
Induction Events
365
Reports on Educational Progression
365
Delivery of the Education Programme
366
Welfare, Social Development and Lifestyle Management
370
Player Exit/Release Strategy
SPORTS SCIENCE AND MEDICINE
Sports Science and Medicine Programme
TALENT IDENTIFICATION AND RECRUITMENT
Scouts: Qualifications
72
349
350
371
372
372
374
374
Scouts: Attendance at Matches
374
Scouts: Disciplinary Action
375
Registrations and Provision of Information by the League
375
Time/Distance Rules
376
Trials
376
Pre-Registration Agreements
378
Registrations
378
End of Season Procedure
381
Termination of Registration
381
CONTENTS
Scholarships
Approaches by and to Clubs and Inducements
FACILITIES
382
385
386
Facilities
FINANCE
386
392
Finance
392
394
Compensation
394
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT FORMS
PLYD Form 1:
Scholarship Agreement
402
Schedule One Scholarship Allowance
408
Schedule Two Disciplinary Procedure and Penalties
409
PLYD Form 2:
Notification of Trialists Particulars (Youth Development Rule 243.2)
411
PLYD Form 3:
Notice of Ending of Trial Period (Youth Development Rule 252)
413
PLYD Form 4:
Pre-registration Agreement (Youth Development Rule 255)
414
PLYD Form 5:
Academy Player Registration Application (Youth Development Rule 263)
415
PLYD Form 5A:
Full Time Training Model (Youth Development Rule 203)
417
PLYD Form 5B:
Hybrid Training Model (Youth Development Rule 203)
419
PLYD Form 6:
Academy Ethnicity Monitoring Questionnaire (Youth Development Rule 264)
421
PLYD Form 7:
List of Academy Players (Youth Development Rule 272)
422
PLYD Form 8:
Retention/Termination Notification for Academy Players Entering into
Age Groups Under 10, Under 11, Under 12 and Under 14
(Youth Development Rules 273.1)
423
PLYD Form 9:
Retention/Termination Notification for Academy Players Entering into
Age Groups Under 13 and Under 15 (Youth Development Rule 273.2)
424
PLYD Form 10:
Academy Players Registration: Mutual Cancellation Notification
(Youth Development Rule 277.2)
425
PLYD Form 11:
Scholarship Offer (Youth Development Rule 287)
426
PLYD Form 12:
Response to Scholarship Offer (Youth Development Rule 288)
427
APPENDICES TO THE RULES
Appendix 1:
Schedule of Offences (Rule F.1.4.3)
431
Appendix 2:
Inclusion and Anti-Discrimination Policy (Rule J.4)
432
Appendix 3:
Camera Positions (Rule K.62)
433
Appendix 4:
Medical Examinations to be carried out on Contract Players and Students
Registered on Scholarship Agreements (Rule O.24)
439
73
RULES INDEX
COMPENSATION
RULES INDEX
CONTENTS
Appendix 4A:
Pocket Concussion Recognition Tool (Rule O.22)
443
Appendix 5:
Code of Conduct for Managers (Rule P.1)
445
Appendix 6:
Code of Conduct for Clubs (Rule P.2)
447
Appendix 7:
Standard Clauses for Inclusion in Managers Contracts of Employment
(Rule P.8.1)
448
Appendix 8:
Code of Conduct for Scouts (Rule Q.8)
449
Appendix 9:
Standard Clauses for inclusion in replica Strip manufacturers contracts (Rule
R.16)
450
Appendix 10:
Notice to Manufacturer Licensed to Manufacture and Distribute Club Replica
Strip (Rule R.17)
451
Appendix 11
Rules Governing Applications for UEFA Club Licences
452
Appendix 12:
Regulations of the Professional Football Compensation Committee
455
Appendix 13:
The Health and Safety of Academy Players on Residential Tours, Festivals,
Tournaments and Visits Code Of Practice (Youth Development Rule 186)
459
Code of Conduct for Academy Players of Compulsory School Age
(Youth Development Rule 189)
489
Appendix 14
74
PREMIER RULES
LEAGUE RULES
PREMIER LEAGUE
RULES
Note: binding Premier League Rules are shaded in light blue. Guidance notes are also included
for the assistance of Clubs. Such guidance does not, however, form part of the Rules.
DEFINITIONS AND INTERPRETATION
SECTION A: DEFINITIONS AND INTERPRETATION
PREMIER LEAGUE RULES: SECTION A
Definitions
A.1
In these Rules:
A.1.1.
Accounting Reference Period means the period in respect of which Annual Accounts are
prepared.
A.1.2.
Activity has the meaning set out in Rule S.1.1;
A.1.3.
the Act means the Companies Act 2006 (save for in Section X of these Rules where it shall
have the meaning set out in Rule X.1.1);
A.1.4.
the 1986 Act has the meaning set out in Rule E.29.1;
A.1.5.
Adjusted Earnings Before Tax means Earnings Before Tax adjusted to exclude costs
(or estimated costs as the case may be) in respect of the following:
(a) depreciation and/or impairment of tangible fixed assets, amortisation or impairment of
goodwill and other intangible assets (but excluding amortisation of the costs of players
registrations);
(b) Youth Development Expenditure; and
(c) Community Development Expenditure.
Each of Youth Development Expenditure and Community Development Expenditure shall
only be excluded from the calculation of Adjusted Earnings Before Tax if separately disclosed:
(a) by way of notes to the Annual Accounts; or
(b) by way of supplementary information which reconciles to the Annual Accounts and
which has been subject to independent audit.
A.1.6.
Adult at Risk has the meaning set out in Rule S.1.2;
A.1.7.
Adults at Risk Safeguarding Officer has the meaning set out in Rule S.14.10
A.1.8.
Adults at Risk Safeguarding Manager has the meaning set out in Rule S.1.3;
A.1.9.
Agent means any Person who qualifies as an Intermediary for the purposes of the FA
Regulations on Working with Intermediaries as they may be amended from time to time;
A.1.10.
Amateur Player means any player (other than an Academy Player) who is registered to
play or intends to be registered to play for a Club and who is registered with the Football
Association as an amateur in accordance with the FIFA Regulations for the Status and
Transfer of Players;
A.1.11.
Annual Accounts means:
(a) the accounts which each Clubs directors are required to prepare pursuant to section
394 of the Act; or
(b) if the Club considers it appropriate or the Secretary so requests, the group accounts of
the Group of which the Club is a member and which it is required to prepare pursuant to
section 399 of the Act, or which it is required to deliver to the Registrar of Companies
pursuant to section 400(2)(e) or section 401(2)(f) of the Act;
76
SECTION A: DEFINITIONS AND INTERPRETATION
PREMIER LEAGUE RULES: SECTION A
provided that in either case the accounts are prepared to an accounting reference date
(as defined in section 391 of the Act) which falls between 31 May and 31 July inclusive. If
the accounting reference date falls at any other time, separate accounts for the Club or
the Group as appropriate must be prepared for a period of twelve months ending on a
date between 31 May and 31 July inclusive, and in such a case Annual Accounts means
those accounts.
Annual Accounts must be prepared and audited in accordance with all legal and regulatory
requirements applicable to accounts prepared pursuant to Section 394 of the Act.
A.1.12.
Appeal Board means the body having appellate jurisdiction under these Rules appointed
by the Board under the provisions of Rule W.62;
A.1.13.
the Articles means the Articles of Association of the League and reference to a number
following the word Article is a reference to an article so numbered in the Articles;
A.1.14.
Artificial Surface means any playing surface which is not or not intended to be
predominantly natural grass;
A.1.15.
Associate means in relation to an individual any other individual who is:
(a) the spouse or civil partner of that individual; or
(b) a relative of the individual or of his spouse or civil partner; or
(c) the spouse or civil partner of a relative of the individual or of their spouse or civil partner;
A.1.16.
Associated Undertaking means an undertaking in which an undertaking has a
participating interest and over whose operating and financial policy it exercises a significant
influence, and which is not a Parent Undertaking or Subsidiary Undertaking;
A.1.17.
Authorised Signatory means an Official of a Club duly authorised by a resolution of its
board of directors to sign Forms either as required by these Rules or in connection with a
Clubs application for a UEFA Club Licence, whose particulars shall have first been submitted
to the Secretary in Form 1;
A.1.18.
Bankruptcy Order means an order adjudging an individual bankrupt;
A.1.19.
Bankruptcy Restriction Order and Interim Bankruptcy Restriction Order mean orders
made under the provisions of Schedule 4A of the Insolvency Act 1986;
A.1.20.
Basic Award Fund means the fund established out of UK Broadcasting Money and
distributed in accordance with Rule D.18.1;
A.1.21.
the Board means the board of directors for the time being of the League;
A.1.22.
Broadcaster means a Radio Broadcaster, a UK Broadcaster or an Overseas Broadcaster;
A.1.23.
Broadcaster Preview Period has the meaning set out in Rule K.90
77
SECTION A: DEFINITIONS AND INTERPRETATION
A.1.24.
Cash Losses means aggregate Adjusted Earnings Before Tax after:
(a) write back of:
PREMIER LEAGUE RULES: SECTION A
(i) amortisation and/or impairment of Players registrations; and
(ii) profit or loss on the transfer of Players registrations; and
(b) inclusion of net cash flow in respect of transfers of Players registrations.
A.1.25.
Central Funds has the meaning set out in Rule E.25.1;
A.1.26.
the Chairman means the person appointed as the Chairman pursuant to Article 42 of the
Articles or any acting Chairman appointed pursuant to Article 56.1;
A.1.27.
the Chief Executive means the chief executive officer appointed pursuant to Article 42 of
the Articles;
A.1.28.
Child and Children have the meaning set out in Rule S.1.5;
A.1.29.
Childrens Safeguarding Officer has the meaning set out in Rule S.1.6;
A.1.30.
Childrens Safeguarding Manager has the meaning set out in Rule S.1.7;
A.1.31.
clear days in relation to the period of a notice means that period excluding the day when
the notice is given or deemed to be given and the day for which it is given or on which it is to
take effect;
A.1.32.
Close Season means the period between the end of one Season and the commencement
of the next;
A.1.33.
Club means an association football club in membership of the League and:
(a) for the purposes of Rules E.39 to E.49 inclusive includes any club which is entitled to be
promoted from the Football League to the League;
(b) for the purposes of Rules A.1.51, A.1.56, A.1.165, and Sections F and H of these Rules
(including any Forms prescribed therein) includes any Associated Undertaking, Fellow
Subsidiary Undertaking, Group Undertaking, or Parent Undertaking of such Club; and
(c) for the purposes of Section G of these Rules, Rules I.1 to I.7 and Rule J.3 (and including any Forms
prescribed therein) includes any Associated Undertaking, Fellow Subsidiary Undertaking,
Group Undertaking, Parent Undertaking or Subsidiary Undertaking of such Club;
A.1.34.
club means an association football club not in membership of the League;
A.1.35.
Club Own Revenue Uplift means any increase in a Clubs revenue in a Contract Year
when compared with its revenue in Contract Year 2012/13 (excluding Central Funds fee
payments from its revenue in both the Contract Years). The Board may if necessary adjust
the calculation of a Club Own Revenue Uplift:
(a) to ensure that it is calculated on a like-for-like basis; and/or
(b) to restate to Fair Market Value any consideration which arises from a Related Party
Transaction.
The Board shall not make any such adjustment without first having given the Club reasonable
opportunity to make submissions as to whether such adjustment is necessary and/or (where
paragraph (b) above applies) what constitutes the Fair Market Value of the said consideration.
78
SECTION A: DEFINITIONS AND INTERPRETATION
Club Radio Contract means any contract upon terms complying in all respects with any
directive issued by the League pursuant to Rule D.7 and made between any Club and the
local or regional independent radio station or BBC local radio station within whose
transmission area the Clubs Stadium is situated;
A.1.37.
Club Shirt Sponsor Contract means any contract between any Club and any Person (not
being the manufacturer, producer or distributor of that Clubs Strip) providing for the exhibition
upon that Clubs Strip of the agreed prime brand of that Person in accordance with Rule M.30;
A.1.38.
Commercial Contract means any contract entered into by the League relating to
sponsorship or like transactions or other matters materially affecting the commercial
interests of Clubs other than an Overseas Broadcasting Contract, a UK Broadcasting
Contract, a Radio Contract or a Title Sponsorship Contract;
A.1.39.
Commercial Contract Money means money received by the League under any
Commercial Contract;
A.1.40.
Commission means a commission appointed by the Board under the provisions of Rule
W.21;
A.1.41.
Community Development Expenditure means:
(a) net expenditure by a Club directly attributable to activities (whether in the United
Kingdom or abroad) for the public benefit to promote participation in sport and advance
social development; and
(b) donations made by the Club
(i) to United Kingdom charities in a form recognised by such charities; and/or
(iii) for foreign charitable purposes in a form which (had the donations been made to
registered United Kingdom charities) would have been recognised as charitable.
A.1.42.
the Company Secretary means the person whose particulars are registered or registrable
as the secretary of the League pursuant to Section 276 of the Act, and shall include any joint,
assistant or deputy secretary;
A.1.43.
Compensation Fee means any sum of money or other consideration (exclusive of Value
Added Tax) payable by a Transferee Club to a Transferor Club upon the permanent transfer
of the registration of a Contract Player or in respect of an Out of Contract Player;
A.1.44.
Compensation Fee Account means the account bearing that name at Barclays Bank Plc
into which Compensation Fees, Loan Fees (including in both cases instalments thereof) and
Contingent Sums are payable as set out in Rule V.29;
A.1.45.
Concert Party means any person with which any relevant person is acting in concert
within the meaning of paragraphs (2) to (5) (inclusive) of the definition of acting in concert
in the City Code on Takeovers and Mergers, or would be so acting in concert if the City Code
on Takeovers and Mergers applied in the relevant case;
A.1.46.
Conditional Contract means a playing contract between a Club and a Player which is
determinable by the Player at any time;
79
PREMIER LEAGUE RULES: SECTION A
A.1.36.
SECTION A: DEFINITIONS AND INTERPRETATION
A.1.47.
Connected Person means any Person who directly or indirectly possesses or is entitled to
acquire more than 30 per cent of:
PREMIER LEAGUE RULES: SECTION A
(a) the issued ordinary share capital of the company; or
(b) the loan capital (save where loan capital was acquired in the ordinary course of the
business of lending money) and issued share capital of the company; or
(c) the assets of the company which would be available for distribution to equity holders in
the event of winding up of the company;
A.1.48.
Contingent Sum means any sum of money (exclusive of Value Added Tax) additional to a
Compensation Fee payable upon the happening of a contingent event by a Transferee Club
to a Transferor Club consequent upon the transfer of the registration of a player;
A.1.49.
Contract Player means any player (other than an Academy Player) who has entered into
a written contract of employment with a Club;
A.1.50.
Contract Year means the period beginning on 1 July in any year and ending on the
following 30 June.
A.1.51.
Control means the power of a Person to exercise, or to be able to exercise or acquire, direct
or indirect control over the policies, affairs and/or management of a Club, whether that
power is constituted by rights or contracts (either separately or in combination) and having
regard to the considerations of fact or law involved, and, without prejudice to the generality
of the foregoing, Control shall be deemed to include:
(a) the power (whether directly or indirectly and whether by the ownership of share
capital, by the possession of voting power, by contract or otherwise including
without limitation by way of membership of any Concert Party) to appoint and/or
remove all or such of the members of the board of directors of the Club as are able
to cast a majority of the votes capable of being cast by the members of that board;
and/or
(b) the holding and/or possession of the beneficial interest in, and/or the ability to
exercise the voting rights applicable to, Shares in the Club (whether directly, indirectly
(by means of holding such interests in one or more other persons) or by contract
including without limitation by way of membership of any Concert Party) which
confer in aggregate on the holder(s) thereof 30 per cent or more of the total voting
rights exercisable at general meetings of the Club;
For the purposes of the above, any rights or powers of a Nominee for any Person or of an
Associate of any Person or of a Connected Person to any Person shall be attributed to that
Person;
A.1.52.
Conviction means a finding by a court anywhere in the world that a person has committed
an offence or carried out the act for which he was charged, and Convicted shall be construed
accordingly;
A.1.53.
Crowd Doctor means the Official described in Rules O.8 to O.10;
A.1.54.
DBS has the meaning set out in Rule S.1.8;
A.1.55.
Declaration means a declaration in Form 5;
80
SECTION A: DEFINITIONS AND INTERPRETATION
Subject to Rule A.1.57 Director means any person occupying the position of director of a
Club whose particulars are registered or registrable under the provisions of section 162 of the
Act and includes a shadow director, that is to say, a person in accordance with whose
directions or instructions the directors of the Club are accustomed to act, or a Person having
Control over the Club, or a Person exercising the powers that are usually associated with the
powers of a director of a company;
A.1.57.
For the purposes of Rules H.1 to H.9:
PREMIER LEAGUE RULES: SECTION A
A.1.56.
(a) a person shall be excluded from the definition of Director set out in Rule A.1.56 if (and
only if):
(i) he falls within the said definition of Director solely because Rule A.1.51(b) applies to
him; and
(ii) his aggregate interest (of the kind set out in Rule A.1.51(b)) in the Shares conferring
voting rights exercisable at general meetings of the Club is less than 50%; and
(b) the Official referred to in Rule J.1.1 shall be included in that definition.
A.1.58.
Disclosure has the meaning set out in Rule S.1.9
A.1.59.
Earnings Before Tax means profit or loss after depreciation and interest but before tax, as
shown in the Annual Accounts.
A.1.60.
Events of Insolvency means the events set out in Rule E.29
A.1.61.
the Extranet means the secure online area maintained by the League for the purpose of
the communication of information between the League and Clubs;
A.1.62.
Facility Fees Fund means the fund established out of UK Broadcasting Money and
distributed in accordance with Rule D.18.3;
A.1.63.
the Faculty has the meaning set out in Rule O.9
A.1.64.
F.A. Cup means the Football Association Challenge Cup competition;
A.1.65.
Fair Market Value means the amount for which an asset could be sold, licensed or
exchanged, a liability settled, or a service provided, between knowledgeable, willing parties
in an arms length transaction.
A.1.66.
Fellow Subsidiary Undertaking has the meaning set out in section 1161(4) of the Act;
A.1.67.
FIFA means the Federation Internationale de Football Association;
A.1.68.
Financial Institution means any entity which is incorporated in, or formed under the law
of any part of the United Kingdom, and which has permission under Part 4a of the Financial
Services and Markets Act 2000 to carry on the regulated activity of accepting deposits
(within the meaning of section 22 of that Act, taken with Schedule 2 and any order under
section 22) but such definition shall not include:
(a) a building society (within the meaning of section 119 of the Building Societies Act 1986);
or
(b) a credit union (within the meaning of section 31 of the Credit Unions Act 1979).
81
PREMIER LEAGUE RULES: SECTION A
SECTION A: DEFINITIONS AND INTERPRETATION
A.1.69.
the Football Association means The Football Association Limited;
A.1.70.
the Football Association Rules means the Rules and Regulations for the time being of the
Football Association;
A.1.71.
Football Creditor has the meaning set out in Rule E.35;
A.1.72.
the Football League means The Football League Limited;
A.1.73.
the Football League Cup means the cup competition organised by the board of the
Football League;
A.1.74.
Form means the appropriate form or substantially the same form as that prescribed in
these Rules;
A.1.75.
Future Financial Information has the meaning set out in Rule E.11;
A.1.76.
Gambling Related Agreement means any agreement (i) which concerns any advertising,
marketing, promotion, supply or provision of betting, gaming, lottery or other gambling
related products, services, brands or facilities (whether as part of a Club Shirt Sponsor
Contract, the appointment of a gambling partner or otherwise); and/or (ii) where the
business activities of any of the parties (or of an Associated Undertaking or Group
Undertaking of any of the parties) to such agreement include the provision of betting,
gaming, lottery or other gambling related products, services or facilities;
A.1.77.
General Meeting means any meeting of the members of the League duly called in
accordance with the provisions of Article 18;
A.1.78.
Goal Line Technology means all necessary equipment for the purpose of assisting the
referee to determine whether, in a League Match, a goal has been scored.
A.1.79.
Group has the meaning set out in section 474(1) of the Act;
With effect from the start of Season 2015/16, this Rule shall read as follows:
Group has the meaning set out in section 474(1) of the Act save that it shall also include
any other entity that carries on any material aspect of the football operations of the Club.
A.1.80.
Group Accounts mean accounts that a Club is required to prepare pursuant to section
399 of the Act, or which its Parent Undertaking is required to deliver to the Registrar of
Companies pursuant to section 400(2)(e) or section 401(2)(f) of the Act;
A.1.81.
Group Undertaking has the meaning set out in Section 1161(5) of the Act;
A.1.82.
Hardwiring means the permanent installation of cabling to enable the uninterrupted live
Transmission of League Matches and Hardwired shall be construed accordingly;
A.1.83.
HMRC means HM Revenue and Customs or such other government department(s) that
may replace the same;
A.1.84.
Holding means the holding and/or possession of the beneficial interest in, and/or the
ability to exercise the voting rights applicable to, Shares in the Club (whether directly,
indirectly (by means of holding such interests in one or more other persons) or by contract
including without limitation by way of membership of any Concert Party) which confer any
voting rights exercisable at general meetings of the Club;
82
SECTION A: DEFINITIONS AND INTERPRETATION
A.1.85.
Home Club means the Club at whose Stadium a League Match is or was or should be or
should have been played or, where the Clubs participating in that League Match share a
Stadium, the Club whose name first appears in respect of that League Match on the Leagues
fixture list;
A.1.86.
Home Grown Player means a Player who, irrespective of his nationality or age, has been
registered with any Club (or club) affiliated to the Football Association or the Football
Association of Wales for a period, continuous or not, of three Seasons or 36 months prior to
his 21st birthday (or the end of the Season during which he turns 21) and for the purposes of
this definition of Home Grown Player a Season will be deemed to commence on the date
on which the first Transfer Window closes and expire on the date of the final League Match
of the Season;
A.1.87.
Image Contract means any contract whereby a Player transfers to any Person (the
transferee) the right to exploit his image or reputation either in relation to football or nonfootballing activities;
A.1.88.
Image Contract Payment means any payment made or liability incurred by or on behalf
of a Club to a transferee in order to acquire that right;
With effect from the start of Season 2015/16, Rules A.1.87 and A.1.88 shall be replaced by
the following:
Image Contract means any contract whereby a Player transfers to any Person the right to
exploit his image or reputation either in relation to football or non-footballing activities and
Image Contract Payment means any payment made or liability incurred by or on behalf
of a Club to such a Person in order to acquire that right;
A.1.89.
Individual Voluntary Arrangement means an arrangement made under the provisions
of Part VIII of the Insolvency Act 1986;
A.1.90.
International Transfer means the transfer of the registration of a player to a Club in
respect of which an international registration transfer certificate is required under the
provisions of the FIFA Regulations for the Status and Transfer of Players;
A.1.91.
Interview Backdrops means backdrops against which interviews must, where specified by
these Rules, be conducted. The Interview Backdrops will be provided to Clubs from time to
time by the League;
A.1.92.
the League means the Football Association Premier League Limited;
A.1.93.
the League Champions has the meaning set out in Rule C.11;
A.1.94.
League Match means a first team match played under the jurisdiction of the League;
A.1.95.
League Office means the registered office for the time being of the League;
83
PREMIER LEAGUE RULES: SECTION A
For the purposes of the above, any rights or powers of a nominee for any Person shall be
attributed to that Person, that is to say any rights or powers which another Person possesses
on his behalf or may be required to exercise at his direction or on his behalf and any rights or
powers of any other Person which is a Connected Person to any Person shall be attributed to
that Person;
PREMIER LEAGUE RULES: SECTION A
SECTION A: DEFINITIONS AND INTERPRETATION
A.1.96.
Licensing Manual means the manual in which are set out procedures agreed between the
Football Association and the League relating to applications for and the granting of licences
enabling Clubs (or clubs) to play in UEFA Club Competitions;
A.1.97.
Loan Fee means any sum of money (exclusive of Value Added Tax) payable by a Transferee
Club to a Transferor Club upon a Temporary Transfer;
A.1.98.
Local Authority Designated Officer has the meaning set out in Rule S.1.10;
A.1.99.
Local Safeguarding Childrens Board has the meaning set out in Rule S.1.11;
A.1.100.
Manager means the Official of a Club responsible for selecting the Clubs first team;
A.1.101.
Match Manager means a representative of the League who may be appointed to act in
relation to a League Match and whose responsibilities include (without limitation):
(a) liaising with Clubs, Match Officials, Broadcasters and any Person with whom the League
has entered into a Commercial Contract to promote the delivery by the League of all
matchday requirements and entitlements of Broadcasters and such Persons pursuant to
these Rules;
(b) assisting Clubs to comply with their obligations pursuant to Rule D.3 insofar as those
obligations must be fulfilled at League Matches; and
(c) working with Clubs and Broadcasters to enable the referee to ensure that the kick-off,
and re-start after half-time, of each League Match take place promptly.
Guidance
The appointment of a Match Manager in relation to a League Match does not absolve Clubs from compliance with their
responsibilities under Rules L.28 and L.29 (which provide for prompt kick-offs and re-starts of League Matches) or with
any of the provisions of Section K concerning Broadcasters requirements.
A.1.102.
Match Officials means referees and assistant referees and includes reserve officials and
fourth officials;
A.1.103.
Material Transactions has the meaning set out in Rule H.1;
A.1.104.
Medical Coordinator means the Official described in Rules O.5 to O.7;
A.1.105.
Memorandum means the Memorandum of Association of the League;
A.1.106.
Merit Payments Fund means the fund established out of UK Broadcasting Money and
distributed in accordance with Rule D.18.2;
A.1.107.
Mixed Zone means the area in which media interviews with Players and Managers may be
conducted after the conclusion of a League Match, as more particularly described in Rules
K.70 to K.71;
A.1.108.
New Registration has the meaning set out in Rule U.14;
A.1.109.
Nominee means in connection to any Person another Person who possesses rights or
powers on his behalf, or which he may be required to exercise at his discretion;
A.1.110.
Official means any director, secretary, servant or representative of a Club, excluding any
Player, Agent or Auditors;
84
SECTION A: DEFINITIONS AND INTERPRETATION
Out of Contract Player means a Contract Player whose contract of employment with a
Club has expired;
A.1.112.
Outside Broadcast Compound means the area for the exclusive use of TV Broadcasters
vehicles more particularly described at Rules K.79 to K.81;
A.1.113.
Overseas Broadcaster means a Person with whom the League has entered into an
Overseas Broadcasting Contract and who is entitled to effect the Transmission of League
Matches in accordance with the terms of that Contract;
A.1.114.
Overseas Broadcasting Contract means any contract entered into by the League for the
Transmission of League Matches outside the United Kingdom, the Republic of Ireland, the
Isle of Man and the Channel Islands;
A.1.115.
Overseas Broadcasting Money means money received by the League under any
Overseas Broadcasting Contract;
A.1.116.
Overseas TV Commentary Positions means the commentary positions more
particularly described in Rules K.56 to K.57;
A.1.117.
the Panel has the meaning set out in Rule W.14;
A.1.118.
Parent shall be interpreted as set out in Rule S.1.12;
A.1.119.
Parent Undertaking has the meaning set out in section 1162 of the Act;
A.1.120.
PAYE and NIC means any and all payments required to be made by a Club in respect of
income tax and national insurance contributions;
A.1.121.
Person includes any legal entity, firm or unincorporated association and in the case of a
Person which is incorporated any of its Associated Undertaking, Fellow Subsidiary
Undertaking, Group Undertaking, Parent Undertaking or Subsidiary Undertaking;
A.1.122.
PGB has the meaning set out in Rule B.21;
A.1.123.
PGMOL means the Professional Game Match Officials Limited;
A.1.124.
Player means any Contract Player, Out of Contract Player, Amateur Player or Academy
Player who is registered to play for a Club;
A.1.125.
Player Services Costs means:
(a) the total of all gross remuneration and benefits payable by a Club to or in respect of its
Contract Players;
(b) (where applicable) employers National Insurance Contributions thereon; and
(c) any direct contributions made by a Club for a Players benefit to a pension scheme or to
an employee benefit trust or an employer-financed retirement benefit scheme.
A.1.126.
Players Image means the Players name, nickname, fame, image, signature, voice and film
and photographic portrayal, virtual and/or electronic portrayal image or representation,
reputation, replica and all other characteristics of the Player including his shirt number;
A.1.127.
Post-Match Media Conference has the meaning set out in Rules K.101 to K.104;
85
PREMIER LEAGUE RULES: SECTION A
A.1.111.
PREMIER LEAGUE RULES: SECTION A
SECTION A: DEFINITIONS AND INTERPRETATION
A.1.128.
the Premier League Appeals Committee means the committee constituted in
accordance with Rule Z.2;
A.1.129.
the Professional Football Compensation Committee means the committee constituted
in accordance with the Regulations of the Professional Football Compensation Committee;
A.1.130.
Professional Game Youth Fund means the fund of that name managed by the League
who shall award grants from the Funds resources to qualifying Clubs and Football League
clubs;
A.1.131.
Promoted Club means a Club which became a member of the League at the end of the
previous Season pursuant to Rule B.4;
A.1.132.
Radio Commentary Positions means the commentary positions more particularly
described in Rule K.58;
A.1.133.
Radio Contract means any contract entered into by the League other than an Overseas
Broadcasting Contract or a UK Broadcasting Contract for the Radio Transmission of
League Matches;
A.1.134.
Radio Contract Money means money received by the League under any Radio Contract;
A.1.135.
Radio Broadcaster means a Person with whom the League has entered into a Radio
Contract and who is entitled to effect the Radio Transmission of League Matches in
accordance with the terms of that Contract;
A.1.136.
Radio Transmission means any terrestrial or satellite broadcast or transmission by
cable of sounds of and/or commentary upon any League Match or inclusion thereof in a
cable programme service and/or on the Internet and/or any relay of sound of and/or
commentary upon any League Match whether to an open or closed user group by any
means now existing or hereafter invented not consisting solely of storage and distribution
of recorded sounds in tangible form whether such radio transmission is on a live or
recorded basis in whole or as excerpts;
A.1.137.
Relegated Club means a Football League club which was relegated under the provisions of
Rule C.14 at the end of any of the 4 previous Seasons and which remains relegated;
A.1.138.
Related Party Transaction means a transaction disclosed in a Clubs Annual Accounts as
a related party transaction or which would have been disclosed as such except for an
exemption under the accounting standards under which the Annual Accounts were prepared.
A.1.139.
Representation Contract means an agreement to which a Club and an Agent are party
and pursuant to which the Agent acts for the Club or a Player in the context of either the
registration or transfer of the registration of a Player or the employment of a Player by a Club;
A.1.140.
Resolution has the meaning set out in Article 1.2;
A.1.141.
Respondent has the meaning set out in Rule W.23.2;
A.1.142.
Retired Player means a Player who has stopped playing competitive football;
86
SECTION A: DEFINITIONS AND INTERPRETATION
these Rules means the rules for the time being of the League and a letter and a number
following a reference to a rule identifies the Section in which it is comprised and its number
within that Section;
A.1.144.
Scout means any person employed or engaged by a Club (whether on a full-time or parttime basis and whether or not he is remunerated in any way for his services) whose duties
include identifying to his Club players whose registration his Club may wish to secure;
A.1.145.
Search and Intervention Steward has the meaning set out in Rule S.1.13;
A.1.146.
Season means the period commencing on the date of the first League Match on the fixture
list of the Leagues first team competition and ending on the date of the last;
A.1.147.
the Secretary means the general secretary of the League;
A.1.148.
Section means a Section of these Rules;
A.1.149
Secure Funding means funds which have been or will be made available to the Club in an
amount equal to or in excess of any Cash Losses which the Club has made in respect of the
period from T-2 or is forecast to make up to the end of T+2. Secure Funding may not be a loan
and shall consist of:
(a) contributions that an equity participant has made by way of payments for shares
through the Clubs share capital account or share premium reserve account; or
(b) an irrevocable commitment by an equity participant to make future payments for
shares through the Clubs share capital account or share premium reserve account. This
irrevocable commitment shall be evidenced by a legally binding agreement between the
Club and the equity participant and may if the Board so requires be secured by one of
the following:
i.
a personal guarantee from the ultimate beneficial owner of the Club, provided that
the Board is satisfied that (i) he is of sufficient standing and (ii) the terms of the
guarantee are satisfactory;
ii. a guarantee from the Clubs Parent Undertaking or another company in the Clubs
Group, provided that the Board is satisfied that (i) the guaranteeing company is of
sufficient standing and (ii) the terms of the guarantee are satisfactory;
iii. a letter of credit from a Financial Institution of sufficient standing and an
undertaking from the Clubs directors to the Premier League to call on the letter of
credit in default of the payments from the equity participant being made;
iv. payments into an escrow account, to be paid to the Club on terms satisfactory to
the Board; or
v. such other form of security as the Board considers satisfactory; or
(c)
A.1.150.
such other form of Secure Funding as the Board considers satisfactory.
Shares means shares or other equity securities;
87
PREMIER LEAGUE RULES: SECTION A
A.1.143.
PREMIER LEAGUE RULES: SECTION A
SECTION A: DEFINITIONS AND INTERPRETATION
A.1.151.
Significant Interest means the holding and/or possession of the legal or beneficial
interest in, and/or the ability to exercise the voting rights applicable to, Shares in the Club
which confer in aggregate on the holder(s) thereof ten (10) per cent or more of the total
voting rights exercisable in respect of any class of Shares of the Club. All or part of any such
interest may be held directly or indirectly or by contract including, but not limited to, by way
of membership of any Concert Party, and any rights or powers held by an Associate, Nominee
or Connected Person shall be included for the purposes of determining whether an interest
or interests amounts to a Significant Interest;
A.1.152.
Signing-on Fee means a lump sum payment payable under the terms of a contract
between a Club and a Contract Player and which is expressed to be a signing-on fee;
A.1.153.
Spent Conviction means a conviction in respect of which the offender is treated as
rehabilitated for the purposes of the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 or, where this Act
does not apply for any reason, a conviction which would be so treated had the provisions of
the Act applied;
A.1.154.
Squad List means the list of up to a maximum of 25 Players eligible to participate in League
Matches during a Season of whom a maximum of 17 may not be Home Grown Players;
A.1.155.
Stadium means the Clubs ground registered with the Secretary pursuant to Rule K.5;
A.1.156.
Staff has the meaning set out in Rule S.1.14;
A.1.157.
stakeholders has the meaning set out in Rule R.2;
A.1.158.
Strip means Players shirts, shorts and stockings;
A.1.159.
Subsidiary Undertaking has the meaning set out in section 1162 of the Act;
A.1.160.
T means the Clubs Accounting Reference Period ending in the year in which assessment
pursuant to Rules E.52 to E.59 takes place, and:
(a) T-1 means the Clubs Accounting Reference Period immediately preceding T;
(b) T-2 means the Clubs Accounting Reference Period immediately preceding T-1;
(c) T+1 means the Clubs Accounting Reference Period immediately following T; and
(d) T+2 means the Clubs Accounting Reference Period immediately following T+1.
A.1.161.
Team Doctor means the Official described in Rules O.3 to O.4;
A.1.162.
Technical Specification means a specification, unique to each Club, showing how that
Club will deliver each of the facilities, infrastructure requirements and services required of it
pursuant to Rules K.40 to K.125 on the occasion of League Matches played at its Stadium;
Guidance
The Technical Specification is the detailed working document showing how the requirements of the Rules will be
translated into working facilities at each Clubs Stadium on match days. For example, it will show the location of each of
the required facilities, such as:
the television cameras;
the dedicated rooms for Broadcasters such as the Television Studios;
the location of the Mixed Zone;
the location of the dedicated car park spaces;
the location of the Outside Broadcast Compound.
88
SECTION A: DEFINITIONS AND INTERPRETATION
Television Gantry means the television gantry more particularly described in Rules K.51
to K.53;
A.1.164.
Temporary Transfer has the meaning set out in Rule V.5;
A.1.165.
Third Party Payment means any payment made or liability incurred (other than
Compensation Fees, remuneration or payments to or for the benefit of Agents referred to in
Rule H.1) by or on behalf of a Club in respect of a Player, including an Image Contract Payment;
A.1.166.
Title Sponsor means the Person granted the right to have its agreed brand identity
associated with the name of the Leagues first team competition;
A.1.167.
Title Sponsorship Contract means any contract entered into between the League and a
Title Sponsor;
A.1.168.
Title Sponsorship Money means money received by the League under any Title
Sponsorship Contract;
A.1.169.
Transfer Agreement means an agreement between a Transferor Club and a Transferee
Club for the permanent transfer of the registration of a Contract Player;
A.1.170.
Transfer Windows has the meaning set out in Rule V.1;
A.1.171.
Transferee Club means a Club (or club) to which the registration of a Contract Player is, or
is to be or has been transferred (including on the basis of a Temporary Transfer) or which, in
the case of an Out of Contract Player, effects his New Registration;
A.1.172.
Transferor Club means a Club (or club) from which the registration of a Contract Player is,
or is to be or has been transferred (including on the basis of a Temporary Transfer) or which,
in the case of an Out of Contract Player, holds his registration under the provisions of Rule
U.29.2;
A.1.173.
Transmission means any terrestrial or satellite broadcast of television or other moving
pictures with or without sound or transmission by cable of moving pictures with or without
sound or inclusion of moving pictures with or without sound in a cable programme service
and/or on the Internet and/or relay of moving pictures with or without sound whether to an
open or closed user group by any means now existing or hereafter invented not consisting
solely of the storage and distribution of recorded pictures with or without sound in tangible
form whether the said transmission is on a live or recorded basis in whole or as excerpts;
A.1.174.
TV Broadcaster means a UK Broadcaster or an Overseas Broadcaster;
A.1.175.
UEFA means the Union des Associations Europennes de Football;
A.1.176.
UEFA Club Competition means the club competitions organised by UEFA;
A.1.177.
UEFA Club Licence means the licence granted by the Football Association in accordance
with the procedures set out in the Licensing Manual enabling Clubs (or clubs) to play in UEFA
Club Competitions;
A.1.178.
UK Broadcaster means a Person with whom the League has entered into a UK Broadcasting
Contract and who is entitled to effect the Transmission of League Matches in accordance
with the terms of that Contract;
89
PREMIER LEAGUE RULES: SECTION A
A.1.163.
PREMIER LEAGUE RULES: SECTION A
SECTION A: DEFINITIONS AND INTERPRETATION
A.1.179.
UK Broadcasting Contract means any contract entered into by the League for the
Transmission of League Matches within the United Kingdom, the Republic of Ireland, the Isle
of Man and the Channel Islands;
A.1.180.
UK Broadcasting Money means money received by the League under any UK Broadcasting
Contract;
A.1.181.
UK TV Commentary Positions means the commentary positions more particularly
described in Rules K.54 to K.55;
A.1.182.
Under 21 Player means a Player under the age of 21 as at the 1st January in the year in
which the Season concerned commences (i.e. for Season 2015/2016 born on or after 1st
January 1994);
A.1.183.
Visiting Club means the Club playing, which has played, which should play or which
should have played a League Match at the Stadium of a Home Club or, where the Clubs
participating in that League Match share a Stadium, the Club whose name last appears in
respect of that League Match on the Leagues fixture list;
A.1.184.
Week by Week Contract means a playing contract between a Club and a Player which is
determinable by either party on 7 days written notice;
A.1.185.
Working Day means any day on which the League Office is open for normal business but
excluding, unless the Board determines otherwise, a Saturday, a Sunday or a Bank or Public
Holiday;
A.1.186.
References to written or in writing shall be construed to include:
(a) hard copy;
(b) facsimile transmission;
(c) subject to any guidance issued by the Board, email (including any attachment to an
email);
(d) where appropriate, the Extranet;
but shall not include any form of electronic communication other than those listed in Rules
(b) to (d) above. Where a communication is sent by email, the burden of proof of receipt shall
be on the sender;
A.1.187.
Youth Development Expenditure means expenditure by a Club directly attributable to
activities to train, educate and develop Academy Players net of any Premier League central
funding paid to Clubs solely for the purpose of such activities.
A.1.188.
Youth Development Rules means the Youth Development Rules which are set out as an
Appendix to these Rules and which form part of these Rules.
90
SECTION A: DEFINITIONS AND INTERPRETATION
Interpretation
A.2.
Terms defined in Youth Development Rule 1 shall have the meanings set out in that Rule.
A.3.
Unless the context otherwise requires:
words importing the singular number shall include the plural and vice versa; and
A.3.2.
words importing any particular gender shall include all other genders.
A.4.
References to statutory provisions shall be construed as references to those provisions as
they may be amended or re-enacted.
A.5.
The headings in these Rules are for convenience only and shall not affect their interpretation.
A.6.
Unless otherwise stated, the provisions of the Articles shall prevail in the event of any conflict
with these Rules.
A.7.
Where a Club is required to submit a Form to the Secretary or to the League pursuant to
these Rules, the Board may instead require that the information to be provided in the Form
is submitted via the Extranet in such manner as it may determine.
PREMIER LEAGUE RULES: SECTION A
A.3.1.
91
THE LEAGUE: GOVERNANCE, OPERATIONS AND FINANCE
SECTION B: THE LEAGUE - GOVERNANCE
PREMIER LEAGUE RULES: SECTION B
Name and Membership
B.1.
The Leagues first team competition shall be called The Premier League to which may be
added the name of the Title Sponsor.
B.2.
The Leagues first team competition shall consist of teams of those association football clubs
playing in England and Wales not exceeding 20 in number which are from time to time
members of the League.
B.3.
Each member Club shall on request give to the League the address of its registered office and
shall provide to the League certified true copies of:
B.3.1.
its certificate of incorporation; and
B.3.2.
its memorandum of association; and
B.3.3.
its articles of association; and
B.3.4.
any amendments to the above documents.
B.4.
At the end of each Season the Board shall require each of the Clubs relegated in accordance
with Rule C.14 to execute an instrument transferring its ordinary share in the League to such
of the 3 clubs promoted to the League from the Football League as the Board directs.
B.5.
Upon such share transfers being registered in accordance with the Articles each of the
Promoted Clubs will become a member of the League.
B.6.
A Club shall cease to be entitled to be a member of the League (and upon registration in
accordance with the Articles of the transfer of its ordinary share in the League shall cease to
be a member thereof) following:
B.6.1.
its relegation in accordance with Rule C.14; or
B.6.2.
the receipt of a notice by the Board under the provisions of Article 10.1; or
B.6.3.
its expulsion under the provisions of Rule B.7; or
B.6.4.
its resignation under the provisions of Rules B.8 and B.9.
B.7.
Notwithstanding the provisions of Article 27, the League may expel a Club from membership
upon a special resolution to that effect being passed by a majority of not less than three-fourths
of such members as (being entitled to do so) vote by their representatives or by proxy at a General
Meeting of which notice specifying the intention to propose the resolution has been duly given.
B.8.
Any Club intending to resign as a member of the League may do so only with effect from the
end of the Season upon which it is intended that such resignation is to take effect provided
that it shall give notice in writing to that effect to the Company Secretary on or before the
31st December preceding the end of such Season.
B.9.
Any Director of a Club giving notice under the provisions of Rule B.8 who represents the
League on the Council of the Football Association shall vacate that office forthwith upon the
giving of the notice.
B.10.
Not earlier than the 1st March nor later than the 31st March following the giving of a notice
under Rule B.8, the Club giving such notice shall notify the Company Secretary in writing
whether such notice is confirmed or withdrawn. If no such notice is given the notice under
Rule B.8 shall be deemed to have been withdrawn.
92
SECTION B: THE LEAGUE GOVERNANCE
B.11.
Board Powers
B.12.
Where a discretion, right or power is expressed in these Rules to be exercisable by the Board,
such discretion, right or power shall unless otherwise provided in these Rules or the Articles
be exercisable by the Board in its sole and absolute discretion or as a sole right or power of
the Board and shall when exercised be final and binding and not subject to appeal.
B.13.
The Board may appoint any person who is not an Official to deputise for either the Chairman
or the Chief Executive when the Board is required to exercise its function under either Rule
T.29 or Rule T.30 or Rule T.31 or Rule W.1 or Youth Development Rules 294 and 296-297.
Procedure at General Meetings
B.14.
Subject to the provisions of the Articles and the Acts, the Chairman may regulate the procedure
for General Meetings as he thinks fit. Unless otherwise determined by the Chairman:
B.14.1 Clubs must give to the Secretary not less than 28 clear days notice of any item for
inclusion on the agenda of a forthcoming General Meeting;
B.14.2 two representatives from each Club may attend General Meetings, each of whom
may speak but only one of whom shall be entitled to vote.
Relationship between Clubs and the League
B.15.
Membership of the League shall constitute an agreement between the League and Clubs and
between each Club to be bound by and comply with:
B.15.1.
the Laws of the Game;
B.15.2.
the Football Association Rules;
B.15.3.
the Articles;
B.15.4.
these Rules;
B.15.5.
the statutes and regulations of FIFA;
B.15.6.
the statutes and regulations of UEFA; and
B.15.7. the Regulations of the Professional Football Compensation Committee, each as
amended from time to time.
B.16.
In all matters and transactions relating to the League each Club shall behave towards each
other Club and the League with the utmost good faith.
B.17.
No Club either by itself, its servants or agents shall by any means whatsoever unfairly
criticise, disparage, belittle or discredit any other Club or the League or in either case any of
its directors, officers, employees or agents.
93
PREMIER LEAGUE RULES: SECTION A
B
Without prejudice to the powers contained in Section W of these Rules (Disciplinary), any
Club purporting to resign otherwise than in accordance with Rules B.8 and B.9 shall on
demand indemnify the League on behalf of itself and the Clubs remaining in membership of
the League against all losses, damages, liabilities, costs or expenses whatsoever suffered or
incurred by the League or such Clubs resulting directly or indirectly from such purported
resignation including without limitation loss of income or profits from any Commercial
Contract, UK Broadcasting Contract, Overseas Broadcasting Contract, Radio Contract or
Title Sponsorship Contract.
SECTION B: THE LEAGUE GOVERNANCE
PREMIER LEAGUE RULES: SECTION B
B.18.
A Club shall not without the Boards prior written consent either during its membership of
the League or at any time after its membership has terminated disclose or divulge either
directly or indirectly to any Person whatsoever or otherwise make use of any confidential
information as to the business or finances of the League or any other Club or any of their
dealings, transactions or affairs or as to any other matters which may come to its knowledge
by reason of its membership save to statutory and regulatory authorities or as may be
required by law or to such Officials and Auditors of that Club to whom such disclosure is
strictly necessary for the purpose of their duties and then only to the extent so necessary.
Football Association Representation
B.19.
Under the articles of association of the Football Association the League is entitled to appoint
annually 8 representatives to the Council of the Football Association. Any person who is a
director of a Club or a director or officer of the League shall be eligible for appointment.
Seven such representatives shall be elected by Clubs in General Meeting and one shall be
appointed by the Board subject to ratification by Clubs in General Meeting.
B.20.
Under the articles of association of the Football Association the League is entitled to appoint
annually up to 3 members of the Football Association board of directors. Any person who is
a Football Association Council representative appointed in accordance with Rule B.19 or, if a
representative of a regional division of the Football Association, a person who is a director of
a Club shall be eligible for appointment. The Board shall appoint one of such representatives
subject to ratification by Clubs in General Meeting and the other two shall be elected by
Clubs at the General Meeting next following the end of the Season at which election will be
by ballot and will take place after the election of the Football Association Council
representatives appointed in accordance with Rule B.19.
B.21.
Under the articles of association of the Football Association, the League is entitled to appoint
4 members of the Professional Game Board (the PGB), a committee of the board of
directors of the Football Association. The 3 members of the board of directors of the Football
Association appointed in accordance with Rule B.20 shall recommend for approval in
General Meeting the 4 proposed members of the PGB. Provided always that at least 2 of the
appointed PGB members shall be Football Association Council representatives appointed in
accordance with Rule B.19, the following shall be eligible for appointment:
B.21.1.
a director of a Club;
B.21.2. Football Association Council representative appointed in accordance with Rule
B.19 (who for the avoidance of doubt may be a member of the Football Association
board of directors);
B.21.3.
94
a director or officer of the League.
SECTION B: THE LEAGUE GOVERNANCE
PREMIER LEAGUE RULES: SECTION A
B
95
THE LEAGUE: GOVERNANCE, OPERATIONS AND FINANCE
SECTION C: THE LEAGUE COMPETITION
PREMIER LEAGUE RULES: SECTION A
C
The League Competition
C.1.
Each Club shall play 2 League Matches against each other Club each Season, being the Home
Club in respect of one such League Match and the Visiting Club in respect of the other.
C.2.
The winner of a League Match shall score three points. Each Club participating in a League
Match which is drawn shall score one point.
C.3.
The results of League Matches shall be recorded by the Secretary in a table containing in
respect of each Club the following information:
C.3.1.
the number of League Matches played in that Season;
C.3.2.
the number of League Matches won, drawn and lost as a Home Club in that Season;
C.3.3. the number of League Matches won, drawn and lost as a Visiting Club in that
Season;
C.3.4. the number of goals scored in League Matches by and against that Club in that
Season;
C.3.5.
the number of points scored in that Season.
C.4.
The position of Clubs in the table shall be determined by the number of points scored in that
Season, the Club having scored the highest number of points being at the top of the table and
the Club having scored the lowest number of points being at the bottom.
C.5.
If any 2 or more Clubs have scored the same number of points their position in the table shall
be determined on goal difference, that is to say, the difference between the total number of
goals scored by and against a Club in League Matches in that Season, and the higher or highest
placed Club shall be the Club with the higher or highest goal difference.
C.6.
If any 2 or more Clubs have scored the same number of points and have the same goal
difference the higher or highest placed Club shall be the Club having scored the most goals in
League Matches in that Season.
C.7.
Subject to Rule C.17, if any 2 or more Clubs have scored the same number of points, have the
same goal difference and have scored the same number of goals in League Matches in that
Season they shall be deemed to occupy the same position in the table.
Determination and Accreditation of Goals
C.8.
Goal Line Technology shall be utilised at League Matches (save that, for the avoidance of
doubt, a League Match shall proceed even if Goal Line Technology is unavailable for part or all
of it). The referees decision as to whether a goal has been scored shall be final.
C.9.
The League shall keep a record of the scorer of each goal in each League Match.
C.10.
The Board (or its appointee) will review all goals scored in every League Match, and if there are
any in respect of which the identity of the scoring Player is in doubt, then the Board (or its
appointee) shall determine which Player scored the goal, and the Boards (or its appointees)
said determination shall be final
96
SECTION C: THE LEAGUE COMPETITION
The League Championship
The Club which is at the top of the table at the end of the Season shall be the League
Champions.
C.12.
The League Champions shall receive a trophy which it shall return to the Secretary in good
order and condition not later than 3 weeks before the final League Matches of the next Season.
C.13.
The League Champions shall further receive 40 commemorative medals to be presented by
the Club to its Manager and to such of its Players and Officials as it thinks fit provided that any
Player who has entered the field of play in a minimum of 5 of its League Matches that Season
shall receive from the Club a commemorative medal. Additional medals may only be
presented with the consent of the Board which shall only be given if the total number of
Players who have entered the field of play that Season in a minimum of 5 of the Clubs League
Matches exceeds 39.
PREMIER LEAGUE RULES: SECTION A
C
C.11.
Relegation
C.14.
Subject to Rule C.15, the bottom 3 Clubs in the table at the end of the Season shall be relegated
to the Football League.
C.15.
If any Club ceases during the Season to be a member of the League, the record of the League
Matches in which it has participated that Season shall be expunged from the table and the
number of Clubs to be relegated at the end of that Season shall be reduced so as to maintain
at 20 (or, if less, as near thereto as may be) the number of Clubs in membership of the League
at the beginning of the next Season.
C.16.
If any Club ceases to be a member of the League other than by reason of relegation after the
end of the Season but before the Board has fixed the dates of League Matches for the next
Season, the Board may invite the relegated club which attained the highest position in the
table referred to in Rule C.3 at the end of the previous Season to rejoin the League.
Play-offs
C.17.
If at the end of the Season either the League Champions or the Clubs to be relegated or the
question of qualification for other competitions cannot be determined because 2 or more
Clubs are equal on points, goal difference and goals scored, the Clubs concerned shall play off
one or more deciding League Matches on neutral grounds, the format, timing and venue of
which shall be determined by the Board.
97
THE LEAGUE: GOVERNANCE, OPERATIONS AND FINANCE
SECTION D: THE LEAGUE FINANCE
PREMIER LEAGUE RULES: SECTION A
D
Obligations of the League
D.1.
Subject to the provisions of Article 49, the League shall enter into Commercial Contracts, UK
Broadcasting Contracts, Overseas Broadcasting Contracts, Radio Contracts and Title
Sponsorship Contracts with the intention in the case of each UK Broadcasting Contract for the
live Transmission of League Matches that each Club shall participate in at least one live
televised League Match each Season.
D.2.
Each Club and each Contract Player shall comply with any reasonable request made on behalf
of the League to allow the Players Image to be used to enable the League to fulfil its
Commercial Contracts, UK Broadcasting Contracts, Overseas Broadcasting Contracts, Radio
Contracts and Title Sponsorship Contracts, provided that, where the size of the product
permits, the League shall not use the images of less than 4 Contract Players, each from
different Clubs, on any one product.
Obligations of Clubs
D.3.
Subject to Rule D.8, Clubs shall provide such rights, facilities and services as are required to
enable the League to fulfil its Commercial Contracts, UK Broadcasting Contracts, Overseas
Broadcasting Contracts, Radio Contracts and Title Sponsorship Contracts and shall not by any
act or omission infringe any exclusive rights granted thereunder or otherwise cause any breach
thereof to occur. For the avoidance of doubt only the League may enforce this Rule against a
Club and no other Person shall have any right under the Contracts (Rights of Third Parties Act)
1999 to so enforce it.
D.4.
Each Club shall indemnify the League against any liability the League may incur in the event of a
finding by a Court of Law or other body of competent jurisdiction that the League induced the Club
to breach a contract with a third party as a result of requiring the Club to comply with Rule D.3.
D.5.
The Title Sponsorship Contract shall not have the effect of preventing any Club from granting
any rights of whatever nature pursuant to its Club Shirt Sponsor Contract irrespective of when
the Club enters into the same and the Club Shirt Sponsor Contract of any Club shall not have
the effect of preventing any right granted pursuant to any Title Sponsorship Contract being
operated or enjoyed in respect of any Club or at the Stadium of any Club.
D.6.
Each Club shall provide such reasonable rights, facilities and services at each League Match
taking place at its Stadium as are reasonably required and as are authorised by any directive
issued by the League pursuant to Rule D.7 to enable the Visiting Club in respect of the said
League Match to comply with the terms of any Club Radio Contract to which it is party.
D.7.
The League shall issue from time to time directives to Clubs setting out those rights which may
and may not be granted by any Club in any Club Radio Contract and each Club shall comply in
all respects with any such directive.
D.8.
In the case of a Commercial Contract and/or a Title Sponsorship Contract a Club shall not be
bound to comply with Rule D.3 if:
D.8.1. to do so would result in the Club being in breach of a contractual obligation entered
into before the date of the Article 49 Resolution authorising or approving it; or
D.8.2. such Commercial Contract and/or Title Sponsorship Contract has not been entered
into by the League within 6 months of the Article 49 Resolution relating to it.
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SECTION D: THE LEAGUE FINANCE
Accounting Practice
Subject to Rule D.10, all income of the League shall be allocated to its financial periods in
accordance with generally accepted accounting practice.
D.10.
Notwithstanding the foregoing provisions of Rule D.9, advances received or early payment of
other contracted accounts may be treated as income of the financial period in which they are
received provided that in each case a Resolution is passed to that effect.
Operating and Other Expenses
D.11.
The operating and other expenses of the League and the League shall be paid, at the discretion
of the Board, out of Overseas Broadcasting Money, Commercial Contract Money, Radio
Contract Money, Title Sponsorship Money or any other income of the League excluding UK
Broadcasting Money.
D.12.
Subject to the prior approval of Clubs in General Meeting, the Board shall be empowered to
require Clubs to pay to the League from time to time any sum by which its income, excluding
UK Broadcasting Money, falls short of the operating and other expenses of the League.
D.13.
Each Club and Relegated Club shall contribute to the Professional Game Youth Fund and to the
Premier League Charitable Fund and other community and charitable initiatives and
obligations such sum as is approved by a General Meeting, such contributions to be deducted
from the distributions for the Basic Award Fund made pursuant to Rule D.18.1.
Transmission of League Matches
D.14.
No Transmission shall be made of any League Match except:
D.14.1. in accordance with any UK Broadcasting Contract or Overseas Broadcasting
Contract; or
D.14.2.
as permitted by Rules K.38 and K.39; or
D.14.3. in accordance with the terms of any express license or permission issued in writing
by the League.
D.15.
No Radio Transmission shall be made of any League Match except in accordance with:
D.15.1.
any Radio Contract; or
D.15.2.
any Club Radio Contract; or
D.15.3.
the terms of any express licence or permission issued in writing by the League.
Distribution of UK Broadcasting Money
D.16.
The League shall pay out of UK Broadcasting Money:
D.16.1. such sums as may be agreed from time to time shall be payable to the Professional
Footballers Association for Players educational, insurance and benevolent
purposes; and
D.16.2.
any other sum approved by a Resolution.
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PREMIER LEAGUE RULES: SECTION A
D
D.9.
SECTION D: THE LEAGUE FINANCE
PREMIER LEAGUE RULES: SECTION A
D
D.17.
The balance of UK Broadcasting Money shall be divided so that:
D.17.1.
one half shall comprise the Basic Award Fund;
D.17.2.
one quarter shall comprise the Merit Payments Fund; and
D.17.3.
one quarter shall comprise the Facility Fees Fund.
Each of the Basic Award Fund and the Merit Payments Fund shall be divided into such number
of shares as shall be required in either case to put into effect the provisions of Rules D.18.1,
D.18.2 and D.28 and the Facility Fees Fund shall be distributed in accordance with the
provisions of Rule D.18.3.
D.18.
In consideration of Clubs providing such rights, facilities and services as are required to enable
the League to fulfil any UK Broadcasting Contract:
D.18.1. subject to Rules E.25, E.34 and E.38, the Basic Award Fund shall be distributed by
way of fees so that each Club receives 1 share and each Relegated Club the
percentage of 1 share set out in Rule D.28;
D.18.2. as soon as practicable after the end of each Season, subject to Rules E.25 and E.34,
the Merit Payments Fund shall be distributed by way of fees in accordance with the
following table:
End of Season
Number of shares
League position
1
100
20
19
18
17
16
15
14
13
12
10
11
11
10
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
SECTION D: THE LEAGUE FINANCE
Distribution of Overseas Broadcasting Money
D.19.
The League shall pay out of Overseas Broadcasting Money:
D.19.1.
its operating and other expenses in accordance with Rule D.11; and
D.19.2. any other sum approved by a Resolution and the balance thereof shall be divided
into such number of shares as shall be required to put into effect the provisions of
Rule D.20.
D.20.
In consideration of Clubs providing such rights, facilities and services as are required to enable
the League to fulfil any Overseas Broadcasting Contract, as soon as practicable during or after
the end of each Season, subject to Rules E.25, E.34, E.38 and K.43, the balance of Overseas
Broadcasting Money shall be distributed by way of fees so that each Club receives 1 share and
each Relegated Club the percentage of 1 share set out in Rule D.28.
Distribution of Title Sponsorship Money
D.21.
Subject to any contrary requirement contained in a Title Sponsorship Contract, the League
shall pay out of Title Sponsorship Money:
D.21.1.
its operating and other expenses in accordance with Rule D.11; and
D.21.2.
any other sum approved by a Resolution;
and the balance thereof shall be divided into such number of shares as shall be required to put
into effect the provisions of Rule D.22.
D.22.
In consideration of Clubs providing such rights, facilities and services as are required to enable
the League to fulfil any Title Sponsorship Contract, as soon as practicable during or after the
end of each Season, subject to Rules E.25, E.34 and E.38, the balance of Title Sponsorship
Money shall be distributed by way of fees so that each Club receives 1 share and each Relegated
Club the percentage of 1 share set out in Rule D.28.
Distribution of Commercial Contract Money
D.23.
D.24.
The League shall pay out of Commercial Contract Money:
D.23.1.
its operating and other expenses in accordance with Rule D.11; and
D.23.2.
any other sum approved by a Resolution.
In consideration of Clubs providing such rights, facilities and services as are required to enable
the League to fulfil any Commercial Contract, as soon as practicable during or after the end of
each Season, subject to Rules D.25, E.25 and E.34, the balance of Commercial Contract Money
shall be distributed by way of fees equally between Clubs.
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PREMIER LEAGUE RULES: SECTION A
D
D.18.3. The Board shall in respect of each Season determine the amounts to be paid to
Clubs by way of facility fees for League Matches which are televised live or of which
recorded excerpts are broadcast. During or after the end of each Season, subject to
Rules E.25 and E.34, such facility fees shall be paid out of the Facility Fees Fund to
those Clubs which have participated in each of such League Matches, whether as a
Home Club or a Visiting Club.
SECTION D: THE LEAGUE FINANCE
PREMIER LEAGUE RULES: SECTION A
D
D.25.
Commercial Contract Money derived from a Commercial Contract relating to the provision of
perimeter advertising boards at Stadia shall be distributed to those Clubs that provide such
boards in proportion in each case to the amount of perimeter board inventory provided.
Distribution of Radio Contract Money
D.26.
D.27.
The League shall pay out of Radio Contract Money:
D.26.1.
its operating and other expenses in accordance with Rule D.11; and
D.26.2.
any other sum approved by a Resolution.
In consideration of Clubs providing such rights, facilities and services as are required to enable
the League to fulfil any Radio Contract, as soon as practicable during or after the end of each
Season, subject to Rule E.25 and E.34, the balance of Radio Contract Money shall be distributed
by way of fees equally between Clubs.
Relegated Clubs
D.28.
Subject to Rules D.29, E.25, E.34 and E.38, each Relegated Club shall receive the following
fees:
D.28.1. in the first Season after being relegated, a sum equivalent to 55% of 1 share of each
of the Basic Award Fund and Overseas Broadcasting Money;
D.28.2. in the second Season after being relegated, a sum equivalent to 45% of 1 share of
each of the Basic Award Fund and Overseas Broadcasting Money; and
D.28.3. in each of the third and fourth Seasons after being relegated, a sum equivalent to
25% of 1 share of each of the Basic Award Fund and Overseas Broadcasting Money.
D.29.
There shall be deducted from each payment to a Relegated Club made pursuant to Rules D.28
the sum of 2.3m.
Guidance
At a Club meeting on 11 September 2014 it was resolved that Rules A.1.136, D.28 and D.29 wil be amended for Season
2016/17.
Value Added Tax
D.30.
Value Added Tax shall be added to each fee paid in accordance with Rules D.18, D.20, D.22,
D.24, D.27 and D.28.
Distribution Account
D.31.
102
Each distribution made under the provisions of Rules D.18, D.20, D.22, D.24 and D.27 shall be
accompanied by an account showing how it has been computed.
SECTION D: THE LEAGUE FINANCE
Assignments of Central Funds
D.32.
If a Club or a Relegated Club proposes to charge, assign or otherwise grant security over all or
part of its entitlement to future distributions of Central Funds, it shall:
D.32.2. not enter into the said proposed documentation without the prior written consent
of the League (not to be unreasonably withheld); and
D.32.3. procure that it and its lender enter into an agreement with the League whereby the
lender will confirm that:
D.32.3.1. it understands that the Clubs entitlement to future distributions of
Central Funds is subject to the provisions of the Articles and these Rules
and in particular (without prejudice to the generality of the foregoing)
to Rules E.25, E.34 and E.28; and
D.32.3.2. the Club has disclosed to it the Clubs current and future liabilities to
other Clubs (and clubs) and the League will confirm that such disclosure
accords with its records of such liabilities.
D.33.
Rule D.32 shall not apply to any assignment, charge or other grant of security by a Club of its
future entitlement to Central Funds as part of a fixed and floating charge over the entirety of
its assets and undertaking on usual commercial terms.
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PREMIER LEAGUE RULES: SECTION A
D
D.32.1. disclose to the League the proposed documentation with the lender giving effect to
such charge, assignment or other grant of security;
CLUBS: FINANCE AND GOVERNANCE
SECTION E: CLUBS FINANCE
Power to Inspect
PREMIER LEAGUE RULES: SECTION E
E.1.
The Board either by itself or by any person appointed by it shall be empowered to inspect the
financial records of any Club which it reasonably suspects has acted in breach of these Rules.
Club Bank Accounts
E.2.
Each Club shall submit to the Secretary Form 2 signed by 2 Directors of the Club and
specifying a bank account, to be in the name of and controlled by the Club, into which the
League shall pay monies due to the Club from the League in accordance with and subject to
these Rules save that if that Club has assigned its entitlement to such monies or any part of
them, payment will be made by the League as directed in the assignment.
Submission of Club Accounts
E.3.
Each Club shall by 1st March in each Season submit to the Secretary a copy of its annual
accounts in respect of its most recent financial year or if the Club considers it appropriate or
the Secretary so requests the Group Accounts of the Group of which it is a member (in either
case such accounts to be prepared and audited in accordance with applicable legal and
regulatory requirements) together with a copy of the directors report for that year and a
copy of the auditors report on those accounts.
E.4.
The accounts referred to in Rule E.3 shall:
E.4.1. include separate disclosure within the balance sheet or notes to the accounts, or
by way of supplementary information separately reported on by its auditors by
way of procedures specified by the Board, of the total sums payable and receivable
in respect of Compensation Fees, Contingent Sums and Loan Fees;
E.4.2. include a breakdown within the profit and loss account or the notes to the
accounts, or by way of supplementary information separately reported on by its
auditors by way of procedures specified by the Board, of revenue in appropriate
categories such as gate receipts, sponsorship and advertising, broadcasting rights,
commercial income and other income.
E.5.
If the auditors report on the accounts submitted pursuant to Rule E.3 contains anything
other than an unqualified opinion without modification, the Club shall at the Boards request
submit such further documentary evidence as the Board shall require (including but not
limited to Future Financial Information).
E.6.
If the annual accounts of a Club or Group Accounts submitted pursuant to Rule E.3 are
prepared to a date prior to 30th November in the Season of submission, such Club or Group
shall by the following 31st March submit to the Secretary interim accounts covering the
period commencing from its accounting reference date and ending on a date between the
following 30th November and 1st March.
E.7.
The interim accounts shall:
E.7.1. comprise a balance sheet, a profit and loss account, a cash flow statement and
relevant explanatory notes;
E.7.2.
be prepared in accordance with the accounting principles adopted in the
preparation of the Clubs annual accounts;
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SECTION E: CLUBS FINANCE
E.7.3. be presented in a similar format to the annual accounts including as regards the
matters set out in Rule E.4;
E.7.4. include in the profit and loss account and cashflow statement comparative figures
for the same period in the preceding year;
include a balance sheet as of the end of the preceding financial year;
E.7.6. be approved in writing by the board of directors of the company to which they
relate; and
E.7.7.
be reviewed or audited in accordance with applicable regulatory requirements.
E.8.
Rule E.5 shall apply to the interim accounts (with appropriate modification) if the auditors
have issued anything other than an unqualified opinion without modification on them.
E.9.
Each Club must by 7th April (or such later date as the Board shall specify) in each Season
prove that, subject to Rule E.10:
E.9.1. no Compensation Fee, Loan Fee or Contingent Sum payable pursuant to a Transfer
Agreement entered into prior to the preceding 31st December; and
E.9.2. no sum payable to or in respect of an employee in relation to services provided
prior to the preceding 31st December (including PAYE and NIC)
is or was overdue as at the preceding 31st March.
E.10.
For the purpose of Rule E.9:
E.10.1. employee means a Player, a Manager, any Official referred to in Rule J.1, an
Academy Manager, a Team Doctor and a senior physiotherapist referred to in Rule
O.11, an assistant manager or head coach referred to in Rule P.13 and a safety
officer;
E.10.2. an amount shall not be treated as overdue as at 31st March if by that date it has
been paid or the date for payment has been extended by means of a written
agreement with the creditor or it is the subject of current litigation or arbitration
proceedings or has been submitted to a dispute resolution procedure of the
League, the Football Association, UEFA or FIFA.
E.11.
By 31st March in each Season, each Club shall submit to the Secretary in respect of itself (or
if the Club considers it appropriate or the Secretary so requests in respect of the Group of
which it is a member) future financial information (Future Financial Information)
comprising projected profit and loss accounts, cash flow, balance sheets and relevant
explanatory notes commencing from its accounting reference date or, if it has submitted
interim accounts pursuant to Rule E.6, from the date to which those interim accounts were
prepared and expiring on the next accounting reference date after the end of the following
Season. The projected profit and loss accounts, cash flow and balance sheets shall be
prepared at a maximum of quarterly intervals.
E.12.
The Future Financial Information shall:
E.12.1.
be prepared in accordance with the accounting principles adopted in the
preparation of the Clubs annual accounts (except where the accounting principles
and policies are to be changed in the subsequent annual accounts, in which case
the new accounting principles and polices should be followed); and
105
PREMIER LEAGUE RULES: SECTION E
E.7.5.
SECTION E: CLUBS FINANCE
E.12.2. be approved in writing by the board of directors of the company to which they
relate; and
PREMIER LEAGUE RULES: SECTION E
E.12.3.
to include in the explanatory notes thereto principal assumptions and risks; and
E.12.4. include for comparison profit and loss accounts for the period covered by the
annual accounts and interim accounts submitted pursuant to Rules E.3 and E.6, a
forecast for the current financial year and a balance sheet as at the date of the
interim accounts submitted pursuant to Rule E.6.
E.13.
Each Promoted Club shall by 30th June in the year of its promotion submit to the Secretary:
E.13.1. copies of the documents and other information that it would have been required
to submit to the Secretary pursuant to Rules E.3, E.6 and E.9 by 1st March of that
year had it then been a member of the Premier League;
E.13.2.
Future Financial Information commencing from 1st July in the year of its
promotion and expiring on the Clubs next accounting reference date after the
end of the following Season; and
E.13.3.
E.14.
any further documentary evidence required pursuant to Rules E.5 and E.8.
The Board shall have the powers set out in Rule E.15 if:
E.14.1. the Club has failed to submit to the Secretary annual accounts as required by
Rules E.3 and E.4 or Rule E.13; or
E.14.2. the Club has failed to submit to the Secretary interim accounts as required by Rule
E.6 or Rule E.13; or
E.14.3. the Club has failed to submit to the Secretary the Future Financial Information as
required by Rule E.11 or Rule E.13; or
E.14.4. the Board has asked the Club to submit further documentary evidence pursuant
to Rule E.5, Rule E.8 or Rule E.13 and the Club has failed to do so; or
E.14.5. the Club has failed to satisfy the Board that no sums of the kind set out in Rule E.9
(and subject to Rule E.10) were overdue as at the preceding 31st March; or
E.14.6. the auditors report on the annual accounts or interim accounts of the Club or the
Group submitted pursuant to Rule E.3 and Rule E.6 respectively or Rule E.13
contains anything other than an unqualified opinion without modification; or
E.14.7. as a result of its review of all the documents and information submitted by the Club
pursuant to Rules E.3 to E.13, and having taken into account any failure of the Club
to supply any such documents or information, in its reasonable opinion it determines
that the Club will not over the course of the following Season be able to:
E.14.7.1. pay its liabilities to the creditors listed in Rule E.27 (in so far as they are
or will become creditors of the Club) and to its employees as they fall
due; or
E.14.7.2. fulfil its obligation under Rule C.1 to play 2 League Matches against
each other Club; or
E.14.7.3. fulfil its obligations under Rule D.3 to provide such rights, facilities and
services as are required to enable the League to fulfil its Commercial
Contracts, UK Broadcasting Contracts, Overseas Broadcasting
Contracts, Radio Contracts and Title Sponsorship Contracts.
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SECTION E: CLUBS FINANCE
E.15.
The powers referred to in Rule E.14 are:
E.15.1. to require the Club to submit, agree and adhere to a budget which shall include,
but not be limited to, the matters set out in Rule H.1.1 to H.1.3;
E.15.3. to refuse any application by that Club to register any Player or any new contract
of an existing Player of that Club if the Board reasonably deems that this is
necessary in order to secure that the Club complies with its obligations listed in
Rule E.14.7.
E.16.
If any Person proposes to acquire Control of a Club:
E.16.1. the Club shall submit to the Secretary up-to-date Future Financial Information
prepared to take into account the consequences of the change of Control on the
Clubs future financial position as soon as reasonably practicable prior to the
change of Control or, if such submission is not reasonably practicable prior to the
change of Control, no later than 10 Working Days thereafter; and
E.16.2. the Board shall have power to require the Person who proposes to acquire or has
acquired Control to appear before it and to provide evidence of the source and
sufficiency of any funds which that Person proposes to invest in or otherwise
make available to the Club;
E.17.
If the Board determines, in its reasonable opinion, and having considered any information
provided to it pursuant to Rule E.16, that the Club will not be able to fulfil its obligations as
set out in Rules E.14.7.1 to E.14.7.3, then the Board shall have the powers set out in Rule E.15.
Short Term Cost Control
E.18.
E.19.
Rule E.19 shall apply if in any of Contract Years 2013/14, 2014/15 and 2015/16 a Clubs
aggregated Player Services Costs and Image Contract Payments:
E.18.1.
exceed 52m, 56m, or 60m respectively; and
E.18.2.
have increased by more than 4m when compared with the previous Contract Year.
If Rule E.18 applies, the Club must satisfy the Board that either:
E.19.1 the total increase is not greater than 4m, 8m or 12m respectively when
compared with Contract Year 2012/13; or
E.19.2 the excess increase as is referred to in E.18.2 arises as a result of contractual
commitments entered into on or before 31 January 2013, and/or that it has been
funded only by Club Own Revenue Uplift and/or profit from player trading as
disclosed in the Clubs Annual Accounts for that Contract Year.
Guidance
Pursuant to Rules E.18 and E.19, the Board may require further information from the Club including (but not limited to):
a) confirmation that Club Own Revenue Uplift has been calculated on a like-for-like basis; and
b) satisfactory evidence that revenue included within the calculation of Club Own Revenue Uplift has not been
artificially inflated.
In addition, the Board may adjust a Club Own Revenue Uplift by assessing any revenue within it from Related Party
Transactions to Fair Market Value. As set out in the definition of Club Own Revenue Uplift (Rule A.1.35), the Board must
give the Club the opportunity to make submissions before it does so.
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E.15.2. to require the Club to provide such further information as the Board shall
determine and for such period as it shall determine; and
SECTION E: CLUBS FINANCE
E.20.
With effect from 2014, on or before 1 March in each Season, each Club shall submit Form 3
to the Secretary.
PREMIER LEAGUE RULES: SECTION E
Guidance
The first reporting via Form 3 took place in March 2014 in respect of Contract Year 2012/13 so that the League has each
Clubs historic figures in time for the first full assessment under these Rules in February 2015.
Clubs attention is drawn to Rule T.15 with regard to the failure to submit Form 3.
E.21.
The information set out in Form 3 shall be reported upon by the Clubs auditors, in accordance
with procedures specified by the League from time to time.
HMRC
E.22.
Each Club shall provide quarterly certification in such form as the Board may request from
time to time to confirm that its liabilities to HMRC in respect of PAYE and NIC are up to date
(that is, no more than 28 days in arrears).
E.23.
Each Club shall promptly on request from the Board:
E.23.1. provide confirmation (to be signed by two Directors) as to whether it has any
outstanding liabilities to HMRC, and if it has it shall provide the Board with full
details thereof (including details of any agreements which are in place with HMRC
as regards such liabilities); and
E.23.2. provide HMRC with written permission in such form as HMRC may require for
HMRC to share information about the Clubs liabilities to HMRC with the League.
E.24.
Where the Board reasonably believes that a Clubs liabilities in respect of PAYE & NIC are not
up to date (as defined in Rule E.22) it may exercise the powers set out in Rule E.15.
Power to Deduct
E.25.
If the Board is reasonably satisfied that a Club or Relegated Club (the debtor Club) has failed
to make any payment due to any creditor of the description set out in Rule E.27, the Board
shall be empowered to:
E.25.1. deduct the amount of any such payment from any distribution of UK Broadcasting
Money, Overseas Broadcasting Money, Commercial Contract Money, Radio
Contract Money or Title Sponsorship Money (Central Funds) payable to the
debtor Club, paying the same to the creditor to which it is due; and
E.25.2. withhold any distribution of Central Funds otherwise due to the debtor Club to
the extent of any liabilities falling due from the debtor Club to any creditor of the
description set out in Rule E.27 within the period of 60 days after the due date of
the distribution of the Central Funds to the debtor Club, and pay the same to the
creditor on the date when it is due to that creditor should the debtor Club fail to
do so.
E.26.
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The Board shall only have the powers set out in Rule E.25.2 if the debtor Club has failed to
make any payment when due (whether or not paid thereafter) to a creditor of the description
set out in Rule E.27 within the period of 120 days immediately prior to the due date of
distribution of the Central Funds to the debtor Club.
SECTION E: CLUBS FINANCE
E.27.
The creditors to which Rule E.25 applies are:
E.27.1.
another Club (or club); or
E.27.2.
the League; or
E.27.4. any pension or life assurance scheme administered by or on behalf of the League; or
E.27.5.
the Football League; or
E.27.6. any Associated Undertaking, Fellow Subsidiary Undertaking, Group Undertaking,
or Subsidiary Undertaking of the Football League; or
E.27.7.
E.28.
the Football Foundation.
If any Transferee Club act in breach of Rules V.29 or V.32 to V.36 inclusive:
E.28.1.
Rule V.37 shall apply; and
E.28.2. out of any monies held by the Board for or on behalf of or to the order of that
Transferee Club (whether in the Compensation Fee Account or otherwise), the
Board shall have power to pay to its Transferor Club any amount not exceeding
the sum due to it from the Transferee Club under the provisions of this Section
of these Rules.
Events of Insolvency
E.29.
Subject to Rule E.37, the Board shall have power to suspend a Club by giving to it notice in
writing to that effect if it or its Parent Undertaking suffers an Event of Insolvency, that is to
say:
E.29.1. it enters into a Company Voluntary Arrangement pursuant to Part 1 of the
Insolvency Act 1986 (the 1986 Act) or a compromise or arrangement with its
creditors under Part 26 of the Act or enters into any compromise agreement with
its creditors as a whole; or
E.29.2. it or its shareholders or directors lodge a Notice of Intention to Appoint an
Administrator or Notice of Appointment of an Administrator at the Court in
accordance with paragraph 26 or paragraph 29 of Schedule B1 to the 1986 Act or
where it or its shareholders or directors make an application to the Court for an
Administration Order under paragraph 12 of Schedule B1 to the 1986 Act or
where an Administrator is appointed or an Administration Order is made in
respect of it (Administrator and Administration Order having the meanings
attributed to them respectively by paragraphs 1 and 10 of Schedule B1 to the 1986
Act); or
E.29.3. an Administrative Receiver (as defined by section 251 of the 1986 Act), a Law of
Property Act Receiver (appointed under section 109 of the Law of Property Act
1925) or any Receiver appointed by the Court under the Supreme Court Act 1981
or any other Receiver is appointed over any of its assets which, in the opinion of
the Board, are material to the Clubs ability to fulfil its obligations as a member of
the League; or
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E.27.3. any Associated Undertaking, Fellow Subsidiary Undertaking, Group Undertaking,
or Subsidiary Undertaking of the League; or
SECTION E: CLUBS FINANCE
E.29.4. its shareholders pass a resolution pursuant to section 84(1) of the 1986 Act to
voluntarily wind it up; or
PREMIER LEAGUE RULES: SECTION E
E.29.5. a meeting of its creditors is convened pursuant to section 95 or section 98 of the
1986 Act; or
E.29.6. a winding up order is made against it by the Court under section 122 of the 1986
Act or a provisional liquidator is appointed over it under section 135 of the 1986
Act; or
E.29.7. it ceases or forms an intention to cease wholly or substantially to carry on its
business save for the purpose of reconstruction or amalgamation or otherwise in
accordance with a scheme of proposals which have previously been submitted to
and approved in writing by the Board; or
E.29.8. it enters into or is placed into any insolvency regime in any jurisdiction outside
England and Wales which is analogous with the insolvency regimes detailed in
Rules E.29.1 to E.29.6 hereof.
E.30.
A Club shall forthwith give written notice to the Board upon the happening of any of the
events referred to in Rule E.29.
E.31.
At the discretion of the Board exercised in accordance with Rule E.37, a suspension may take
effect from the giving of the notice or it may be postponed subject to:
E.31.1. a condition that while the suspension is postponed the Club may not apply to
register or have transferred to it the registration of any Player; and
E.31.2.
such other conditions as the Board may from time to time during the
postponement of the suspension think fit to impose.
E.32.
Unless a suspension is postponed, a suspended Club shall not play in:
E.32.1.
any League Match; or
E.32.2. any matches organised as part of the Games Programmes or matches in the
Professional Development Leagues (as those terms are defined in the Youth
Development Rules); or
E.32.3.
any of the competitions set out in Rules L.9 and L.10; or
E.32.4.
any other match.
E.33.
For the purposes of the League competition, the Board shall have power to determine how
the cancellation of a League Match caused by the suspension of one of the Clubs which
should have participated in it shall be treated.
E.34.
While pursuant to this Section of these Rules a Club is suspended or its suspension is
postponed, the Board shall have power, subject to Rule E.37, to make such payments as it
may think fit to the Clubs Football Creditors out of:
E.34.1. any UK Broadcasting Money payable to the suspended Club under the provisions
of Rule D.18; and
E.34.2. any Overseas Broadcasting Money payable to the suspended Club under the
provisions of Rule D.20; and
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E.34.3. any Title Sponsorship Money payable to the suspended Club under the provisions
of Rule D.22; and
E.34.4. any Commercial Contract Money payable to the suspended Club under the
provisions of Rule D.24; and
E.35.
For the purposes of this Section of these Rules, Football Creditors shall comprise:
E.35.1.
the Football Association and clubs in full or associate membership thereof; and
E.35.2. Affiliated Associations (as defined by the articles of association of the Football
Association); and
E.35.3.
the League and any subsidiary of it; and
E.35.4. the Football League, the Football Conference, the Northern Premier League, the
Southern Premier League and the Isthmian Football League; and
E.35.5.
the Professional Footballers Association; and
E.35.6.
the Football Foundation; and
E.35.7. any employee or former employee of the suspended Club to whom arrears of
wages or salary are due, to the extent of such arrears; and
E.35.8. any pension provider to which a pension contribution payable by the suspended
Club in respect of its employees or former employees is due, to the extent of such
contribution.
E.36.
Upon being reasonably satisfied that a suspended Clubs liabilities to its Football Creditors
have been settled, the Board shall have power, subject to Rule E.37, to withdraw the
suspension of that Club by giving to it notice in writing to that effect.
E.37.
In exercising its powers under Rules E.29, E.34, E.36 and E.39 and its discretion under Rule
E.31, the Board shall have regard to all the circumstances of the case and to:
E.37.1. such of the provisions of the Insolvency Act 1986, the Competition Act 1998 and
the Enterprise Act 2002 as are relevant and then in force;
E.37.2. the consideration (if any) given by the insolvent Club under the provisions of Rules
D.18, D.20, D.22, D.24 and D.27;
E.37.3. the interests of the insolvent Clubs Officials, Players, supporters, shareholders
and sponsors;
E.37.4.
the interests of the insolvent Clubs other Football Creditors;
E.37.5.
the need to protect the integrity and continuity of the League competition;
E.37.6. the reputation of the League and the need to promote the game of association
football generally; and
E.37.7. the relationship between the Club and its Parent Undertaking, in the event that
the Parent Undertaking suffers the Event of Insolvency.
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E.34.5. any Radio Contract Money payable to the suspended Club under the provisions of
Rule D.27.
SECTION E: CLUBS FINANCE
PREMIER LEAGUE RULES: SECTION E
E.38.
Any distribution to a Relegated Club under the provisions of Rules D.18, D.20 or D.22 may be
deferred if, on or before the date of the distribution, the Relegated Club has been given notice
under article 4.5 of the articles of association of the Football League which has been
suspended. Upon such notice being withdrawn the deferred distribution shall be paid but if
in consequence of the notice the club to which it was due ceases to be a member of the
Football League its amount shall be added to the next distribution made in accordance with
these Rules.
Sporting Sanction
E.39.
Upon a Club or its Parent Undertaking suffering an Event of Insolvency the Board shall have
the power to impose upon the Club a deduction of 9 points scored or to be scored in the
League competition. If the Board exercises this power it shall forthwith give written notice to
the Club to that effect.
E.40.
Subject to Rule E.41, the Club may appeal against the deduction of points by sending or
delivering to the Secretary Form 4 so that he receives the same together with a deposit of
1,000 within 7 days of the date of the notice given under the provisions of Rule E.39 (time
of the essence).
E.41.
The only ground upon which a Club may appeal as aforesaid is that:
E.41.1. the Event of Insolvency was caused by and resulted directly from circumstances,
other than normal business risks, over which it could not reasonably be expected
to have had control; and
E.41.2.
E.42.
its Officials had used all due diligence to avoid the happening of that event.
An appeal under the provisions of Rule E.40 shall lie to an appeal tribunal which shall hear the
appeal as soon as reasonably practicable. The appeal tribunal shall be appointed by the
Board and shall comprise 3 members of the Panel including:
E.42.1.
an authorised insolvency practitioner; and
E.42.2.
a legally qualified member who shall sit as chairman of the tribunal.
E.43.
The chairman of the appeal tribunal shall have regard to the procedures governing the
proceedings of Commissions and Appeal Boards set out in Section W of these Rules
(Disciplinary) but, subject as aforesaid, shall have an overriding discretion as to the manner
in which the appeal is conducted.
E.44.
The Club shall have the onus of proof of the matters set out in the appeal on the balance of
probabilities.
E.45.
If the members of the appeal tribunal are not unanimous the decision of the majority of
them shall prevail.
E.46.
The appeal tribunal shall give written reasons for its decision.
E.47.
Members of the appeal tribunal shall be entitled to receive from the League a reasonable sum
by way of fees and expenses.
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SECTION E: CLUBS FINANCE
E.48.
The appeal tribunal shall have the following powers:
E.48.1.
to allow or dismiss the appeal;
E.48.2.
to order the deposit to be forfeited to the League or repaid to the appellant Club;
E.49.
The decision of the appeal tribunal shall be final and binding on the appellant Club.
General
E.50.
Each Club shall notify the League forthwith of any circumstances which may materially and
adversely affect any of the information or representations submitted to the League pursuant
to this Section E, and on consideration of those circumstances the Board may, if it considers
it appropriate, amend any decision or determination that it made based on such information
or representations.
E.51.
The information and representations referred to in Rule E.50 include, without limitation:
E.51.1.
Future Financial Information;
E.51.2.
the estimated profit and loss account submitted pursuant to Rule E.53.21;
E.51.3. information and undertakings provided to the League in connection with Secure
Funding2.
Profitability and Sustainability
E.52.
Rules E.53 to E.59 shall apply with effect from Season 2015/16.
E.53.
Each Club shall by 1 March in each Season submit to the Secretary:
E.53.1. copies of its Annual Accounts for T-1 (and T-2 if these have not previously been
submitted to the Secretary) together with copies of the directors report(s) and
auditors report(s) on those accounts;
E.53.2.
its estimated profit and loss account and balance sheet for T which shall:
E.53.2.1. be prepared in all material respects in a format similar to the Clubs
Annual Accounts; and
E.53.2.2. be based on the latest information available to the Club and be, to the
best of the Clubs knowledge and belief, an accurate estimate as at the
time of preparation of future financial performance; and
E.53.3. if Rule E.56 applies to the Club, the calculation of its aggregated Adjusted Earnings
Before Tax for T, T-1 and T-2 in Form 4A.
Guidance
The Board will in due course consider the Annual Accounts for the Accounting Reference Period in respect of which
information pursuant to Rule E.53.2 is submitted and in particular examine whether any material variances indicate that
the estimated financial information was not prepared in accordance with Rule E.53.2.2.
1
2
Rule E.53.2 comes into force with effect from Season 2015/16.
Secure Funding is referred to in Rule E.58 which comes into force with effect from Season 2015/16.
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E.48.3. to order the appellant Club to pay or contribute to the costs of the appeal
including the fees and expenses of members of the appeal tribunal paid or
payable under Rule E.47.
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SECTION E: CLUBS FINANCE
E.54.
The Board shall determine whether consideration included in the Clubs Earnings Before Tax
arising from a Related Party Transaction is recorded in the Clubs Annual Accounts at a Fair
Market Value. If it is not, the Board shall restate it to Fair Market Value.
E.55.
The Board shall not exercise its power set out in Rule E.54 without first having given the Club
reasonable opportunity to make submissions as to:
E.55.1.
whether the said consideration should be restated; and/or
E.55.2.
what constitutes its Fair Market Value.
E.56.
If the aggregation of a Clubs Earnings Before Tax for T-1 and T-2 results in a loss, any
consideration from Related Party Transactions having been adjusted (if appropriate)
pursuant to Rule E.54, then the Club must submit to the Secretary the calculation of its
Adjusted Earnings Before Tax for each of T, T-1 and T-2.
E.57.
If the aggregation of a Clubs Adjusted Earnings Before Tax for T, T-1 and T-2 results in a loss
of up to 15m, then the Board shall determine whether the Club will, until the end of T+1, be
able to pay its liabilities described in Rule E.14.7.1 and fulfil the obligations set out in Rules
E.14.7.2 and E.14.7.3.
E.58.
If the aggregation of a Clubs Adjusted Earnings Before Tax for T, T-1 and T-2 results in a loss
of in excess of 15m then the following shall apply:
E.58.1. the Club shall provide, by 31 March in the relevant Season, Future Financial
Information to cover the period commencing from its last accounting reference
date (as defined in section 391 of the Act) until the end of T+2 and a calculation of
estimated aggregated Adjusted Earnings Before Tax until the end of T+2 based on
that Future Financial Information;
E.58.2. the Club shall provide such evidence of Secure Funding as the Board considers
sufficient; and
E.58.3. if the Club is unable to provide evidence of Secure Funding as set out in Rule
E.58.2, the Board may exercise its powers set out in Rule E.15.
E.59.
If the aggregation of a Clubs Adjusted Earnings Before Tax for T, T-1 and T-2 results in losses
of in excess of 105m:
E.59.1.
the Board may exercise its powers set out in Rule E.15; and
E.59.2. the Club shall be treated as being in breach of these Rules and accordingly the
Board shall refer the breach to a Commission constituted pursuant to Section W
of these Rules.
E.60.
114
The sum set out in Rule E.59 shall be reduced by 22m for each Season covered by T-1 and
T-2 in which the Club was in membership of the Football League.
SECTION E: CLUBS FINANCE
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CLUBS: FINANCE AND GOVERNANCE
SECTION F: OWNERS AND DIRECTORS TEST
Disqualifying Events
F.1.
A Person shall be disqualified from acting as a Director and no Club shall be permitted to
have any Person acting as a Director of that Club if:
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F.1.1. either directly or indirectly he is involved in or has any power to determine or
influence the management or administration of another Club or Football League
club; or
F.1.2. either directly or indirectly he holds or acquires any Significant Interest in a Club
while he either directly or indirectly holds any interest in any class of Shares of
another Club; or
F.1.3. he becomes prohibited by law from being a director (including without limitation
as a result of being subject to a disqualification order as a director under the
Company Directors Disqualification Act 1986 (as amended or any equivalent
provisions in any jurisdiction which has a substantially similar effect), or being
subject to the terms of an undertaking given to the Secretary of State under that
Act (as amended or any equivalent provisions in any jurisdiction which has a
substantially similar effect), unless a court of competent jurisdiction makes an
order under that Act permitting an appointment as a Director); or
F.1.4. he has a Conviction (which is not a Spent Conviction) imposed by a court of the
United Kingdom or a competent court of foreign jurisdiction:
F.1.4.1. in respect of which an unsuspended sentence of at least 12 months
imprisonment was imposed; or
F.1.4.2. in respect of any offence involving any act which could reasonably be
considered to be dishonest (and, for the avoidance of doubt, irrespective
of the actual sentence imposed); or
F.1.4.3. in respect of an offence set out in the Appendix 1 Schedule of Offences or a
directly analogous offence in a foreign jurisdiction (and, for the avoidance of
doubt, irrespective of the actual sentence imposed); or
F.1.5.
he becomes the subject of:
F.1.5.1. an Individual Voluntary Arrangement (including any fast track voluntary
arrangement); or
F.1.5.2. a debt relief order (in accordance with the provisions of Part 7A of the
Insolvency Act); or
F.1.5.3. an administration order (in accordance with Part 6 of the County Courts
Act 1984); or
F.1.5.4. an enforcement restriction order (in accordance with the provisions of
Part 6A of the County Courts Act 1984); or
F.1.5.5. a debt management scheme or debt repayment plan (in accordance with
provisions of Chapter 4 or Part 5 of the Tribunals, Courts and Enforcement
Act 2007)
or any equivalent provision in any other jurisdiction which has a substantially
similar effect, and in each case as may be amended from time to time.
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SECTION F: OWNERS AND DIRECTORS TEST
F.1.6. he becomes the subject of an Interim Bankruptcy Restriction Order, a Bankruptcy
Restriction Order or a Bankruptcy Order (or any equivalent provisions in any
jurisdiction which has a substantially similar effect); or
F.1.8. he has been a Director of 2 or more Clubs or clubs each of which, while he has
been a Director of them, has suffered an Event of Insolvency in respect of each of
which a deduction of points was imposed; or
F.1.9. he is subject to a suspension or ban from involvement in the administration of a
sport by any ruling body of a sport that is registered with UK Sport or Sport
England, or any corresponding national or international association, whether such
suspension or ban is direct or indirect (for example a direction to Persons subject
to the jurisdiction of the ruling body that they should not employ, contract with
or otherwise engage or retain the services of an individual); or
F.1.10. he is subject to any form of suspension, disqualification or striking-off by a
professional body including, without limitation, the Law Society, the Solicitors
Regulation Authority, the Bar Council or the Institute of Chartered Accountants of
England and Wales or any equivalent body in any jurisdiction outside England and
Wales, whether such suspension, disqualification or striking-off is direct or
indirect (for example a direction to Persons subject to the jurisdiction of the
professional body that they should not employ, contract with or otherwise
engage or retain the services of an individual); or
F.1.11. he is required to notify personal information pursuant to Part 2 of the Sexual
Offences Act 2003; or
F.1.12. he is found to have breached (irrespective of any sanction actually imposed), or
has admitted breaching (irrespective of whether disciplinary proceedings were
brought or not):
F.1.12.1.
Rule J.6; or
F.1.12.2. any other rules in force from time to time in relation to the prohibition
on betting on football (whether in England or Wales or elsewhere).
Submission of Declaration
F.2.
Not later than 14 days before the commencement of each Season each Club shall submit to
the Secretary a duly completed Declaration in respect of each of its Directors signed by the
Director to which it refers and by an Authorised Signatory, who shall not be the same person.
F.3.
Within 21 days of becoming a member of the League each Club promoted from the Football
League shall likewise submit to the Secretary a duly completed Declaration in respect of each
of its Directors signed as aforesaid.
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F.1.7. he is or has been a Director of a Club which, while he has been a Director of it, has
suffered 2 or more unconnected Events of Insolvency in respect of each of which
a deduction of points was imposed (and for the purposes of this Rule F.1.7 and Rule
F.1.8 a person shall be deemed to have been a Director of a Club which has suffered
an Event of Insolvency if such Event of Insolvency occurred in the 30 days
immediately following his having resigned as a Director of that Club); or
SECTION F: OWNERS AND DIRECTORS TEST
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F.4.
If any person proposes to become a Director of a Club (including for the avoidance of doubt
by virtue of being a shadow director or acquiring Control of the Club):
F.4.1. the Club shall no later than 10 Working Days prior to the date on which it is
anticipated that such person shall become a Director submit to the Secretary a
duly completed Declaration in respect of that person signed by him and by an
Authorised Signatory;
F.4.2. within 5 Working Days of receipt thereof the Secretary shall confirm to the Club
whether or not he is liable to be disqualified as a Director under the provisions in
Rule F.1, and if he is so liable the Board will take the steps set out in Rule F.6; and
F.4.3. he shall not become a Director until the Club has received confirmation from the
Secretary pursuant to Rule F.4.1 above that he is not liable to be disqualified as a
Director under the provisions of Rule F.1.
Change of Directors Circumstances
F.5.
Upon the happening of an event which affects any statement contained in a submitted
Declaration:
F.5.1. the Director in respect of whom the Declaration has been made shall forthwith
give full written particulars thereof to his Club; and
F.5.2.
the Club shall thereupon give such particulars in writing to the Secretary.
Disqualification of a Director
F.6.
Upon the Board becoming aware by virtue of the submission of a Declaration or in the
circumstances referred to in Rule F.5 or by any other means that a person is liable to be
disqualified as a Director under the provisions of Rule F.1, the Board will:
F.6.1. give written notice to the person that he is disqualified, giving reasons therefore,
and (in the case of a person who is a Director) require him forthwith to resign as a
Director; and
F.6.2. give written notice to the Club that the person is disqualified, giving reasons
therefore, and (in the case of a person who is a Director) in default of the Directors
resignation, it shall procure that within 28 days of receipt of such notice the
Director is removed from his office as such.
Disciplinary Provisions
F.7.
Any Club which fails to comply with its obligations under the foregoing provisions of this
Section of these Rules or which submits a Declaration which is false in any particular shall be
in breach of these Rules and will be liable to be dealt with in accordance with the provisions
of Section W of these Rules (Disciplinary).
F.8.
Any Director who fails to comply with his obligations under the foregoing provisions of this
Section of these Rules or who fails to complete and sign a Declaration and any Director or
Authorised Signatory who signs a Declaration which is false in any particular shall likewise be
in breach of these Rules and liable to be dealt with as aforesaid.
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SECTION F: OWNERS AND DIRECTORS TEST
Suspension of the Club
If a Director who receives a notice under the provisions of Rule F.6.1 fails to resign and his Club
fails to procure his removal from office as required, or if a Club proceeds with the appointment
as a Director of a person to whom Rule F.4 applies despite having received a notice under the
provisions of Rule F.6.2, the Board shall have power to suspend the Club by giving to it notice
in writing to that effect.
F.10.
A suspended Club shall not play in:
F.10.1.
any League Match; or
F.10.2. any matches organised as part of the Games Programmes or matches in the
Professional Development Leagues (as those terms are defined in the Youth
Development Rules); or
F.10.3.
any of the competitions set out in Rules L.9 and L.10; or
F.10.4.
any other match.
F.11.
For the purposes of the League competition, the Board shall have power to determine how
the cancellation of a League Match caused by the suspension of one of the Clubs which
should have participated in it shall be treated.
F.12.
Upon being reasonably satisfied that the Director of the suspended Club has resigned or has
been removed from office, the Board shall have power to withdraw the suspension by giving
to it notice in writing to that effect.
Appeal against Disqualification of a Director
F.13.
Any person or Club who receives notice under Rule F.6 has a right to appeal the disqualification
notice(s) in accordance with the following Rules. However, for the avoidance of doubt, unless
and until any such appeal is upheld, the disqualification notice(s) will take full effect.
F.14.
Any person or Club wishing to appeal a disqualification notice must, within 21 days of the
date of that notice, send or deliver to the Secretary a notice of appeal, setting out full details
of the grounds of appeal of that person or Club, together with a deposit of 1,000.
F.15.
The only grounds upon which a person or Club may appeal a disqualification notice are:
F.15.1.
none of the Disqualifying Events set out in Rule F.1 apply; or
F.15.2. in respect of a Conviction of a court of foreign jurisdiction under Rule F.1.4, or a
suspension or ban by a sport ruling body under Rule F.1.9, or a suspension,
disqualification or striking-off by a professional body under Rule F.1.10, or a finding
of a breach of rule by a ruling body of football pursuant to Rule F.1.12.2, there are
compelling reasons why that particular Conviction, suspension, ban,
disqualification or striking-off, should not lead to disqualification; or
F.15.3. it can be proven that the Disqualifying Event has, or will within 21 days of the
notice of appeal, cease to exist; or
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SECTION F: OWNERS AND DIRECTORS TEST
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F.15.3. it can be proven that the Disqualifying Event has, or will within 21 days of the
notice of appeal, cease to exist; or
F.15.4. the Disqualifying Event is a Conviction imposed between 19th August 2004 and
5th June 2009 for an offence which would not have led to disqualification as a
Director under Premier League Rules as they applied during that period; or
F.15.5. the Disqualifying Event is a Conviction which is the subject of an appeal which
has not yet been determined and in all the circumstances it would be
unreasonable for the individual to be disqualified as a Director pending the
determination of that appeal.
F.16.
An appeal under the provisions of Rule F.13 shall lie to an appeal tribunal which shall hear the
appeal as soon as reasonably practicable. The appeal tribunal shall be appointed by the
Board and shall comprise 3 members of the Panel including a legally qualified member who
shall sit as chairman of the tribunal.
F.17.
The chairman of the appeal tribunal shall have regard to the procedures governing the
proceedings of Commissions and Appeal Boards set out in Section W of these Rules
(Disciplinary) but, subject as aforesaid, shall have an overriding discretion as to the manner
in which the appeal is conducted.
F.18.
The person or Club advancing the appeal shall have the onus of proof of the matters set out
in the appeal on the balance of probabilities.
F.19.
If the members of the appeal tribunal are not unanimous the decision of the majority of
them shall prevail.
F.20.
The appeal tribunal shall give written reasons for its decision.
F.21.
Members of the appeal tribunal shall be entitled to receive from the League a reasonable sum
by way of fees and expenses.
F.22.
The appeal tribunal shall have the following powers:
F.22.1.
to allow the appeal in full;
F.22.2.
to reject the appeal;
F.22.3. if it determines that a Disqualifying Event exists, to determine that the individual
concerned should not be banned for that period during which they will remain
subject to it and substitute such period as it shall reasonably determine, having
regard to all of the circumstances of the case;
F.22.4. to declare that no Disqualifying Event ever existed or that any Disqualifying Event
has ceased to exist;
F.22.5. to order the deposit to be forfeited to the League or to be repaid to the appellant
person or Club;
F.22.6. to order the appellant person or Club to pay or contribute to the costs of the
appeal including the fees and expenses of members of the appeal tribunal paid or
payable under Rule F.21.
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SECTION F: OWNERS AND DIRECTORS TEST
F.23.
The decision of the appeal tribunal shall be final and binding on the appellant person
and Club.
Persons Prohibited by Law from entering the United Kingdom etc
No Person may acquire any Holding in a Club if, pursuant to the law of the United Kingdom
or the European Union:
F.24.1.
he is prohibited from entering the United Kingdom; or
F.24.2. no funds or economic resources may be made available, directly or indirectly, to
or for his benefit.
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F.24.
CLUBS: FINANCE AND GOVERNANCE
SECTION G: DISCLOSURE OF OWNERSHIP
Disclosure of Ownership
PREMIER LEAGUE RULES: SECTION G
A
G.1.
A Club shall forthwith give notice in Form 6 to the Secretary if any Person either directly or
indirectly:
G.1.1.
holds; or
G.1.2.
acquires; or
G.1.3.
having held or acquired, ceases to hold
any Significant Interest in the Club.
G.2.
A Club shall forthwith give notice to the Secretary if it either directly or indirectly:
G.2.1.
holds; or
G.2.2.
acquires; or
G.2.3.
having held or acquired, ceases to hold
any Significant Interest in any other Club or club and in this Rule G.2, the definition of
Significant Interest shall be deemed to apply to clubs in the same way as to Clubs.
G.3.
A Club shall forthwith give notice to the Secretary if it is aware or if it becomes aware that
any holder of a Significant Interest in it either directly or indirectly:
G.3.1.
holds; or
G.3.2.
acquires; or
G.3.3.
having held or acquired, ceases to hold
any Significant Interest in any other Club or club and in this Rule G.3, the definition of
Significant Interest shall be deemed to apply to clubs in the same way as to Clubs.
Guidance
Clubs who are aware of any Significant Interest as set out in Rule G.2 and G.3 will be required to notify the League by
31 July 2015.
G.4.
A notice given pursuant to the provisions of Rule G.1, G.2 and G.3 shall:
G.4.1. identify the Person holding, acquiring or ceasing to hold the Significant Interest in
question; and
G.4.2. set out all relevant details of the Significant Interest including without limitation
the number of Shares, their description and the nature of the interest; and
G.4.3. set out where appropriate the proportion (expressed in percentage terms) which
the relevant Shares in respect of which the Significant Interest exists bear to the
total number of Shares of that class in issue and of the total issued Shares.
G.5.
Each Club shall publish the identities of the ultimate owner of each Significant Interest in the
Club.
G.6.
The Secretary shall maintain a register which shall include the particulars set out in Rule G.4
and the said register shall be available for inspection by any Club by prior appointment.
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SECTION G: DISCLOSURE OF OWNERSHIP
Each Club shall forthwith give notice in writing to the Secretary if any Person identified in a
notice given in accordance with Rule G.1.1 or Rule G.1.2 either directly or indirectly holds
acquires or ceases to hold any Holding in the Club.
G.8.
The Board shall have power to suspend a Club if either directly or indirectly a Person acquires
a Significant Interest in that Club while such Person either directly or indirectly holds any
Holding in any class of Shares of another Club.
G.9.
At the discretion of the Board, a suspension may take effect forthwith or it may be postponed
subject to such conditions as the Board may think fit to impose.
G.10.
Unless a suspension is postponed, a suspended Club shall not play in:
G.10.1.
any League Match; or
G.10.2. any matches organised as part of the Games Programmes or matches in the
Professional Development Leagues (as those terms are defined in the Youth
Development Rules); or
G.10.3.
any of the competitions set out in Rules L.9 and L.10; or
G.10.4.
any other match.
G.11.
For the purposes of the League competition, the Board shall have power to determine how
the cancellation of a League Match caused by the suspension of one of the Clubs which
should have participated in it shall be treated.
G.12.
The Board shall have power to remove a Clubs suspension imposed under Rule G.8 upon
being satisfied that the circumstances giving rise to it are no longer extant.
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A
G.7.
CLUBS: FINANCE AND GOVERNANCE
SECTION H: DIRECTORS REPORTS
Material Transactions
PREMIER LEAGUE RULES: SECTION A
H
H.1.
For the purposes of these Rules Material Transactions shall comprise any payment or
financial obligation (or any series of connected payments or financial obligations relating to
the same transaction) made or undertaken by or to or in favour of a Club and recorded in its
accounting and administration records which is (or are) in respect of any of the following:
H.1.1.
Compensation Fees, Contingent Sums or Loan Fees; or
H.1.2. remuneration of Players (including, for this purpose, any benefits they are entitled
to receive); or
H.1.3.
payments to or for the benefit of Agents; or
H.1.4.
Third Party Payments;
and remuneration of and payments to or for the benefit of Players or Agents shall in each
case include payments made by or on behalf of a Club to or for the benefit of a Player or
Agent (as the case may be) including, for this purpose, to any company or trust in which the
Player or Agent (as the case may be) has an interest.
Record of Material Transactions
H.2.
Brief particulars of each Material Transaction sufficient to identify its date(s), its amount(s)
and the nature of it shall be recorded by a Club and the record shall be made available on
demand to its Directors, its Auditors and the League.
H.3.
Directors of a Club (including non-executive Directors) shall take such steps as are reasonably
necessary to satisfy themselves that their Clubs record of Material Transactions is complete
and correct.
Transfer Policy
H.4.
Each Club shall formally adopt, and make available to the League at its request, a written
transfer policy identifying who on its behalf has authority to negotiate and approve Material
Transactions.
H.5.
Each Club shall ensure that all its Material Transactions are:
H.5.1.
negotiated and approved in accordance with its written transfer policy; and
H.5.2. documented and recorded as required by relevant provisions of these Rules and
the Football Association Rules.
H.6.
Each Club shall, if requested to do so by the League, submit to the League Form 7 signed and
dated by each of the Directors of the Club.
H.7.
Any Director who for any reason is unwilling to sign Form 7 shall note the Form 7 to that
effect, giving full reasons.
H.8.
Any Director signing a Form 7 who knows or ought reasonably to know that it or any part of
it is false or misleading in any way and any Director noting a Form 7 knowing that such note
or the reasons given by him are false or misleading in any way will in either case act in breach
of these Rules and will be liable to be dealt with in accordance with the provisions of Section
W of these Rules (Disciplinary).
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SECTION H: DIRECTORS REPORTS
H.9.
Managers, Players and Officials shall cooperate fully with the Directors of their Club in the
preparation for Form 7.
PREMIER LEAGUE RULES: SECTION A
H
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CLUBS: FINANCE AND GOVERNANCE
SECTION I: ASSOCIATIONS AND INFLUENCE
Associations between Clubs
I.1.
A Club shall not either directly or indirectly:
I.1.1.
apply to hold or hold any Holding in another Club or Football League club; or
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I.1.2. issue any of its Shares or grant any Holding to another Club or Football League club;
or
I.1.3. lend money to or guarantee the debts or obligations of another Club or Football
League club; or
I.1.4. borrow money from another Club or Football League club or permit another Club
or Football League club to guarantee its debts or obligations; or
I.1.5. be involved in or have any power to determine or influence the management or
administration of another Club or Football League club; or
I.1.6. permit any other Club or Football League club to be involved in or have any power
to determine or influence its management or administration.
Club Officials
I.2.
An Official of a Club shall not:
I.2.1.
be an Official of another Club or Football League club; or
I.2.2. either directly or indirectly be involved in or have any power to determine or
influence the management or administration of another Club or Football League
club.
I.3.
A Club shall not appoint as an Official anybody who:
I.3.1.
is an Official of another Club or Football League club; or
I.3.2. either directly or indirectly is involved in or has any power to determine or
influence the management or administration of another Club or Football League
club.
Dual Interests
I.4.
No Person may either directly or indirectly be involved in or have any power to determine or
influence the management or administration of more than one Club.
I.5.
No Person may either directly or indirectly hold or acquire any Significant Interest in a Club
while such Person either directly or indirectly holds any Holding in another Club.
I.6.
A Club shall not either directly or indirectly issue Shares of any description or grant any
Holding to any Person that either directly or indirectly already holds a Significant Interest in
another Club.
Club Contracts
I.7.
126
No Club shall enter into a contract which enables any other party to that contract to acquire
the ability materially to influence its policies or the performance of its teams in League
Matches, any matches in the Professional Development Phase Games Programme or the
Professional Development Leagues (as those terms are defined in the Youth Development
Rules) or in any of the competitions set out in Rule L.9.
SECTION I: ASSOCIATIONS AND INFLUENCE
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CLUBS: FINANCE AND GOVERNANCE
SECTION J: MISCELLANEOUS
Employment of Officials
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J.1.
Each Club shall employ and provide written terms of reference to:
J.1.1. an Official who shall be responsible for running the daily business of the Club with
the support of a sufficient number of administrative staff in suitable and
appropriately equipped offices, who can be contacted during normal office hours.
J.1.2. an Official who holds a nationally recognised qualification as an accountant or
auditor, or who has sufficient experience to demonstrate his competence as such,
who shall be responsible for the Clubs finances; and
J.1.3. a press or media officer who holds a nationally recognised qualification in
journalism or who has sufficient experience to demonstrate his competence as a
press or media officer.
J.2.
Each Club shall bind each of its Officials:
J.2.1. to comply with these Rules during the period of their appointment or employment
and in the case of Rule B.18 at all times thereafter; and
J.2.2. to seek its permission before contributing to the press, television or radio.
J.3.
Save as otherwise permitted by these Rules, no Club shall directly or indirectly induce or
attempt to induce any Player, Manager, assistant manager, head coach or other senior first
team football coach of another Club (or Football League club) to terminate a contract of
employment with that other Club (or Football League club) (whether or not by breach of that
contract) or directly or indirectly approach any such employee with a view to offering
employment without the consent of that other Club (or Football League club).
J.4.
Each Club shall adopt and each Club, Manager, Official, Player and Academy Player shall
observe, comply with and act in accordance with the Inclusion and Anti-Discrimination
Policy set out in Appendix 2 to these Rules.
Betting
J.5.
Prior to entering into (or performing any aspect of) a Gambling Related Agreement, the Club
shall procure that the other party (or parties) to the Gambling Related Agreement shall enter
into an agreement with the League pursuant to which it shall agree with the League in the
terms set out in Rules J.5.1 to J.5.2:
J.5.1. it will provide accurate and complete information forthwith to the League in the
event that the League is exercising its powers to enquire into any suspected or
alleged breach of these Rules; and
J.5.2. it will not permit any form of gambling on any game referred to in Youth
Development Rules 1.12(b)(ii), 1.12(b)(iii), and 1.12(c) to (e) or on any match
including a Club in the UEFA Youth League;
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SECTION J: MISCELLANEOUS
J.6.
No Club, Official or Player may, in connection with betting on an event in, or on the result of,
a League Match or a match in a competition which forms part of the Games Programmes or
Professional Development Leagues (as those terms are defined in the Youth Development
Rules):
J.6.2. receive or seek to receive any payment or other form of inducement from any Person.
UEFA Club Licence Applicants
J.7.
Any Club, Authorised Signatory or other Official making a false statement (whether made
verbally or in writing) in or in connection with an application for a UEFA Club Licence or
falsifying a document produced in support of or in connection with such an application shall
be in breach of these Rules and shall be liable to be dealt with in accordance with the
provisions of Section W of these Rules (Disciplinary).
Football Foundation
J.8.
Each Club must make available one half page of advertising or editorial material in match
programmes for the benefit of The Football Foundation.
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J.6.1. offer or receive a payment or any form of inducement to or from any Club or the
Official or Player of any Club; or
CLUBS: OPERATIONS
SECTION K: STADIUM CRITERIA AND BROADCASTERS REQUIREMENTS
PREMIER LEAGUE RULES: SECTION K
Safety Certificate
K.1.
Subject to Rule K.2, each Club shall hold a current safety certificate issued in accordance with
the provisions of the Safety of Sports Grounds Act 1975.
K.2.
If a Club has a ground-sharing agreement it shall be a term thereof that either the Club or the
other party to the agreement shall hold a current safety certificate.
Ownership of Ground and Training Facilities
K.3.
Each Club shall either own its Stadium and training facilities or have a legally enforceable
agreement with its owner for its use by the Club, expiring not earlier than the end of the
current Season.
Ground Sharing
K.4.
No Club shall have or enter into a ground-sharing agreement unless the agreement contains
a legally enforceable provision to the effect that the playing of the Clubs League Matches
shall always take precedence over the activities of the other party to the agreement.
Ground Registration
K.5.
Each Club shall register its Stadium with the Secretary and no Club shall remove to another
Stadium without first obtaining the written consent of the Board, such consent not to be
unreasonably withheld.
K.6.
In considering whether to give any such consent, the Board shall have regard to all the
circumstances of the case (including but not limited to the factors set out in this Rule K.6)
and shall not consent unless reasonably satisfied that such consent:
K.6.1.
would be consistent with the objects of the League as set out in the Memorandum;
K.6.2. would be appropriate having in mind the relationship (if any) between the locality
with which by its name or otherwise the applicant Club is traditionally associated
and that in which such Club proposes to establish its Stadium;
K.6.3. would not to any material extent adversely affect such Clubs Officials, Players,
supporters, shareholders, sponsors and others having an interest in its activities;
K.6.4.
would not have a material adverse effect on Visiting Clubs;
K.6.5. would not to any material extent adversely affect Clubs (or Football League clubs)
having their registered grounds in the immediate vicinity of the proposed location;
and
K.6.6. would enhance the reputation of the League and promote the game of association
football generally.
All Seater Grounds
K.7.
130
Spectators admitted to a Stadium shall be offered only seated accommodation, the majority
of which shall be covered, and there shall be no standing terraces.
SECTION K: STADIUM CRITERIA AND BROADCASTERS REQUIREMENTS
Ground Regulations
K.8.
Covered Stadia
K.9.
Any Club applying for planning permission to cover or partially cover the playing area of its
stadium with a fixed or moveable roof shall provide to the Board a copy of its application
together with copies of all submitted plans.
K.10.
No League Match shall take place at any stadium where during the playing of the League
Match the playing area is covered or partially covered by a fixed or moveable roof without
the prior written approval of the Board. Before giving or refusing to give any such approval
the Board shall consult with all Clubs and shall take into account their representations.
Dressing Rooms
K.11.
Each Club shall provide dressing rooms for Players the minimum area of which (excluding
showers, baths and toilets) shall be 30 square metres.
Drug-testing Room
K.12.
Each Club shall provide accommodation capable of being used as a drug-testing room which
shall be near the Players and Match Officials dressing rooms and inaccessible to the public
and media. The Board may caution any Club which fails to comply with this Rule or exercise
its summary jurisdiction and impose a fine.
Security
K.13.
In order to safeguard the Players, directors and Officials of a Visiting Club and Match Officials
upon their arrival at and departure from a League Match, each Home Club shall procure that:
K.13.1.
the Visiting Clubs team coach is able to park adjacent to the Players entrance;
K.13.2. barriers are placed so as to prevent members of the public gaining access to the
area between the team coach and the Players entrance;
K.13.3. a parking area is provided for directors and Officials of the Visiting Club and Match
Officials close to their respective points of entry to the stadium;
K.13.4. the Players entrance as well as the parking area and the points of entry referred to
are adequately policed or stewarded.
K.13.5. access to the Match Officials dressing room is controlled in compliance with
guidance as issued by PGMOL and approved by the Board.
K.14.
Each Home Club shall further procure that Players and Match Officials are provided with
a safe and secure means of access to and egress from the pitch prior to the kick-off of a
League Match, at the beginning and end of the half-time interval and upon the conclusion
of the match.
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PREMIER LEAGUE RULES: SECTION K
Each Club shall ensure that sufficient copies of the official notice entitled Ground
Regulations published by the League and the Football League are displayed prominently at
its Stadium.
SECTION K: STADIUM CRITERIA AND BROADCASTERS REQUIREMENTS
PREMIER LEAGUE RULES: SECTION K
The Pitch
K.15.
Unless otherwise permitted by the Board, in League Matches the length of the pitch shall be
105 metres and its breadth 68 metres.
K.16.
The Board shall only give permission to a Club for the dimensions of its pitch to be other than
as set out in Rule K.15 if it is impossible for it to comply with Rule K.15 due to the nature of the
construction of its Stadium.
K.17.
For UEFA Club Competitions the pitch must measure 105 metres in length by 68 metres in
breadth exactly. If for technical reasons of a construction related nature it is impossible to
achieve the required dimensions a UEFA Club Licence may nevertheless be granted provided
that the pitch is minimum 100 metres to maximum 105 metres in length by minimum 64
metres to maximum 68 metres in breadth.
K.18.
A Club shall register the dimensions of its pitch before the commencement of each Season
by giving written notice thereof in Form 8 to the Secretary.
K.19.
The Board may at any time require a Club to obtain and submit to the Secretary a report by
an independent expert certifying its pitch dimensions.
K.20.
No Club shall alter the dimensions of its pitch during the Season without the prior written
consent of the Board.
K.21.
The height of the pitch grass shall not exceed 30mm and the entire playing surface must be
cut to the same height.
K.22.
Each Club shall take all reasonable steps to maintain its pitch in good condition throughout
the Season and the Board may require a Club to take such steps as the Board shall specify if
it is not satisfied that the pitch is being maintained to an adequate standard.
K.23.
Each Club shall provide and maintain at its Stadium an undersoil heating system which shall
be operated to the extent necessary to procure, so far as is reasonably possible, that the pitch
is playable on the occasion of each home League Match.
Pitch Protection
K.24.
In order to protect the pitch, unless otherwise mutually agreed between both participating
Clubs, the following procedures shall be adopted by Players and Officials in the periods
immediately before and after a League Match and at half time:
K.24.1. the pitch shall only be used for warming up or warming down by Players named
on Form 9 plus an additional goalkeeper;
K.24.2. pre-match warming up by either team shall not commence until 45 minutes
before the kick-off time at the earliest, shall not last for more than 30 minutes,
and shall end no later than 10 minutes before the kick-off time;
K.24.3. if portable goals are provided they shall be used for all goalkeeping drills other
than crossing practice;
K.24.4. the goalmouth area shall be used by goalkeepers only if portable goals are not
provided or for crossing practice and then only for not more than 20 minutes;
132
SECTION K: STADIUM CRITERIA AND BROADCASTERS REQUIREMENTS
K.24.5. for the purposes of warming up and warming down each team shall use only part
of the pitch between the edge of a penalty area and the half way line or as
otherwise directed by the groundsman;
K.24.7. Players using the pitch at half time shall give due consideration to any other
activity or entertainment taking place on the pitch at the same time;
K.24.8. the Home Club may water the pitch at half time provided that it gives reasonable
notice to the referee and the other Club that it intends to do so and that any such
watering is carried out evenly over the entire length and width of the pitch; and
K.24.9. any warming down after the conclusion of the League Match shall last for no
longer than 15 minutes and for that purpose neither penalty area shall be used.
Artificial Surfaces
K.25.
No League Match shall be played on an Artificial Surface.
Goal Line Technology
K.26.
Each Clubs Stadium must have installed such Goal Line Technology as the Board shall
specify from time to time.
K.27.
Each Club shall:
K.27.1. ensure that the Goal Line Technology installed at its Stadium properly maintained
in accordance with all applicable requirements insofar as such maintenance is the
responsibility of the Club and not the responsibility of any Person appointed by
the League pursuant to Rule K.27.2;
K.27.2. give all necessary cooperation to such Person or Persons appointed by the League
to supply, install, maintain and operate such Goal Line Technology and to any
person properly authorised by the League or FIFA to test or certify the Clubs Goal
Line Technology; and
K.27.3.
K.28.
use Goal Line Technology only as specified by the Board from time to time.
For the avoidance of doubt, ownership of the Goal Line Technology installed and operated at each
Club, and of all rights arising therefrom or in connection therewith, shall not belong to the Club.
Trainers Bench Facilities
K.29.
Each Club shall provide separate trainers benches adjacent to the pitch for the sole use of
team officials, medical staff and substitute Players of each of the Home Club and the Visiting
Club. Such trainers benches shall be clearly marked Home and Away, shall have direct
access onto the pitch, shall be located equidistant from the halfway line, shall be under cover
and shall each be capable of seating not less than 14 persons.
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PREMIER LEAGUE RULES: SECTION K
K.24.6. all speed and stamina work shall be undertaken off the pitch parallel to the
touchline opposite the side to be patrolled by the assistant referee or, in the
absence of sufficient space, in that part of the pitch described in Rule K.24.5 above
or as otherwise directed by the groundsman;
SECTION K: STADIUM CRITERIA AND BROADCASTERS REQUIREMENTS
K.30.
The Staff and Players occupying the trainers benches shall display throughout the game
such identification as is required and provided by the Premier League.
PREMIER LEAGUE RULES: SECTION K
Technical Areas
K.31.
The technical areas shall include the trainers benches required by Rule K.29 and shall extend
1 metre either side of each and to within 1 metre of the touchline.
K.32.
The boundaries of each of the technical areas shall be clearly marked.
K.33.
No person shall use or have access to a television monitor or like device in or around the
technical areas during League Matches.
Sanitary Facilities
K.34.
Each Club shall provide sufficient bright, clean and hygienic toilet and washing facilities for
male and female spectators in accordance with any local authority requirements and
having regard to guidance issued by the Football Licensing Authority. The Board may
caution any Club which fails to comply with this Rule or exercise its summary jurisdiction
and impose a fine.
Facilities for the Disabled
K.35.
Each Club shall provide sufficient and adequate facilities for disabled supporters.
CCTV
K.36.
A Home Club may arrange for any League Match in which its team participates to be relayed by
closed circuit television to other locations within its Stadium.
K.37.
Except at any time when any live Transmission of any League Match pursuant to a UK
Broadcasting Contract is in progress, a Visiting Club may arrange by agreement with the
Home Club for the closed circuit television signal of a League Match in which it participates
to be relayed to its Stadium only. The written consent of the Board shall be required to relay
the said signal to any other location. In all such circumstances, the Visiting Club shall ensure
that any such relay of any such signal shall be encrypted in such manner as the Board may
from time to time direct.
Giant Screens
K.38.
Except with the prior written consent of the Board, giant screens or the like at a Clubs Stadium
shall not be used to relay to spectators closed circuit pictures of the League Match at which they
are present.
K.39
Any consent given under the provisions of the above Rule shall be subject to the following
conditions:
K.39.1. the screen shall be located so that it does not interfere with the League Match at
which it is used or distract the Players and Match Officials;
K.39.2. it shall be operated by a responsible person who is fully aware of the conditions
governing its use;
134
SECTION K: STADIUM CRITERIA AND BROADCASTERS REQUIREMENTS
K.39.3.
the screen may be used to show:
K.39.3.1. live action;
K.39.3.2. when the ball is not in play, action replays of positive incidents;
the screen shall not be used to show:
K.39.4.1.
action replays of negative or controversial incidents;
K.39.4.2. any incident which may bring into question the judgment of a Match
Official;
K.39.4.3. the area of the trainers bench;
K.39.4.4. until substitute boards have been displayed, pictures of any substitute
Player warming up or preparing to enter the field of play;
K.39.4.5. any pictures which may tend to criticise, disparage, belittle or discredit
the League, any Club or any Official, Player or Match Official or to bring
the game into disrepute.
Media Facilities General
K.40.
Each Club shall provide to the League such information and access to its Stadium as the
League may reasonably require in order to assess whether the Club complies, or will in due
course comply, with the requirements of Rules K.45 to K.125.
Guidance
Assessment of compliance will be undertaken via self-assessment, inspections by the League or its appointees, and, if
there is disagreement as to whether a Club complies with a particular requirement, by an independent audit.
K.41.
Where a Club proves to the League that compliance with one or more of the requirements of
Rules K.45 to K.125 is not reasonably practicable, despite its best endeavours, due to the
nature of the construction and configuration of its Stadium, the League shall suspend action
for breach of such Rules for such period of time and subject to such further order as the
League considers appropriate.
Guidance
If the existing nature of a Clubs Stadium is such that it necessitates a longer lead time to put in place a facility required
by these Rules, then it may apply to the Board for temporary dispensation from the relevant Rule. In extreme cases, it is
recognised that it may be physically impossible to comply with a particular requirement. In such a case, the Board may
waive compliance without the Club attracting sanction pursuant to Rule K.43 subject to whatever further action the
Board considers appropriate to comply as much as reasonably practicable with the intent of the Rules.
Any application for dispensation from any of the requirements in Rules K.45 to K.125 will be judged on its own facts.
K.42.
The details of how each Club will, subject to Rule K.43, comply with Rules K.45 to K.125 shall
be recorded in its Technical Specification.
135
PREMIER LEAGUE RULES: SECTION K
K.39.4.
SECTION K: STADIUM CRITERIA AND BROADCASTERS REQUIREMENTS
PREMIER LEAGUE RULES: SECTION K
K.43.
If a Club fails to comply with any of Rules K.45 to K.125, the Board may:
K.43.1. withhold from that Club part or all of its share of Overseas Broadcasting Money
to which it would otherwise be entitled pursuant to Rule D.20 until such time as it
has provided those facilities; and/or
K.43.2. require the Club to undertake such works as the Board considers necessary by
such date as the Board may specify; and
K.43.3. in the event of any continuing breach or failure to implement works as required by
the Board pursuant to Rule K.43.2 deal with the matter under the provisions of
Section W of these Rules.
K.44.
The League will inform each Club no later than 14 days before the date of each League Match
to be played at its Stadium of the Match Manager appointed to act at that League Match and
whether, and if so to what extent, the Club is required to comply with the following Rules:
K.44.1.
Rules K.56 and K.57 (Overseas TV Commentary Positions);
K.44.2.
Rule K.66 (Television Studios);
K.44.3.
Rule K.67 (seats for Overseas Broadcasters); and
K.44.4.
Rule K.78 (car park spaces for the use of Broadcasters).
K.45.
Access to the facilities, areas and rooms described in this Section of the Rules shall, on the
date of each League Match, be restricted to such personnel as are accredited by the League
or Home Club and each Home Club shall ensure that such facilities, areas and rooms are
stewarded in such a manner as to enforce this restriction.
K.46.
Each Club shall ensure that for each League Match played at its Stadium, the Stadium is
supplied with internet connectivity with a total bandwidth capacity of 40 megabits per
second, burstable to 100 megabits per second.
K.47.
Each Club shall ensure that, within the total internet connectivity referred to in Rule K.46:
K.47.1. 3 private and uncontended internet connections, with a total bandwidth capacity
of 15 megabits per second to be divided between the 3 connections as the League
shall specify, are available for the use of the Leagues data providers and player
tracking service providers; and
K.47.2. internet connections are provided to the locations and in the manner specified in
Rule K.48.
136
SECTION K: STADIUM CRITERIA AND BROADCASTERS REQUIREMENTS
K.48.
Each Home Club shall provide connections to the internet, and permit the installation and
maintenance by the League or Radio Broadcasters (in either case at their expense) of ISDN
lines, at the following locations of its Stadium:
Wireless Internet
Connectivity*
ISDN
Each UK TV Commentary
Position (Rules K.54 to K.55)
Yes
Yes
Yes
Each Overseas TV
Commentary Position
(Rules K.56 to K.57)
Yes
Yes
Yes
Each Press Seat
(Rules K.87 to K.88)
Yes
Yes
Not required
Media Working Area
(Rules K.84 to K.85)
Yes
Yes
Not required
Media Conference Room
(Rule K.86)
Yes
Yes
Not required
Photographers Working Area
(Rule K.89.4)
Yes: 16
connection points
Yes
Not required
Radio Commentary Positions
(Rule K.58)
Yes
Yes
Yes
Tunnel Interview Position
(Pre-Match and Post-Match)
(Rules K.60 to K.61).
Not required
Yes
Not required
Television Studios
(Rule K.66)
Yes
Yes
Not required
Outside Broadcast Compound
(Rules K.79 to K.81)
Yes
Yes
Not required
Not required
Yes
Not required
Pitchside Presentation
Positions (Rule K.59)
PREMIER LEAGUE RULES: SECTION K
Wired Internet
Connectivity
*Wireless internet connectivity must be on a closed and secure network.
K.49.
Each Club shall give the Match Manager all such assistance, and access to such facilities, areas
and rooms, as may be reasonably required.
K.50.
Each Home Club shall:
K.50.1. provide for the use of the League in relation to this Section K a network access
facility within its Outside Broadcast Compound and provide such rights and
access as is needed for its installation and maintendance; and
K.50.2. ensure that for at least 3 hours before kick-off and 2 hours after final whistle, an
appropriately competent Official is available to ensure as far as reasonably
practicable uninterrupted use of the services set out at Rules K.46 to K.48.
137
SECTION K: STADIUM CRITERIA AND BROADCASTERS REQUIREMENTS
Television Gantry
PREMIER LEAGUE RULES: SECTION A
K
K.51.
Subject to Rule K.53, each Club shall ensure that its Stadium has a television gantry which:
K.51.1.
is situated so that cameras can be positioned on the half-way line;
K.51.2.
is at least 19 metres wide;
K.51.3. is able to accommodate at least 3 UK TV Commentary Positions and 5 cameras,
allowing at least 2 metres by 2 metres per camera;
K.51.4.
permits the cameras to have a full and clear view of the whole pitch; and
K.51.5. permits each camera position and UK Commentary Position to be easily accessible
by technical personnel during the match without disturbing the cameramen or
commentators.
K.52.
Each UK TV Commentary Position and each camera position on the Television Gantry shall
be Hardwired.
K.53.
A Club may fulfil the requirements set out in Rule K.51 across two gantries in close proximity
to each other provided that:
K.53.1. one is at least 12 metres wide and able to accommodate at least 2 UK Commentary
Positions and 3 cameras (allowing at least 2 metres by 2 metres per camera), and
Rule K.51.1 shall apply to this gantry; and
K.53.2. the other is at least 7 metres wide and able to accommodate at least 1 UK
Commentary Position and 2 cameras (allowing at least 2 metres by 2 metres per
camera).
UK TV Commentary Positions
K.54.
Subject to Rule K.44, each Club shall provide at each League Match played at its Stadium at
least 3 UK TV Commentary Positions on the Television Gantry, for use by UK Broadcasters
commentators.
K.55.
Each UK TV Commentary Position shall:
K.55.1.
consist of 3 seats;
K.55.2.
be no less than 3 metres wide and 1 metre deep;
K.55.3.
have internet connectivity as set out in Rule K.48 and mains power;
K.55.4.
have a full and clear view of the pitch; and
K.55.5. have a desk large enough to hold a monitor, 2 laptops and such commentary
equipment as UK Broadcasters may reasonably require.
Guidance
A Club will not be penalised for a failure to provide a full and clear view under these Rules if the permanent infrastructure
of its Stadium is such that this is not possible (for example due to the presence of stanchions supporting the roof of a
stand). However, there must be no temporary or movable installations restricting the view.
138
SECTION K: STADIUM CRITERIA AND BROADCASTERS REQUIREMENTS
Overseas TV Commentary Positions
K.56.
Subject to Rule K.44, each Club shall provide at each League Match played at its Stadium:
K.56.2. at least 1 additional seat per 3 Overseas TV Commentary Positions for the use of
Overseas Broadcasters technical staff.
Guidance
The mini-cameras referred to in Rule K.56.1 will be used to film commentators and not match footage.
K.57.
Each Overseas TV Commentary Position shall:
K.57.1.
be situated as close to the half-way line as reasonably practicable;
K.57.2.
consist of 2 seats for the use of commentators;
K.57.3.
be at least 2 metres wide and 1 metre deep;
K.57.4.
be Hardwired;
K.57.5.
have internet connectivity as set out in Rule K.48 and mains power;
K.57.6.
have a full and clear view of the pitch; and
K.57.7. have a desk large enough to hold a monitor, two laptops and such commentary
equipment as Overseas Broadcasters may reasonably require.
Guidance
Where the Rules specify that different Persons are entitled to be placed as near to the half-way line as reasonably
practicable, the Match Manager shall allocate actual positions.
Radio Commentary Positions
K.58.
Each Club shall provide at each League Match played at its Stadium at least 15 Radio
Commentary Positions for use by Radio Broadcasters and (subject to the priority over such
seats of the Radio Broadcasters) by any radio broadcasters with whom the Home Club or the
Visiting Club has entered into a Club Radio Contract, and each such Position shall:
K.58.1. be situated as close to the half-way line as reasonably practicable and in any event
no further than 25m from it;
K.58.2.
have a clear view of a television monitor; and
K.58.3. have mains power and a desk large enough to hold such commentary equipment
as Radio Broadcasters may reasonably require.
139
PREMIER LEAGUE RULES: SECTION A
K
K.56.1. at least 15 Overseas TV Commentary Positions (which need not be on the
Television Gantry, provided that they are situated on the same side of the pitch as
the Television Gantry and are sufficiently Hardwired for the receipt of the
Broadcasters feeds to monitors), of which 5 must have capacity for video and audio
to be transmitted via a mini-camera to the Outside Broadcast Compound; and
SECTION K: STADIUM CRITERIA AND BROADCASTERS REQUIREMENTS
TV Broadcasters Pitchside Presentation Positions
PREMIER LEAGUE RULES: SECTION A
K
K.59.
Each Club shall provide at each League Match played at its Stadium at least 7 pitchside
presentation positions (2 for UK Broadcasters and 5 for Overseas Broadcasters), each of
which shall be:
K.59.1. Hardwired;
K.59.2.
as close to the touchline as reasonably practicable;
K.59.3.
at least 3 metres wide; and
K.59.4. available from at least 4 hours before kick-off until 5 minutes before kick-off,
during half-time until at least 5 minutes before the re-start, and for at least 45
minutes after the final whistle.
Tunnel Interview Positions
K.60.
Each Club shall provide at each League Match played at its Stadium at least 5 Hardwired
tunnel interview positions, 2 of which shall be for the use of UK Broadcasters, and 3 of which
shall be for the use of Overseas Broadcasters.
K.61.
The tunnel interview positions shall be located:
K.61.1. in the same stand as, and in close proximity to, the tunnel and the Players
dressing rooms;
K.61.2. so that television interviews within them can be conducted against the Interview
Backdrops; and
K.61.3.
so that each may be used without interfering with the use of the others.
Camera Positions: Match Coverage
K.62.
Each Club shall provide at each League Match played at its Stadium positions for television
cameras in accordance with the requirements of Appendix 3, and each such position shall be
Hardwired.
K.63.
Each Club shall:
K.63.1. provide such pods and hoists as are necessary in order to ensure that all camera
equipment can be installed in the required camera positions; and
K.63.2. ensure there is safe access to and egress from (including in case of emergency) the
required camera positions for all persons and equipment.
Guidance
A pod is a pair of scaffolding tubes fixed (at an equal distance apart) to the front of the camera position to support a
camera mount. A hoist is a rope and pulley system for lifting equipment from floor level to working height. When fitting
pods, Clubs should consult the League who will offer guidance on the dimensions required.
Camera Positions: Team and Supporter Arrivals
K.64.
Each Club shall provide at its Stadium at least 2 separate and static Hardwired camera
positions for the arrivals of the teams before each League Match.
K.65.
Each Club shall permit TV Broadcasters coverage of supporters outside its Stadium before
each League Match.
140
SECTION K: STADIUM CRITERIA AND BROADCASTERS REQUIREMENTS
Television Studios
K.66.
Subject to Rule K.44, each Club shall provide at each League Match played at its Stadium at
least 2 studios for the use of Broadcasters and each such studio shall:
measure at least 5 metres by 5 metres;
K.66.2.
be at least 3 metres high;
K.66.3. have a window which is at least 3 metres wide (or, if constructed after 1 August
2014, 4.5 metres wide) by 1.5 metres high and which gives a full and clear view of
the pitch;
K.66.4.
be Hardwired sufficiently for the operation of 4 cameras, ancillary audio
equipment, and to receive audio-visual feeds from the Outside Broadcast
Compound to monitors within the studio; and
K.66.5.
have provision for cable access in the event of the failure of the Hardwiring.
Guidance
With regard to the studio window, ideally the bottom of the window should be 50cm from the floor and the top of the
window should be 2 metres from the floor.
Overseas Broadcasters: Observer Seats
K.67.
Subject to Rule K.44, each Club shall make available at each League Match played at its
Stadium at least 25 seats for the use of accredited representatives of Overseas Broadcasters,
to be situated in close proximity, and with easy access, to the tunnel area and Mixed Zone.
Guidance
These seats will be for the use of working personnel of Overseas Broadcasters. The tickets for these seats will be
distributed by the League who will also monitor their use.
Reporter Positions
K.68.
Each Club shall provide at least 8 seats (the positions of which shall be Hardwired) at each
League Match played at its Stadium for the use of accredited representatives of UK
Broadcasters, Overseas Broadcasters and the League.
K.69.
Such seats shall be situated as near to the trainers benches as practicable.
Guidance
It is envisaged that Broadcasters may use some of these seats for technical equipment.
With regard to Rule K.68, the League in this context means Premier League Productions, the Leagues appointed
production partner which undertakes the broadcast of all League Matches on behalf of the League.
Mixed Zone
K.70.
Each Club shall provide at each League Match played at its Stadium a Mixed Zone in which
media interviews with Players and Managers may be conducted.
141
PREMIER LEAGUE RULES: SECTION A
K
K.66.1.
SECTION K: STADIUM CRITERIA AND BROADCASTERS REQUIREMENTS
K.71.
The Mixed Zone shall:
PREMIER LEAGUE RULES: SECTION A
K
K.71.1. be located between the Players dressing rooms and the Players point of exit from
the Stadium;
K.71.2. be accessible to Players, Managers, coaching staff and accredited representatives
of Broadcasters;
K.71.3.
be large enough to accommodate at least 20 representatives of Broadcasters;
K.71.4. have sufficient infrastructure (whether by Hardwiring or cable) to enable the
Transmission of interviews; and
K.71.5. have lighting of a sufficient level to provide suitable conditions for the Transmission
of interviews.
K.72.
Each Home Club:
K.72.1.
shall permit into the Mixed Zone:
K.72.1.1.
accredited representatives of Broadcasters who wish to conduct
interviews in the Mixed Zone (up to a maximum of 20), who shall have
priority entry into the Mixed Zone over those listed in Rules K.72.1.2
and K.72.1.3;
K.72.1.2. accredited representatives of radio broadcasters with whom it or the
Visiting Club has entered into a Club Radio Contract;
K.72.1.3. such authorised representatives of it or the Visiting Club as either may
reasonably require in order to provide commentary or reports on
media services such as its website, social media accounts or television
channel; and
K.72.2.
may, at its discretion, permit into the Mixed Zone such other accredited
representatives of the media as it considers appropriate.
Guidance
Further discussions will be undertaken with Clubs about the branding of the Mixed Zone. The Leagues preference is that
Interview Backdrops should be used in Mixed Zones.
Accreditation of representatives of the media will be undertaken by the League or its appointee (currently Football
DataCo Limited) on behalf of the League and Clubs.
Access to Tunnel Interview Positions
K.73.
Each Club shall at each League Match played at its Stadium permit the following accredited
representatives of TV Broadcasters access to the tunnel interview positions referred to in
Rule K.60 to K.61 for such purposes and periods as the League may from time to time specify:
K.73.1.
142
6 reporters;
K.73.2.
5 floor managers;
K.73.3.
5 sound engineers;
K.73.4.
6 camera operators;
K.73.5.
2 lighting engineers;
K.73.6.
2 vision engineers;
SECTION K: STADIUM CRITERIA AND BROADCASTERS REQUIREMENTS
K.73.7. w2 riggers (who may be excluded during the period from 2 hours before kick-off
until two and a half hours after the final whistle);
K.73.8.
6 commentators (for the period up to 30 minutes before kick-off only).
Guidance
TV Broadcasters representatives are only permitted access to the tunnel interview positions for the filming of interviews,
team arrivals, match reports, and to conduct unfilmed, informal discussions with coaching staff where the latter choose
to speak to Broadcasters (and for the avoidance of doubt they are not obliged to engage in such informal discussions
although they are encouraged to do so).
Hardwiring
K.74.
Each Club shall:
K.74.1. ensure that all Hardwiring at its Stadium is properly maintained and in good
working order at all times when its use is required; and
K.74.2. provide to the League a certificate in writing by 30 June confirming that the
Hardwiring at its Stadium is in compliance with Rule K.74.1, such certificate to be
provided by an independent Person experienced in the design and installation of
permanent outside broadcast cable infrastructure.
K.75.
Each Club shall permit the installation of temporary cabling by Broadcasters sufficient to
ensure the continuous Transmission of League Matches played at its Stadium in the event of
the failure of any Hardwiring required by these Rules (in addition to any other measures that
the League may specify in order to ensure such continuous Transmission).
Power Supply
K.76.
Each Home Club shall make available to Broadcasters, at their request, access to electricity
supply on the day of each League Match sufficient to power the Broadcasters operations.
K.77.
Each Home Club shall provide such facilities and access as is required by a Broadcaster to
establish its own power supply for an Outside Broadcast Compound.
Car Park Spaces
K.78.
Subject to Rule K.44, each Club shall make available to the League a minimum of 20 car park
spaces as close to the main entrance of the Stadium as reasonably practicable for each
League Match played at its Stadium for the use by TV Broadcasters.
Guidance
These car park spaces will be used by the on-screen presenters, commentators and match analysts of the Broadcasters.
As these are individuals who are publicly known and recognisable, car park spaces as close to the main entrance of the
Stadium as reasonably practicable are requested. Car park spaces that are not required by Broadcasters will be released
back to the League no later than fourteen days before the date of the League Match pursuant to Rule K.44
143
PREMIER LEAGUE RULES: SECTION A
K
The Match Manager will manage all such access to ensure that, as far as reasonably
practicable, the persons referred to in this Rule only have access to the tunnel interview
positions when needed.
SECTION K: STADIUM CRITERIA AND BROADCASTERS REQUIREMENTS
PREMIER LEAGUE RULES: SECTION A
K
Outside Broadcast Compound
K.79.
At each League Match, the Home Club shall provide a secure, level area (with a hard surface
suitable for the parking of TV Broadcasters vehicles) outside and adjacent to the Stadium of
at least 1500m2 for the exclusive use of the League and TV Broadcasters vehicles.
K.80.
The Outside Broadcast Compound shall have sufficient:
K.81.
K.80.1.
drainage; and
K.80.2.
reasonable access to toilets and waste disposal facilities.
The Outside Broadcast Compound shall have an unobstructed view of the southern horizon
such as to allow satellite uplinking or if the Outside Broadcast Compound does not have such
unobstructed view, the Club must provide an additional area as close as reasonably
practicable to the Outside Broadcast Compound to enable satellite uplinking.
Guidance
With regard to Rule K.81, if an additional area is needed because satellite uplinking is not reasonably practicable from the
Outside Broadcast Compound, then the additional area must be sufficiently large (approximately 120 square m2) to
accommodate 6 satellite news gathering trucks.
Official Club Team Sheets
K.82.
Each Home Club shall provide to the Match Manager the team sheets of both the Home Club
and the Visiting Club as soon as reasonably practicable after they have been handed to the
referee pursuant to Rule L.21.
Guidance
Rule L.21 provides that at least 75 minutes before the kick-off, a senior coach and the captain of each participating Club
must attend a briefing with the referee and hand to him and their opponents a team sheet.
The Match Manager will give copies of the team sheets to Broadcasters and to the Leagues data providers. Clubs will
remain responsible for distributing it to others (e.g. representatives of the written media).
K.83.
A Club playing in a League Match shall not publish the teams until 60 minutes before kick-off.
Guidance
Publication of team sheets is strictly embargoed until 60 minutes before kick-off. The League will ensure that
Broadcasters comply with this embargo.
Media Working Area
K.84.
Each Club shall provide at each League Match played at its Stadium a working area for the use
of accredited representatives of the media and Broadcasters, such area to be located in the
same stand as the Players dressing rooms and comprising a room of minimum 50m2 and
supplied with 25 individual or linked work stations, each of which shall have its own desk,
chair, electricity supply and internet connectivity as set out in Rule K.48.
K.85.
Refreshment facilities of a standard to be determined by the Home Club shall be made
available to accredited representatives of the media and Broadcasters for a reasonable
period before and after the League Match and during the half-time interval.
144
SECTION K: STADIUM CRITERIA AND BROADCASTERS REQUIREMENTS
Media Conference Room
K.86.
Each Club shall provide at each League Match at its Stadium a media conference room with
the following minimum facilities:
seating for 70 persons;
K.86.2.
lighting of a sufficient level for the filming and live Transmission of the conference;
K.86.3. a podium at the front of the room and in clear view of the cameras, with table and
chairs to seat 3 people;
K.86.4. a Hardwired camera platform at the rear of the room of sufficient size to
accommodate at least 2 cameras and with an unobstructed view of the podium.
Guidance
The Post-Match Media Conference (see Rules K.101 to K.104) will take place in this room.
This can be the same room as the media working area described in Rule K.84.
With regard to Rule K.86.4, ideally the camera platform should be able to accommodate up to 10 cameras.
Press Seats
K.87.
Each Club shall provide at each League Match played at its Stadium a minimum of 50 seats for
the use of accredited representatives of the media and the Leagues data providers, such seats
to be located near the media working room and so that they give a good view of the pitch.
Guidance
Accreditation of representatives of the media will be undertaken by the League or its appointee (currently Football
DataCo Limited) on behalf of the League and Clubs.
K.88.
Each such seat shall have a desktop, electricity supply, a clear view of a television monitor,
telephone point, and internet connectivity as set out in Rule K.48.
Facilities for Photographers
K.89.
Each Home Club shall provide at each League Match played at its Stadium facilities for
photographers to the following minimum standards:
K.89.1. pitch side access for 20 accredited photographers and messengers and appropriate
pitch side wiring and wireless internet connectivity;
K.89.2. bibs bearing the word Photographer on the rear, numbered consecutively, the
numbers appearing on both the front and rear of the bib;
K.89.3. bibs of a different colour bearing the word Messenger on the rear and similarly
numbered;
K.89.4. a working area or wire room of 20 square metres internet connectivity as set out
in Rule K.48, 16 power points, a television monitor, shelves to support lap top
computers and refreshment facilities.
Guidance
Accreditation of photographers will be undertaken by the League or its appointee (currently Football DataCo Limited) on
behalf of the League and Clubs.
145
PREMIER LEAGUE RULES: SECTION A
K
K.86.1.
SECTION K: STADIUM CRITERIA AND BROADCASTERS REQUIREMENTS
Broadcaster Preview Access
PREMIER LEAGUE RULES: SECTION A
K
K.90.
Unless otherwise agreed by the League, each Club shall ensure that, during the 6 days
preceding the day of each League Match, there is a continuous period of 2 hours (the
Broadcaster Preview Period) during which TV Broadcasters (including such number of
Overseas Broadcasters as the League may determine) may conduct interviews with Players
and the Manager as set out in Rules K.93 to K.95.
Guidance
The League will only require a reasonable number of Overseas Broadcasters to be granted interviews in a Broadcaster
Preview Period pursuant to Rule K.90, bearing in mind Broadcasters maximum entitlements (in terms of both numbers
of interviews and their duration) to such interviews pursuant to Rule K.95.3.
K.91.
Unless otherwise agreed by the League, each Club shall give the League or its appointee and
each UK Broadcaster at least 72 hours notice of:
K.91.1.
the date, time, and location of its Broadcaster Preview Periods; and
K.91.2. the names of the Player(s), who must be available for selection for the next
League Match, who will be available for interview during each Broadcaster Preview
Period.
K.92.
A Club may change the Player(s) notified pursuant to Rule K.91.2 if, after giving the notice
referred to in Rule K.91 but before the Broadcaster Preview Period in question, circumstances
arise such that it is reasonable for it to do so. In such a case, the Club shall give the League or
its appointee and each UK Broadcaster as much notice of the change as reasonably possible.
If the change is as a result of the original Players participation in a match (whether a League
Match or a match in another competition) played after the original notice, the further notice
shall be given by 12 noon on the next Working Day after that match.
Guidance
In the circumstances set out in Rule K.92, Clubs can change the Player(s) they have nominated to be interviewed in the
next Broadcaster Preview Period. However, Clubs must ensure that a replacement player or Players are nominated and
available for interview.
There may be circumstances where this will apply on a Wednesday, and the Club has arranged a Broadcaster Preview
Period (in respect of the following weekends League Matches) on the Thursday. In such a situation, clearly the deadline
set out in Rule K.92 may not be applicable but Clubs are asked to give as much notice as they can.
K.93.
In respect of a League Match to be broadcast live by a UK Broadcaster, both participating
Clubs shall ensure the attendance of 1 Player (at least) and the Manager for the Broadcaster
Preview Period for interview by the UK Broadcaster which has the right to broadcast the live
Transmission of the League Match.
K.94.
In respect of any League Match both participating Clubs shall ensure the attendance of 1
Player (at least) or the Manager during the Broadcaster Preview Period for interview by any
Overseas Broadcaster and the League.
K.95.
Over the course of each Season, each Club shall ensure that each Player named in the Clubs
Squad List and its Manager:
K.95.1. gives at least 3 interviews during Broadcaster Preview Periods per Season to UK
Broadcasters which have the right to broadcast the live Transmission of League
Matches; and
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SECTION K: STADIUM CRITERIA AND BROADCASTERS REQUIREMENTS
K.95.2. gives at least 1 such interview to each UK Broadcaster which has the right to
broadcast the live Transmission of League Matches; and
K.95.3. is available for a minimum of 30 minutes each during at least two Broadcaster
Preview Periods for the purposes of being interviewed by Overseas Broadcasters.
The Broadcaster Preview Period interviews can take place either at the Stadium or at the training ground (provided that it
has suitable facilities for such interviews). Clubs will determine the exact date and time of each Broadcaster Preview Period
and give the League and UK Broadcasters at least 72 hours notice of the venue, date and time and who is to attend. The
exact day on which such interviews should take place has not been specified as Clubs may have other match commitments
during the week, some of them abroad. All arrangements and monitoring of these Rules will be undertaken by the League,
and Clubs should only contact the League to agree arrangements with regard to their Broadcaster Preview Periods which
differ from those set out above. Further, the League recognises that there may be weeks in which Clubs play 2 (or indeed
in exceptional cases more than 2) League Matches e.g. over the Christmas period. The League will monitor Broadcaster
access during such times to ensure that unreasonable demands are not being placed on Clubs.
Pre-Match Media Conference
K.96.
In addition to the requirements of Rules K.90 to K.95, each Club shall ensure that its Manager
attends a media conference with Broadcasters and, at its discretion, such other accredited
representatives of the media as the Club considers appropriate, to be scheduled as follows:
Day of League Match
Day of Pre-Match Media Conference
Saturday, Sunday or
Monday
Thursday or Friday (save for exceptional circumstances, to
be managed and monitored by the League, e.g. in the case of
late return from a fixture in the UEFA Europa League).
Tuesday
Monday
Wednesday
Monday or Tuesday
Interviews - General
K.97.
If interpretation into English is required for any interview taking place pursuant to Rules K.90
to K.95 (Broadcaster Preview Access) or K.96 (Matchday Pre-Match Interviews), then it must
be provided by the Club.
Guidance
Clubs are asked to give consideration to requests from Overseas Broadcasters for matchday interviews with Players who
speak a particular language or who are of a particular nationality.
Matchday Pre-Match Interviews
K.98.
Each Club shall ensure that the following are made available for an interview with 1 TV
Broadcaster within the time periods stated:
K.98.1. one of its Players (whose identity shall be confirmed by the Club to the Match
Manager and UK Broadcaster filming the League Match at least 15 minutes before
the interview) who is to be in the starting line-up of the League Match (who will
be asked no more than 3 questions, all of which shall be related to that League
Match), such interview to take place between 45 and 120 minutes before the kickoff of the League Match; and
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Guidance
SECTION K: STADIUM CRITERIA AND BROADCASTERS REQUIREMENTS
PREMIER LEAGUE RULES: SECTION A
K
K.98.2. its Manager, such interview to take place after the team sheets have been publicly
announced and between 45 and 120 minutes before kick-off, the exact time to be
agreed with the Broadcaster and Match Manager (and to be adhered to by the
Club and Manager once so agreed).
Guidance
With regard to Rule K.98.1, it is appreciated that if the pre-match interview takes place before the announcement of the
teams, the Club Official nominating a Player to take part may not be aware of the starting line-up due to timing issues.
Clubs may accordingly prefer to ensure that such interviews take place after the announcement of the teams. The League
reserves the right to investigate a breach of this provision if the nominated Player is one who could not reasonably have
been anticipated as one who would start the League Match, and/or if a Club persistently nominates Players none of
whom go on to start the League Matches in question.
If the Manager wishes to be interviewed before the announcement of the teams, this will be acceptable provided that the
TV Broadcaster to whom the interview is to be given agrees, and provided that the Manager discloses his team selection
to the TV Broadcaster, who will keep this information strictly confidential until after the teams have been publicly
announced which, as noted in Rule K.83, will not occur until 60 minutes before kick-off.
Post-Match Interviews, Mixed Zone and Post-Match Media Conference
K.99.
Each Club shall ensure that the following are present for interviews within the times stated after
the conclusion of each League Match (for the avoidance of doubt the interviewees must remain
so available until the interviews are concluded, even if this is after the times stated below).
K.99.1. For the UK Broadcaster which has filmed the League Match: 1 interview with up to
2 Players of one of the Participating Clubs (the Club to be at the Broadcasters
election) who played a significant role in the League Match, such Players to be
present for the interview immediately as they leave the pitch after the conclusion
of the League Match and before they return to their dressing room.
K.99.2. If the UK Broadcaster which has filmed the League Match does not wish to
undertake the interview referred to in Rule K.99.1, then any other UK Broadcaster
present at the League Match shall have the right to conduct this interview, and it
if does not wish to do so then the League shall have such right.
K.99.3. For the avoidance of doubt, the maximum number of interviews required to be
conducted pursuant to Rules K.99.1 and K.99.2 is 1, and the maximum number of
Players required for this interview is 2.
K.99.4. For each UK Broadcaster who has the right to the Transmission of the League
Match (to the extent that it has not conducted an interview with Players pursuant
to Rules K.99.1 and K.99.2):
K.99.4.1 at least 2 Players who played a significant role in the League Match; and
K.99.4.2
the Manager.
Such Players and the Manager shall be present within 20 minutes of the conclusion of the
League Match for interviews with a UK Broadcaster who has broadcast the League Match live
in the UK (if any) and within 30 minutes of the conclusion of the League Match for interviews
with all other UK Broadcasters.
K.99.5. For each of the League and 3 Overseas Broadcasters: 1 Player who played a
significant role in the League Match (save that no such Player need be provided for
an interview with the League if the League has conducted an interview with a
Player pursuant to Rule K.99.2) or the Manager, such Player or the Manager to be
present for interview within 30 minutes of the conclusion of the League Match; and
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SECTION K: STADIUM CRITERIA AND BROADCASTERS REQUIREMENTS
K.99.6. For Radio Broadcasters who have the right to the Radio Transmission of that
League Match: at least 1 Player who has played a significant role in the League
Match and the Manager.
The interview referred to in Rule K.99.1 and K.99.2 is a super-flash interview. It is to be conducted with the UK Broadcaster
filming the match or, to the extent that this Broadcaster does not wish to take up its entitlement to this interview, with
another UK Broadcaster, or with Premier League Productions (as to whom see the Guidance note to Rule K.68).
UK Broadcasters who have rights to post-match interviews are those with rights to broadcast live matches, highlights and
near-live matches; the UK Broadcaster which has filmed the match has first call on the super-flash interview under Rule K.99.1.
Rule K.99.5 requires Clubs to ensure that either a Player or the Manager is available after the match for interviews with
the League and 3 Overseas Broadcasters. If there are more Overseas Broadcasters broadcasting the match, Clubs are
requested to facilitate such interviews with as many as reasonably practicable.
Radio Broadcasters means for the purposes of this Rule UK radio broadcasters only.
With regard to Rule K.99.2, the League in this context means Premier League Productions, the Leagues appointed
production partner which undertakes the broadcast of all League Matches on behalf of the League. The League then
distributes content to Overseas Broadcasters.
The Match Manager will determine and manage the order in which interviews pursuant to Rule K.99 will take place and
communicate this in the week leading up to the League Match.
Interviews with TV Broadcasters which take place pursuant to Rules K.98 and K.99 must take place in front of the
Interview Backdrops to be provided by the League.
K.100.
Each Club shall ensure that each of its Players listed on its team sheet for a League Match
shall walk through the Mixed Zone when exiting the Stadium (save that the Club need not
compel a Player to do so in exceptional circumstances).
Guidance
Clubs may withdraw a Player from walking through the Mixed Zone in exceptional circumstances, e.g. where the Player
has suffered injury and needs medical treatment or is subject to doping control.
K.101.
Each Home Club shall facilitate a media conference (the Post-Match Media Conference).
K.102.
The Post-Match Media Conference shall take place after the conclusion of each League
Match in the media conference room referred to in Rule K.86.
K.103.
Each Home Club shall ensure that Broadcasters who wish to do so have access to the PostMatch Media Conference and may at its discretion give such access to accredited
representatives of other media.
K.104.
Each Club shall ensure that its Manager attends the Post-Match Media Conference
Promotional Photographs and Footage
K.105.
Each Club shall make sure that all of its Contract Players and its Manager are available
together for at least half a day to be photographed and filmed by the League or its appointee:
K.105.1.
no later than 48 hours before the start of each Season; and
K.105.2. when reasonably requested to do so by the League.
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Guidance
SECTION K: STADIUM CRITERIA AND BROADCASTERS REQUIREMENTS
K.106.
For the purposes of the photography and filming referred to in Rule K.105:
PREMIER LEAGUE RULES: SECTION A
K
K.106.1. each Contract Player shall wear each of the Strips registered by the Club pursuant
to Rule M.17; and
K.106.2. the Manager shall wear match day attire (such as the Clubs official training kit or
blazer or suit).
K.107.
Each Club shall make available at its Stadium or training ground two rooms, each measuring
at least 7m x 6m x 3m and with benefit of mains electric power, for the purposes of the
filming and photography referred to in Rule K.105.
K.108.
Each Club shall provide to the League by no later than 30 September each year a group
photograph of all of the Players included on its Squad List and any Under 21 Players who in
the Clubs reasonable opinion will play in a significant number of League Matches.
Guidance
The purpose of this requirement is primarily to provide footage of players to be used in dynamic line-ups by TV
Broadcasters. In addition, photographs of players will be used by the Leagues trading cards partner. The League will hold
the copyright in these photographs and licence it to Clubs.
In the event that the League or its appointee is unable to carry out the filming or photography of a Contract Player
pursuant to Rule K.105 then the Club should provide to the League a front-on head and body photograph of the Contract
Player wearing the Clubs home Strip.
As squads change over the Season, the League will ask Clubs to give access to new Players pursuant to Rule K.105.2.
While the League will work with Clubs to schedule these further sessions, they will need to be undertaken before any new
Player plays in a League Match.
League Pre-Season Media Event
K.109.
Each Club shall, when requested to do so by the League, ensure that its captain and Manager
are available to attend the Leagues designated pre-season media event.
K.110.
Such attendance shall mean the captain and Manager being available for a continuous 2 hour
period at a location of the Leagues choice and include their being interviewed by Broadcasters.
Guidance
The League will only organise 1 pre-season media event each year. It may be broadcast live. Representatives of the
media, as well as Broadcasters, will be invited to attend.
The League envisages that it will ask the previous seasons League Champions, plus a Club from those who finished in the
top 10 the previous season and one from those who finished in positions 11 to 17 in the previous season, together with a
newly Promoted Club, to make available Players and the Manager pursuant to Rule K.109. The Clubs who are asked will
also be rotated from season to season (save, where applicable, in the case of the League Champions). The League will
make travel arrangements and meet travel expenses.
The Leagues pre-season media event may focus on specific themes or issues (e.g. young players or home-grown players),
in which case the Clubs who are requested to make Players available pursuant to Rule K.109 will be asked to provide
Players whose background or experience is relevant to the particular theme or issue.
K.111.
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Each Club shall ensure that, when reasonably requested to do so by the League, Players and
Managers will take part in recordings for the promotional purposes of Broadcasters and the
League, such recordings to be made by the Broadcaster in question.
SECTION K: STADIUM CRITERIA AND BROADCASTERS REQUIREMENTS
Guidance
The League will manage the requests for access made by Broadcasters under Rule K.111 to ensure that the demands made
of Clubs or of individual Players and Managers are not too onerous.
K.112.
On the day of each League Match, each Club shall ensure that its floodlights are operational
and comply with the requirements of these Rules for such period as the Board may from time
to time specify.
K.113.
A Clubs Stadium must have floodlights giving a maintained vertical illuminance of:
K.113.1. an average of at least 1650 lux and a minimum of at least 1000 lux when measured
towards the principal camera on the Television Gantry; and
K.113.2. an average of at least 1000 lux and a minimum of at least 650 lux at any one
location on the pitch when measured towards the 4 vertical planes at 0, 90,
180 and 270 as shown in the pitch lighting grid set out below.
Guidance
The average lux value referred to in Rule K.113.1 is calculated by adding together the readings in each direction taken from
each of the 96 measurement points referred to in Rule K.115 and dividing them by 96.
The average lux value referred to in Rule K.113.2 is calculated by adding together the readings taken in the same direction
at each of the 96 measurement points referred to in Rule K.115 and dividing the total by 96.
Clubs should also take measurements on the horizontal plane at all 96 measurements as referred to in Rule K.115 for
reference. These measurements should be reported in the Form 8A as per K.124.
All measurements should be taken at 1m above the pitch surface.
K.114.
The floodlighting must provide uniformity of maintained vertical illuminance at all locations
on the pitch such that the minimum illuminance is no less than half of the maximum
illuminance and no less than 60% of the average illuminance.
Guidance
The requirements of Rule K.114 are often expressed by technical experts as U1 values and U2 values in the
following manner:
Uniformity (U1 [min/max]) > 0.50
Uniformity (U2 [min/ave]) > 0.60
K.115.
Calculation, measurement and reporting of the lux values shall be undertaken on the pitch
using 96 measurement points in a grid format and at an equal distance from each other.
K.116.
At each of the 96 measurement points referred to in Rule K.115, 5 measurements shall be
taken at one metre above the pitch and in the following 5 directions:
K.116.1. one measurement shall be taken towards the main camera on the Television
Gantry (represented at position no. 1 on Plan A of Appendix 3); and
K.116.2. 4 measurements shall be taken in four directions. The measurements shall be taken
at 0, 90, 180 and 270 planes as shown in the pitch lighting grid set out below.
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Floodlights
SECTION K: STADIUM CRITERIA AND BROADCASTERS REQUIREMENTS
Guidance Pitch Lighting Grid
PREMIER LEAGUE RULES: SECTION A
K
To illustrate what is meant by this, Clubs are requested to measure and report lux values using a grid as shown below
demonstrating each point on the pitch at which a measurement must be taken and recorded:
The certificate to be provided to the League pursuant to Rule K.124 must contain the outcome of the measurement of
the lux values at each point and in each direction on the pitch in this format. As 5 measurements must be taken at each
of the 96 points, a total of 480 measurements must be taken (or 576 if including the horizontal plane readings that are
required for reference).
K.117.
The 12 rows of seating nearest to the pitch (save for such rows in the stand where the
Television Gantry is situated) shall be illuminated such that they have a minimum vertical
illuminance perpendicular to the pitch of at least 165 lux and provide a comfortable, glarefree environment for spectators.
K.118.
The illuminance referred to in Rule K.117 shall be measured by measurements taken at
illuminance test reference points located at 10m intervals on the 10th row of seating around
the pitch. The illuminance test reference points are required in all seating areas around the
perimeter of the pitch save for areas adjacent to the Television Gantry.
K.119.
Floodlighting shall be installed and arranged so as not to cause undue glare to Players.
Guidance
This is especially important in the goalmouth area where it is recommended by the International Commission on
Illumination that no floodlights are installed in the horizontal zone of 5 of either side of the goal line.
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SECTION K: STADIUM CRITERIA AND BROADCASTERS REQUIREMENTS
K.120.
Each Clubs floodlighting shall have:
K.120.1.
colour rendering index Ra of greater than 80;
K.120.3. flicker (as measured by flicker factor) of no more than 6% at any one or more of
the 96 measurement points referred to in Rule K.115 when measured towards the
principal camera on the Television Gantry.
Guidance
The colour rendering index Ra referred to in Rule K.120.1 is certified by the luminaire and lamp manufacturer, and Clubs
are entitled to rely on this (the League will not require any further certification of it).
K.121.
Each Club must have installed at or adjacent to its Stadium an alternative power source for
the floodlights such that the floodlighting shall continue with a minimum average illuminance
of 800 lux towards the main camera in the event of the failure of the primary power source.
K.122.
Details of the alternative power source referred to in Rule K.121, the estimated time before
floodlights are available again in the event of failure of the primary power source, and the lux
value of the floodlights when powered by the alternative power source must be set out in the
annual floodlighting report referred to in Rule K.124.
K.123.
Each Club shall ensure that the floodlighting installation and supporting services at its
Stadium are properly designed and maintained.
K.124.
Between 1 March and 4 weeks before the commencement of the following Season, a
certificate in Form 8A signed by a Chartered Electrical Engineer, a member of the Institute of
Lighting Professionals or a member of the Society of Light and Lighting (in this Rule the
Signatory) shall be provided by the Club to the League to certify that:
K.124.1. the floodlights have been inspected by the Signatory and in his opinion comply
with Rules K.113 to K.123;
K.124.2. the illuminance meter used to measure compliance with Rule K.113 was:
K.124.2.1 cosine corrected;
K.124.2.2 suitable for use for measuring the illuminance of floodlighting;
K.124.2.3 fitted with a wide-angle receptive light sensor; and
K.124.2.4 calibrated at least once in the previous 12 months (and a copy of the
most recent certificate of calibration shall be attached to Form 8A); and
K.124.3. the floodlighting installation and its supporting services have been designed to an
appropriate standard in compliance with these Rules and have been properly
maintained.
K.125.
If works are undertaken at a Clubs floodlighting installation and support services after the
submission of the certificate referred to in Rule K.124 then the Club must provide a further
such certificate to the League within 4 weeks of those works being concluded.
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K.120.2. an average colour temperature of between 5200kelvin and 6000kelvin, being the
average of 3 measurements taken in the middle of each goal-line and on the
centre spot; and
CLUBS: OPERATIONS
SECTION L: FIXTURES
Arranging Fixtures
PREMIER
PREMIER LEAGUE
LEAGUE RULES:
RULES: SECTION
SECTION A
L
L.1.
The Board shall:
L.1.1.
determine the dates and kick-off times of all League Matches as soon as
practicable prior to the commencement of each Season; and
L.1.2. have the power at any time thereafter to change the date and kick-off time of a
League Match, and before exercising such power the Board will consult with and
take into account any representations made by the Clubs participating in the League
Match in question and any other Club or Clubs which may be affected thereby.
L.2.
Each Club shall use its best endeavours to ensure that each League Match takes place on the
date and at the time fixed for it.
L.3.
No fixtures shall be arranged on or on any of the 6 days preceding the 4 dates agreed
between the League and the Football Association prior to each Season upon which
international matches will be played.
L.4.
League Matches will be played on New Years Day unless it falls on a Thursday or Friday and
F.A. Cup matches are scheduled to be played on the immediately following Saturday.
L.5.
All intellectual property and other rights in the Leagues fixture list shall belong to the
League.
L.6.
A Club engaged in any match played in a UEFA competition on a Thursday evening and a
League Match on the following Saturday may rearrange the League Match to the following
Sunday provided that:
L.6.1. it gives notice to that effect to the Secretary and to its League Match opposing
Club within 72 hours of the date of the UEFA match being fixed (or, if the period of
72 hours expires on a day which is not a Working Day, by close of business on the
first Working Day thereafter);
L.6.2.
there is no police objection;
L.6.3. the rearrangement of the League Match does not result in the opposing Club
having to play another League Match, F.A. Cup match or UEFA match within 2
days of the rearranged League Match being played; and
L.6.4. the kick-off time of the re-arranged League Match is the same as that of one of
the League Matches (if any) which have been selected for live Transmission in the
United Kingdom on that Sunday, or such other kick-off time as the Board may
approve.
L.7.
A Club may apply to the Board to rearrange any fixture so that it is played on a different date
or at a different kick-off time.
Arranging Other Matches
L.8.
A Club shall not arrange to play a friendly match during the Season:
L.8.1. until the dates of League Matches for that Season have been fixed and published
in accordance with Rule L.1; or
L.8.2.
154
so that it adversely affects a League Match.
SECTION L: FIXTURES
Other Competitions
L.9.
Except with the prior written approval of the Board, a Club shall not enter or play in any
competition other than:
the UEFA Champions League;
L.9.2.
the UEFA Europa League;
L.9.3.
the F.A. Cup;
L.9.4.
the F.A. Community Shield;
L.9.5.
the Football League Cup;
L.9.6.
competitions sanctioned by the County Association of which it is a member.
L.10.
Each Club shall enter the F.A. Cup.
L.11.
Qualification for UEFA Club Competitions shall be on sporting merit through domestic
competitions controlled or sanctioned by the Football Association. Clubs qualifying for a UEFA
Club Competition must apply for a UEFA Club Licence in accordance with the Licensing Manual.
Postponement of League Matches
L.12.
A League Match shall not be postponed or abandoned except:
L.12.1. when on the date fixed for it to be played either the Home Club or the Visiting
Club is competing in a competition permitted by Rules L.9.1, L.9.2, and L.9.3; or
L.13.
L.12.2.
with the approval of or on the instructions of the officiating referee; or
L.12.3.
by order of the police; or
L.12.4.
by order of any other authority exercising its statutory powers to that effect; or
L.12.5.
on the instructions of or with the prior written consent of the Board.
Where it is proposed to postpone a League Match pursuant to Rule L.12.4 on the grounds of
safety, the appropriate Official of the Home Club shall:
L.13.1. complete and make available on request to the Premier League all relevant risk
assessment documentation; and
L.13.2. time permitting, consult with the officiating referee, the police and the chairman
of the Clubs Safety Advisory Group and ensure that the match delegate appointed
to attend the League Match pursuant to Rule L.17 is fully briefed as to the reasons
for the postponement.
L.14.
Upon a League Match being postponed or abandoned in accordance with Rules L.12.1, L.12.2,
L.12.3, or L.12.4 the Home Club shall forthwith inform the Secretary, and the Board will
thereupon exercise its power under Rule L.1.2 and fix a date and kick-off time of the rearranged League Match.
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LEAGUE RULES:
RULES: SECTION
SECTION A
L
L.9.1.
SECTION L: FIXTURES
Guidance
PREMIER
PREMIER LEAGUE
LEAGUE RULES:
RULES: SECTION
SECTION A
L
Clubs are reminded of their obligation pursuant to Rule L.2 to use their best endeavours to ensure that all League Matches
take place on the date and at the kick-off time fixed for them. Pursuant to this, Clubs are expected to do all they can to
address any concerns raised by a statutory authority.
Failure to Play a League Match
L.15.
Except in the case of a League Match which, without either of the participating Clubs being
at fault, is postponed or abandoned under the provisions of Rule L.12, any Club which causes
the postponement or abandonment of a League Match on the date fixed under Rule L.1 or to
which it is rearranged under Rules L.1.2, L.6 or L.7 will be in breach of these Rules.
Replaying a League Match
L.16.
The Board shall have power to order that a League Match be replayed provided that a
recommendation to that effect has been made by a Commission in exercise of its powers
under Rule W.54.
Match Delegate
L.17.
The League will appoint a match delegate to attend each League Match and the Home Club
shall ensure that he is allocated a prime seat and allowed access to all areas of the Stadium.
L.18.
The match delegate will act as an official representative of the League at the League Match
to which he is appointed and he will report thereon to the League.
Full Strength Teams
L.19.
In every League Match each participating Club shall field a full strength team.
Minimum Age
L.20.
A Player who for the purpose of Youth Development Rule 2 is placed in an age group below
Under 16 shall not be named in a Clubs team sheet for or participate in a League Match.
Team Sheet
L.21.
At least 75 minutes before the time fixed for the kick-off of a League Match, a senior member
of the coaching staff and the first team captain of each participating Club shall attend a
briefing with the referee and hand to him and their opponents a team sheet in Form 9
containing the following particulars:
L.21.1. the shirt numbers and names of its Players (including substitute Players) who are
to take part in that League Match;
L.21.2.
the colour of the Strip to be worn by its Players, including the goalkeeper;
L.21.3. the names and job titles of up to 7 Officials who will occupy the trainers bench
during that League Match
L.22.
156
Any Club acting in breach of Rule L.21 will pay a fixed penalty of 300 in respect of a first
such breach, 600 in respect of a second such breach and 1,200 in respect of a third such
breach. Any subsequent breach shall be dealt with under the provisions of Section W of these
Rules (Disciplinary).
SECTION L: FIXTURES
If any Player (or substitute Player) named in a team sheet is injured or otherwise incapacitated
after the submission of the team sheet but before kick-off, upon his Team Doctor or, if he is
unavailable, another doctor certifying that the injury or incapacitation is such that the Player
in question cannot reasonably be expected to play, the Club may add the name of another
Player to the team sheet as a Player or substitute Player.
L.24.
Any amendment to the team sheet pursuant to Rule L.23 shall be communicated forthwith
to the referee, the opposing Club and the Match Manager.
L.25.
No Player whose name does not appear on his Clubs team sheet shall take the field of play
in that League Match.
Substitute Players
L.26.
In any League Match a Club may include in its team sheet up to 7 substitute Players of who
not more than 3 may take part in the League Match subject to the conditions set out in Law
3 of the Laws of the Game.
L.27.
Not more than 3 substitute Players of each Club shall warm up at the same time on the
perimeter of a pitch upon which a League Match is being played.
Kick-Off
L.28.
Each Club participating in a League Match shall adhere to the kick-off time and the Home
Club shall report any delay to the Secretary together with any explanation therefor.
L.29.
Any Club which without good reason causes to be delayed either the kick-off of a League
Match from the time fixed or the re-start after the half-time interval:
L.29.1. shall on the first such occasion pay a fixed penalty of 5,000 if the delay does not
exceed 15 minutes;
L.29.2. shall on a second or subsequent occasion within 2 years of the first such occasion
or if in any case the delay exceeds 15 minutes be dealt with under the provisions
of Section W of these Rules (Disciplinary).
Processional Entry
L.30.
Teams participating in a League Match will process together onto the field of play 5 minutes
before kick-off, led by the referee and the assistant referees.
Use of Official Ball
L.31.
In all League Matches the Home Club shall provide and the participating Clubs shall use only
the official ball approved from time to time by the League.
Occupation of the Technical Area
L.32.
The technical area shall be occupied during a League Match only by substitute Players and
Officials whose names appear on the team sheet.
L.33.
Any Player who is dismissed from the field of play shall proceed immediately to the dressing
room and shall not occupy the technical area.
157
PREMIER
PREMIER LEAGUE
LEAGUE RULES:
RULES: SECTION
SECTION A
L
L.23.
SECTION L: FIXTURES
PREMIER
PREMIER LEAGUE
LEAGUE RULES:
RULES: SECTION
SECTION A
L
Duration of League Matches
L.34.
Subject to the provisions of Law 7 of the Laws of the Game and Rule L.35, the duration of a
League Match shall be 90 minutes.
L.35.
The Board may order a League Match which for whatever reason lasts for less than 90
minutes to count as a completed fixture or to be replayed either partially or in its entirety.
L.36.
The half-time interval in League Matches shall be 15 minutes.
Notification of League Match results
L.37.
By 12 noon on the first Working Day after a League Match each participating Club shall
submit Form 10 to the Secretary duly completed.
Gate Statements
L.38.
Within 10 Working Days of a League Match the Home Club shall submit Form 11 to the
Secretary duly completed.
Penalties
L.39.
Any Club acting in breach of Rules L.30 or L.37 will pay a fixed penalty of 300 in respect of
a first such breach, 600 in respect of a second such breach and 1,200 in respect of a third
such breach. Any subsequent breach shall be dealt with under the provisions of Section W of
these Rules (Disciplinary).
Compensation for Postponed Matches
L.40.
Compensation shall be payable to a Home Club if a League Match in which it should
participate is postponed, provided that:
L.40.1 the postponement is caused by the Visiting Club on the date fixed for the League
Match or on a date reasonably proximate thereto being engaged in an F.A. Cup
match or a Football League Cup match; and
L.40.2 on the date fixed for the League Match the Home Club is no longer engaged in the
relevant competition.
L.41.
In the case of a postponement caused by an F.A. Cup match compensation shall be paid out
of the F.A. Cup pool and in the case of a Football League Cup match out of the Football
League Cup pool or in either case as the Board shall determine.
L.42.
In either case the amount of compensation shall be the sum (if any) by which the Home
Clubs net revenue from the postponed League Match falls short of the Home Clubs average
net revenue for League Matches played in that Season.
Provision of Hospitality for Officials
L.43.
158
Each Home Club shall provide hospitality arrangements for the Directors and other Officials
of the Visiting Club.
SECTION L: FIXTURES
PREMIER
PREMIER LEAGUE
LEAGUE RULES:
RULES: SECTION
SECTION A
L
159
CLUBS: OPERATIONS
SECTION M: PLAYERS IDENTIFICATION AND STRIP
PREMIER LEAGUE RULES: SECTION M
A
Player Identification
M.1.
Before the commencement of each Season each Club shall allocate a different shirt number
to each member of its first team squad.
M.2.
A Club shall likewise allocate a shirt number to any Player joining its first team squad during
the Season.
M.3.
Save with the prior written consent of the Board shirt numbers shall commence with the
number one and shall be allocated consecutively.
M.4.
While he remains with the Club a Player will retain his shirt number throughout the Season
for which it was allocated.
M.5.
Upon a Player leaving a Club the shirt number allocated to him may be re-allocated.
M.6.
Each Club shall forthwith provide to the Secretary on Form 12 full details in writing of shirt
numbers allocated so that throughout each Season the Secretary is aware of the names of
members of the first team squad of each Club and the shirt numbers allocated to them.
M.7.
When playing in League Matches each Player shall wear a shirt on the back of which shall be
prominently displayed his shirt number so as to be clearly visible in accordance with
guidelines laid down by the Board from time to time, and above that his surname or such
other name as may be approved in writing by the Board.
M.8.
The Players shirt number shall also appear on the front of the left leg of his shorts.
M.9.
The size, style, colour and design of shirt numbers, lettering and the logo of the League
appearing on a Players shirt or shorts and the material from which such numbers, lettering
and logo are made shall be determined by the Board from time to time.
M.10.
The colour and design of the shirt and stockings worn by the goalkeeper when playing in
League Matches shall be such as to distinguish him from the other Players and from Match
Officials.
M.11.
The captain of each team appearing in a League Match shall wear an armband provided by
the League indicating his status as such.
M.12.
Any Club acting in breach of any of Rules M.1 to M.11 inclusive will be liable to pay to the
League a fixed penalty of 300 for a first breach, 600 for a second breach and 1,200 for a
third breach. Any subsequent breach may be dealt under the provisions of Section W of these
Rules (Disciplinary).
Home and Alternative Strip
M.13.
Each Club shall have a home Strip and up to a maximum of two alternative Strips which shall
be worn by its Players in League Matches in accordance with the provisions of these Rules.
M.14.
Each Club must have at least one alternative Strip which differs visibly from and contrasts
with its Home Strip (including the goalkeepers Home Strip) to the extent that the two Strips
could be worn by opposite teams in a match.
M.15.
The logo of the League shall appear on each sleeve of both home Strip and alternative Strip
shirts.
160
SECTION M: PLAYERS IDENTIFICATION AND STRIP
Neither the home Strip shirt nor the shirt of either of the alternative Strips shall be of a colour
or design alike or similar to the outfits of Match Officials.
M.17.
Not later than 4 weeks before the commencement of each Season each Club shall register its
Strips by submitting to the Secretary Form 13 together with samples of its home Strip,
alternative Strip(s) and goalkeepers Strip complying with these Rules and a brief written
description of each and the Secretary having entered the descriptions in a register will cause the
same to be printed in the handbook of the League, on the Extranet and on the Leagues website.
M.18.
Each Strip submitted for registration in accordance with Rule M.17 shall have on it:
M.18.1. the shirt number and name of any Player in the Clubs first team squad, displayed
as required by Rule M.7;
M.18.2. any advertisement for which the approval of the Board is either sought or has
already been given under the provisions of Rule M.30.1
M.19.
If pursuant to Rule M.17 a Club seeks to register a Strip which does not comply with these
Rules:
M.19.1. the Board shall give to that Club notice in writing to that effect giving full details
of the changes required to achieve compliance; and
M.19.2. the Strip in question shall not be worn by that Clubs Players until a further sample
has been submitted to and approved in writing by the Board.
M.20.
Subject to Rule M.21, Strips of the description thus registered shall be worn throughout the
Season immediately following and no changes to it shall be made except with the prior
written permission of the Board.
M.21.
On the occasion of a Clubs last home or away League Match in any Season a further Strip (i.e.
not one registered by the Club in accordance with Rule M.17) may be worn provided that:
M.21.1. at least 7 days prior written notice of intention to do so is given to the Secretary
(such notice to be accompanied by a sample of the Strip intended to be worn) and
the opposing Club (such notice to be accompanied by a CAD drawing of the Strip
intended to be worn);
M.21.2. the alternative Strip shall be subsequently registered as the Clubs home or
alternative Strip for the following Season.
M.22.
Subject to Rules M.21 and M.23, when playing in League Matches the Players of each
participating Club shall wear Strip which is of a sufficient contrast that Match Officials,
spectators and television viewers will be able to distinguish clearly between the two teams.
In selecting the choice of Strip the following order of precedence shall apply unless authorised
by the Board:
M.22.1. 1st priority: the outfield players of the Home Club who shall wear their Home Strip;
M.22.2. 2nd priority: the outfield players of the Visiting Club;
M.22.3. 3rd priority: the Home Club goalkeeper;
M.22.4. 4th priority: the Away Club goalkeeper
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PREMIER LEAGUE RULES: SECTION M
A
M.16.
PREMIER LEAGUE RULES: SECTION M
A
SECTION M: PLAYERS IDENTIFICATION AND STRIP
M.23.
The Match Officials shall wear colours that distinguish them from the Strip worn by the two
Clubs. In the event of the Match Officials not having distinguishing colours then the Away
Club goalkeeper must change and if this is not possible the Home Club goalkeeper must do so.
M.24.
At least 10 days prior to each League Match the Visiting Club shall notify the Home Club and
the League on Form 14 of the Strip it intends its Players (including for the avoidance of doubt
its goalkeeper) to wear.
M.25.
The League, in consultation with PGMOL acting on behalf of the referee, will determine any
disputes arising between Clubs and no later than three working days prior to each League
Match notify both Clubs and the Match Officials of the colours to be worn.
M.26.
In the event of a dispute arising on the day of a League Match in relation to the Strip to be
worn then the referees decision shall be final.
M.27.
Subject to Rule M.21, no Club shall participate in a League Match wearing Strip other than its
registered home Strip or alternative Strip or a combination of the same (in either case as
instructed under Rule M.25 or Rule M.26) except with the prior written consent of the Board.
M.28.
Each Club shall ensure that it has available at each League Match a replacement Strip for
each Player named on the team sheet which can be used in the event of a Player requiring
to change any part of his Strip. Each Players replacement Strip shall comply with Rules M.7
and M.8.
M.29
When participating in a League Match no Player shall reveal undergarments that show
political, religious or personal slogans, statements or images, or advertising other than a
manufacturers logo. The Board may proceed under Section W against either the Player or his
Club or both for any breach of this Rule.
Strip Advertising
M.30
Provided that:
M.30.1.
the content, design and area of the advertisement is approved by the Board; and
M.30.2. it complies with the Football Association Rules for the time being in force;
advertising on Strip shall be permitted.
162
SECTION M: PLAYERS IDENTIFICATION AND STRIP
PREMIER LEAGUE RULES: SECTION M
A
163
CLUBS: OPERATIONS
SECTION N: MATCH OFFICIALS
PREMIER LEAGUE RULES: SECTION N
A
Appointment of Match Officials
N.1.
Prior to the commencement of each Season PGMOL will compile and publish a list of referees
and assistant referees eligible to be appointment to officiate at forthcoming League Matches.
N.2.
PGMOL shall be empowered to remove the name of any Match Official from its list at any time.
N.3.
PGMOL will appoint the Match Officials to officiate at each League Match. PGMOL will give
notice of such appointment to the participating Clubs and on Form 15 to the Match Officials
so appointed who shall each forthwith acknowledge their appointment to PGMOL.
Rules binding on Match Officials
N.4.
Acknowledgement by a Match Official of an appointment made under Rule N.3 shall
constitute an agreement with the League by such Match Official to be bound by and to
comply with:
N.4.1.
the Laws of the Game;
N.4.2.
the Football Association Rules;
N.4.3.
these Rules.
Payments to Match Officials
N.5.
No Club or Official shall either directly or indirectly make or offer to make any payment to or
confer or offer to confer any benefit upon any Match Official.
Pre-Match Procedures
N.6.
Prior to the commencement of a League Match at which he has been appointment to
officiate, the referee shall:N.6.1. together with the other Match Officials, arrive at the Stadium not less than two
hours before the advertised time of kick-off;
N.6.2.
decide on the fitness of the pitch for the playing of the League Match and
N.6.2.1. if the referee considers it to be unfit, instruct that the League Match be
postponed or that the kick-off be delayed;
N.6.2.2. if the referee considers it to be necessary, instruct that the pitch be remarked;
N.6.3.
receive the team sheets of the participating Clubs in accordance with Rule L.21;
N.6.4. permit the amendment of a team sheet if a Player is injured or otherwise
incapacitated as provided in Rule L.23;
N.6.5.
check and approve any football to be used in the League Match;
N.6.6.
ensure that, if appropriate, the Home Club has made a coloured ball available;
N.6.7. wear one of the match uniforms provided by PGMOL ensuring that it does not
clash with the Strip worn by either of the participating teams;
N.6.8. ensure that the Players Strip complies with the provisions of Section M of these Rules;
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SECTION N: MATCH OFFICIALS
N.6.9. ensure that the uniform worn by any ballboy or steward does not clash with the
Strip worn by either of the participating teams and if in his opinion there is such a
clash, he shall be authorised to request such ballboy or steward to change his
uniform or to leave the vicinity of the field of play;
N.6.11. such other matters as may be agreed between the League and PGMOL from time
to time.
Compliance with Instructions
N.7.
Players and Officials shall comply with any lawful instruction given to them by a Match
Official officiating at a League Match
Post-Match Procedures
N.8.
The referee shall send the team sheets to and make the following reports in writing to the
Secretary as soon as practicable after officiating at a League Match:
N.8.1.
on the standard of facilities for Match Officials provided by the Home Club;
N.8.2. on the late arrival at the Stadium of any of the Match Officials giving reasons
therefore;
N.8.3. on the condition of the pitch;
N.8.4. on the circumstances surrounding the kick-off or re-start being delayed;
N.8.5. on either team commencing the League Match with less than a full complement of
Players;
N.8.6. on any change of Strip ordered;
N.8.7. on the failure of a team to process together onto the field of play in accordance
with Rule L.30;
N.8.8. on any Player being cautioned or sent-off;
N.8.9.
on either assistant referee taking over as referee and stating the reason therefore;
N.8.10. on any breach of these Rules by Clubs, Players, Officials, Managers and other
Match Officials; and
N.8.11. any other matter which the referee considers appropriate to bring to the Secretarys
attention.
N.9.
A referee shall likewise report to the Football Association any breach of the Football
Association Rules.
N.10.
As soon as practicable after and in any event within 6 days of a League Match the Home Club
shall provide a recording on DVD (or such other format as the League shall specify) of the
League Match to each of the referee and the League.
N.11.
Any Club acting in breach of Rule N.10 will be liable to pay to the League a fixed penalty of
300 for a first breach, 600 for a second breach and 1,200 for a third breach. Any
subsequent breach may be dealt with under the provisions of Section W of these Rules
(Disciplinary).
165
PREMIER LEAGUE RULES: SECTION N
A
N.6.10. with the assistant referees lead the participating teams onto the field of play 5
minutes before kick-off; and
CLUBS: OPERATIONS
SECTION O: MEDICAL
PREMIER LEAGUE RULES: SECTION O
A
Doctors General
O.1.
Each Clubs Team Doctor, Crowd Doctor and Medical Coordinator, and any other doctor
appointed by the Club, shall be registered medical practitioners licensed to practice by the
General Medical Council.
O.2.
References in these Rules to a requirement to hold a current Football Association Advanced
Resuscitation and Emergency Aid Certificate (AREA Certificate) shall mean that the
individual concerned shall:
O.2.1. have successfully undertaken the full AREA Certificate course in the last 36
months; and
O.2.2. have successfully undertaken the AREA Certificate refresher course in the last 14
months (unless he successfully undertook the full AREA Certificate course within
that period).
Team Doctor
O.3.
Each Club shall appoint at least one Team Doctor who shall work on at least a part time basis.
O.4.
Each doctor appointed by a Club whose responsibilities include giving medical treatment to
Players (including, without limitation, the Team Doctor but excluding the Medical
Coordinator, as to whose qualifications see Rule O.6 below) must:
O.4.1. if first appointed on or after the commencement of Season 2002/03, hold a
diploma in sports medicine or an equivalent or higher professional qualification;
O.4.2.
hold a current AREA Certificate or an equivalent or higher professional
qualification approved by the Board; and
O.4.3. comply with the General Medical Councils requirements concerning annual
appraisal and periodic revalidation of doctors.
Medical Coordinator
O.5.
Each Club shall appoint at least one Medical Coordinator who shall work on at least a part
time basis.
O.6.
Each Medical Coordinator must:
O.6.1. hold a suitable post-graduate qualification and/or have substantial and relevant
experience, sufficient in either case to establish to the satisfaction of the Board
that he is an appropriate individual to undertake or assist with the emergency
treatment of Players and Match Officials; and
O.6.2. hold a current AREA Certificate or an equivalent or higher qualification approved
by the Board.
O.7.
Each Medical Coordinator shall:
O.7.1. liaise with the Visiting Clubs Team Doctor prior to each League Match in order to
explain to him the Home Clubs arrangements for emergency care, with reference
to the Home Clubs emergency care/medical information sheet referred to in Rule
O.19.9;
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SECTION O: MEDICAL
O.7.2. on the day of the League Match, be available to deal with any queries of the
Visiting Clubs Team Doctor and ensure that the latter is given the opportunity to
familiarise himself with the Home Clubs medical facilities and to meet the
paramedics present at the League Match pursuant to Rule O.19.4;
at the request of either Team Doctor:
O.7.3.1.
assist with the treatment of injuries;
O.7.3.2. care for and monitor any Player or Match Official who has left the field
of play; and
O.7.3.3. act as the lead point of liaison and co-ordination for all Players or
Match Officials referred to hospital, including by liaising with the
hospital and establishing contact with local ambulances and hospital
emergency departments.
Crowd Doctor
O.8.
Each Club shall appoint at least one Crowd Doctor who shall work on at least a part time
basis.
O.9.
A Crowd Doctor shall either:
O.9.1. hold the Diploma in Immediate Medical Care issued by the Royal College of
Surgeons (Edinburgh) Faculty of Pre-Hospital Care (the Faculty) or its
equivalent; or
O.9.2. have successfully undertaken the Facultys Generic Crowd Doctor Training course
or its equivalent.
O.10.
Each Crowd Doctor shall successfully undertake the Facultys Generic Refresher and Skills
Update Course at least once every five years.
Physiotherapists
O.11.
Each Club shall employ a full time senior physiotherapist.
O.12.
The senior physiotherapist shall:
O.12.1. be a registered physiotherapist member of the Health and Care Professions
Council; and
O.12.2. hold a current AREA Certificate or an equivalent or higher qualification approved
by the Board.
O.13.
Any other physiotherapist employed by a Club shall:
O.13.1. be a registered physiotherapist member of the Health and Care Professions Council;
or
O.13.2. hold the Football Associations Diploma in the Treatment and Management of
Injuries or an equivalent or higher qualification approved by the Board; and
O.13.3. hold a current AREA Certificate or an equivalent or higher qualification approved
by the Board.
167
PREMIER LEAGUE RULES: SECTION O
A
O.7.3.
PREMIER LEAGUE RULES: SECTION O
A
SECTION O: MEDICAL
O.14.
Any other sports therapist employed by a Club shall hold a current AREA Certificate or an
equivalent or higher qualification approved by the Board.
O.15.
Physiotherapists and sports therapists appointed by a Club shall each year undertake a
minimum of 36 hours of continuing professional development and shall maintain a record
thereof and produce the same for inspection by a duly appointed representative of the
League when requested and in addition shall attend the education conferences and seminars
organised by the Football Association.
Emergency Care Protocol
O.16.
Each Club shall prepare and make available to the League on request an emergency care
protocol which shall:
O.16.1. set out protocols detailing the management of injuries to Players and Match
Officials sustained during League Matches and training; and
O.16.2. detail all first aid facilities and medical equipment maintained by the Club in the
event that treatment of such injuries is necessary.
O.17.
The emergency care protocol shall be:
O.17.1. drawn up under the guidance of, and be regularly reviewed and if necessary
amended by, the Team Doctor in consultation with the Medical Coordinator,
senior physiotherapist, and such other Persons as the Club may consider
appropriate; and
O.17.2.
O.18.
annually reported to and approved by the Clubs board.
Each Club shall ensure that:
O.18.1.
it manages effectively all medical issues that may arise at a League Match; and
O.18.2. its first aid facilities and medical equipment are properly maintained and are in
full working order.
Attendance of Medical Personnel and Provision of Medical Facilities
O.19.
At every League Match:
O.19.1. each participating Club shall procure the attendance of its Team Doctor and the
Home Club shall procure the attendance of its Crowd Doctor and Medical
Coordinator. The Home Clubs Team Doctor, Crowd Doctor and Medical
Coordinator shall be available throughout and for a reasonable time before and
after the match;
O.19.2. each participating Club shall procure the attendance of a physiotherapist or
therapist who is qualified as required by these Rules;
O.19.3. each participating Clubs Team Doctor and physiotherapist or therapist (who shall
be qualified as required by these Rules) shall occupy that Clubs trainers bench
during the League Match;
O.19.4. the Home Club shall procure the attendance of at least two fully qualified and
appropriately insured paramedics who shall be available to assist with on-field
medical incidents;
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SECTION O: MEDICAL
O.19.5. no person other than a participating Clubs Team Doctor, physiotherapist or
therapist (who shall be qualified as required by these Rules) or the paramedics
referred to in Rule O.19.4 shall be permitted to treat Players or Match Officials on
the field of play;
O.19.7. the Home Club shall provide a medical treatment and examination room close to
both teams dressing rooms and shall ensure that the mandatory equipment as
prescribed by the Board from time to time is available;
O.19.8. the Home Club shall ensure that throughout each League Match a fully equipped,
dedicated and appropriately insured ambulance suitable to carry an emergency
casualty and staffed by a person or persons qualified to perform essential
emergency care en route is available at the Stadium to transport any Player or
Match Official requiring emergency treatment to hospital;
O.19.9. the Home Club shall before each League Match make available to the Visiting Club
an emergency care/medical information sheet in the manner prescribed by the
Board from time to time and ensure that it obtains the Visiting Clubs Team
Doctors confirmation that he has received the emergency care/medical
information sheet.
O.20.
At any other match in which a Club team participates (except as required under the Rules of
the F.A. Cup or the Football League Cup) the Home Club shall procure the attendance of the
holder of:
O.20.1.
current, recognised four day first aid at work qualification; or
O.20.2. the FA Emergency Aid qualification and the FA First Aid for Sport qualification; or
O.20.3. a current AREA Certificate.
O.21.
Each Club shall ensure that a doctor or physiotherapist who (in either case) holds a current
AREA Certificate is present during all training at the venue at which such training takes place.
Head Injuries
O.22.
Each Team Doctor, physiotherapist, therapist and Medical Coordinator shall, when present
at a League Match or at any other match or at training, carry the pocket concussion tool
(which is set out at Appendix 4A).
O.23.
Any Player, whether engaged in a League Match, any other match or in training, who has
sustained a head injury, shall not be allowed to resume playing or training (as the case
may be) unless he has been examined and declared fit to do so by his Team Doctor or, if
he is unavailable, by another a medical practitioner. The decision of the Team Doctor or
other medical practitioner as to whether the Player is fit to resume playing or training
shall be final.
169
PREMIER LEAGUE RULES: SECTION O
A
O.19.6. the Home Club shall provide a minimum of 2 stretchers and an appropriately
trained team of stretcher bearers for each stretcher to remove injured Players or
Match Officials from the field of play;
SECTION O: MEDICAL
PREMIER LEAGUE RULES: SECTION O
Medical Records
O.24.
Each Club shall carry out medical examinations on all its Contract Players and Academy
Players registered on scholarship agreements in accordance with the requirements laid down
in Appendix 4 and keep medical records which shall be made available for inspection by
authorised representatives of the League.
O.25.
Where the transfer including the Temporary Transfer of the registration of a Contract
Player is being negotiated between Clubs, the Club holding the registration shall at the
request of the other Club provide to it the medical records of the Contract Player in
question (including for the avoidance of doubt any records which the Club holds of the
cardiac screening of the Player).
Medical Insurance
O.26.
170
During such time as there shall remain in force an agreement between the League and the
Professional Footballers Association for the subsidising of Player insurance schemes, each
Club shall cause each of its Contract Players and those of its Academy Players with whom it
has entered into a Scholarship Agreement to be insured under and in accordance with the
terms of any private medical insurance scheme approved by the Board. In the case of such
Academy Players such insurance may be limited to football related injuries.
SECTION O: MEDICAL
PREMIER LEAGUE RULES: SECTION O
171
CLUBS: OPERATIONS
SECTION P: MANAGERS
PREMIER LEAGUE RULES: SECTION P
Codes of Conduct
P.1.
Managers shall conduct themselves in accordance with the Code of Conduct for Managers
set out in Appendix 5.
P.2.
Clubs shall conduct themselves in relation to Managers in accordance with the Code of
Conduct for Clubs set out in Appendix 6.
P.3.
Any failure by Managers or Clubs to conduct themselves in accordance with their respective
Codes of Conduct will constitute a breach of this Rule.
Coaching Qualifications
P.4.
Each Manager shall either:
P.4.1. hold, or have commenced and be actively engaged on the requisite course to
obtain, a valid UEFA Pro Diploma; or
P.4.2.
hold the Football Association Coaching Diploma; or
P.4.3. hold, or have commenced and be actively engaged on the requisite course to
obtain, a valid diploma of a similar standard issued by another national association.
P.5.
No Club shall employ any person as a Manager who does not hold a qualification listed in
Rule P.4.
P.6.
Rules P.4 and P.5 shall not apply to Managers until the expiry of 12 weeks from the date of
their appointment as such. The Board shall have power to grant an extension of the 12 weeks
period only if reasonably satisfied that a Manager is acting as a temporary replacement for
another who is medically unfit to resume his duties.
Contracts of Employment and Submission to the Secretary
P.7.
The terms of a Managers employment must be evidenced in a written contract, a copy of
which must be submitted to the Secretary within seven days of its completion.
Contents of Contracts of Employment
P.8.
Contracts of employment between a Club and a Manager shall:
P.8.1.
include the standard clauses set out in Appendix 7;
P.8.2. clearly set out the circumstances in which the contract of employment may be
determined by either party.
Meetings Re Refereeing Matters
P.9.
All Managers are required to attend in person an annual pre-Season meeting organised by
the League or the Professional Game Match Officials Limited and failure to do so without just
cause shall be a breach of these Rules.
P.10.
Each Club shall ensure that its Contract Players attend an annual meeting organised by the
League or the Professional Game Match Officials Limited at the Club. Failure to attend (in the
case of a Contract Player) or to take reasonable steps to ensure attendance (in the case of a
Club) without just cause shall be a breach of these Rules.
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SECTION P: MANAGERS
Broadcasters and Media
P.11.
Disputes
P.12.
Any dispute arising between the parties to a Managers contract shall be dealt with under the
procedures set out in Section Y of these Rules (Managers Arbitration Tribunal).
Assistant Manager/Head Coach
P.13.
A Club which applies for a UEFA Licence must, in addition to employing a Manager, employ
an individual (such as an assistant manager or head coach) to assist the Manager in all
football matters relating to the first team.
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Each Manager shall when requested to do so attend in person and participate in the
interviews, press conferences and other activity required of Managers pursuant to Section K
of these Rules and failure to do so without just cause shall be a breach of these Rules. Such
interviews shall not be arranged in such a manner as to interfere with the Managers primary
matchday responsibilities as regards team matters.
CLUBS: OPERATIONS
SECTION Q: SCOUTS
Definition
PREMIER LEAGUE RULES: SECTION Q
A
Q.1.
Rules Q.1 to Q.8 shall not apply to a Scout whose duties are solely to identify to his Club
Academy Players whose registration the Club may wish to secure (Youth Development Rules
224 to 236 being applicable to such Scouts).
Registration of Scouts
Q.2.
The Secretary shall keep a register of Scouts.
Q.3.
Each Club upon employing or engaging a Scout shall within 5 days thereof apply to register
him by duly completing Form 16, entering the appropriate information on the Extranet and
submitting to the Secretary a copy of the document by which, in accordance with Rule J.2,
the Club binds the Scout to comply with these Rules.
Q.4.
The Secretary shall register a Scout and shall notify the applicant Club to that effect upon
being satisfied that:
Q.4.1.
the Club has complied with Rule Q.3 above; and
Q.4.2. the Scout the subject of the application is not currently registered as the Scout of
another Club.
Q.5.
Except during the period of 5 days mentioned in Rule Q.3 above, no Club shall employ a
Scout who is not registered under the provisions of this Section of these Rules unless it has
made an application to register him which has yet to be determined.
Q.6.
Upon a Club ceasing to employ or engage a registered Scout it shall within 5 days thereof give
notice to that effect in Form 17 to the Secretary who shall thereupon remove the name of
such Scout from the register.
Identification of Scouts
Q.7.
Each Club shall issue to each of its registered Scouts a formal means of identification which
shall include:
Q.7.1.
the name of the Club by which it is issued; and
Q.7.2.
the signature of an Authorised Signatory of the issuing club; and
Q.7.3.
a photograph of the Scout; and
Q.7.4.
the Scouts signature.
Code of Conduct
Q.8.
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Scouts shall conduct themselves in accordance with the Code of Conduct for Scouts set out
in Appendix 8 and any failure to do so shall constitute a breach of this Rule.
SECTION Q: SCOUTS
PREMIER LEAGUE RULES: SECTION Q
A
175
CLUBS: OPERATIONS
SECTION R: CUSTOMER RELATIONS
Supporter Liaison
PREMIER LEAGUE RULES: SECTION A
R
R.1.
Each Club shall employ an Official or Officials whose responsibilities shall include:
R.1.1. responsibility for the delivery of the Clubs policy with regard to its stakeholders
insofar as that policy concerns supporters; and
R.1.2.
acting as a point of contact for supporters; and
R.1.3. liaising regularly with the Clubs management (including without prejudice to the
generality of the foregoing, on safety and security related issues).
Requirement for Customer Charter
R.2.
Each Club shall have a written customer charter in which shall be set out its policy with
regard to ticketing, merchandise and its relations with its supporters, season ticket holders,
shareholders, sponsors, local authority and others having an interest in the activities of the
Club (together in this Section of these Rules called stakeholders).
R.3.
A copy of its customer charter and any amendments made thereto shall be furnished to the
League by each Club and shall be made available to the public.
Reporting
R.4.
Each Club shall:
R.4.1. submit a report annually to the League during the Close Season describing how
each of its said policies has been implemented and the extent to which each has
been achieved;
R.4.2.
comply promptly with any request for information made by the League.
Ticketing
R.5.
A Clubs ticketing policy should:
R.5.1. provide general information to the public about ticket availability and pricing,
giving the earliest possible notice of any changes and the reasons therefore:
R.5.2. aim to promote greater accessibility by the adoption of flexible and imaginative
ticketing schemes;
R.5.3. facilitate wider access to matches by the public by allowing for a broad range of
ticket prices, the more expensive effectively subsidising the cheapest;
R.5.4. allow for a reduction in the price of tickets for seats with a restricted view of the pitch;
R.5.5. adopt a system of concessionary ticket prices tailored to the needs of the local
community;
R.5.6. give details of the availability of seating for disabled spectators and their carers
and the pricing policy in relation thereto;
R.5.7.
set out particulars of any membership, loyalty, bond, debenture or similar
scheme;
R.5.8. make available a method of payment for season tickets by instalments at
competitive rates of interest;
R.5.9. promote the availability of match tickets by reserving a reasonable proportion (at
least 5 per cent.) of them for sale to non-season ticket holders;
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SECTION R: CUSTOMER RELATIONS
R.5.10.
R.5.11.
deal with the return and distribution of unwanted tickets;
include the following provisions in respect of abandoned matches:
R.5.11.2. abandonment after kick-off - half price admission to the rearranged
match;
R.5.12.
refer to the obligations set out in Rules R.6 to R.12 below.
R.6.
Each Club shall provide an area of its Stadium for the exclusive use of family groups and junior
supporters.
R.7.
Concessionary prices must be available for:
R.8.
R.7.1.
senior citizens; and
R.7.2.
junior supporters.
Unless otherwise agreed by the Board or between the Clubs, and subject to Rule R.9, each
Home Club shall make available to its Visiting Club:
R.8.1. 3,000 tickets or, if the capacity of the Home Clubs Stadium is less than 30,000,
such number of tickets as is equal to 10 per cent. of its Stadium capacity; and,
whether or not that allocation is taken up;
R.8.2. tickets for a minimum of 10 per cent. of the Home Clubs disabled spectator
accommodation.
R.9.
The tickets referred to in Rule R.8 shall be made available to the Visiting Club in blocks
corresponding to the blocks of seating (Seating Block) in the area of the Home Clubs
Stadium for visiting supporters, such blocks to be designated by reference to the points at
which segregation of home and away supporters can occur. There shall be no maximum or
minimum number of seats in a Seating Block and any question as to the size of a Seating
Block or the location of a segregation point shall be determined by the Board.
R.10.
The Visiting Club:
R.10.1. may order and sell tickets on a sequential Seating Block by Seating Block basis (the
sequence of release of Seating Blocks to the Visiting Club to be determined by the
Home Club);
R.10.2. must confirm its final order of tickets (subject to the conditions set out in Rule
R.11) at least 4 weeks before the League Match to which they relate; and
R.10.3. shall pay for the entirety of the tickets so ordered save that it may return (and not
pay for) any unsold tickets in the final Seating Block for which it ordered tickets if
it has sold 50% of the tickets in that Seating Block.
R.11.
Unless otherwise agreed, the provision by a Home Club of tickets for sale by a Visiting Club
shall be conditional upon:
R.11.1. the Visiting Club making the tickets available for purchase by the later of either 3
working days after receipt from the Home Club or the date that is 4 weeks before
the date of the fixture;
R.11.2. any unsold tickets being returned by the Visiting Club to the Home Club not later
than 10 days before the date fixed for the League Match to which they relate;
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R
R.5.11.1. abandonment after spectators admitted to the Stadium but before
kick-off - free admission to the rearranged match;
SECTION R: CUSTOMER RELATIONS
PREMIER LEAGUE RULES: SECTION A
R
R.11.3. the proceeds of tickets sold and the value (to be pro rata to the number of adult
and concessionary tickets actually sold by the Visiting Club) of any unsold tickets
not returned as aforesaid being paid by the Visiting Club to the Home Club within
4 days of the League Match taking place;
R.11.4. the Visiting Club paying to the Home Club daily interest at the rate of 5 per cent.
per annum over the base rate for the time being of Barclays Bank Plc on any
amount not paid in accordance with Rule R.11.3.
R.12.
A Home Club shall not charge admission prices to supporters of a Visiting Club which are
higher than those charged to its own supporters for comparable accommodation and in
particular concessionary rates offered to senior citizens and junior supporters shall apply to
supporters of a Visiting Club.
R.13.
Each Club shall submit to the League details of its season ticket prices and ticket prices for
individual League Matches upon announcing the same publicly.
Merchandise
R.14.
A Clubs merchandising policy should:
R.14.1. allow for market research to be undertaken with regard to the frequency of Strip
changes and to its design;
R.14.2. identify the intervals at which Strip changes are intended to take place and the
date of the next intended change;
R.14.3.
provide for swing tickets attached to replica Strip to state its launch date;
R.14.4. refer to the effect on the consumer of the obligations set out in Rules R.16 to R.19
below.
R.15.
Any numbers, lettering, badges and logos appearing on replica Strip shall be of the same
style, colour and design as those appearing on Players Strip currently registered as required
by Rule M.17.
R.16.
In any future contract to license a manufacturer to produce for retail sale replica Strip, each
Club shall include the standard clauses set out in Appendix 9.
R.17.
Upon a Promoted Club becoming a member of the League in accordance with the provisions
of Rule B.5, it shall give notice to any manufacturer licensed to manufacture and distribute its
replica Strip in the terms set out in Appendix 10 and request such manufacturer to convey
the substance of the notice to its dealers forthwith and advise them that:
R.17.1. they are free to sell, advertise and display for sale replica Strip supplied by such
manufacturer at whatever price they may choose; and that
R.17.2. they should inform the Office of Fair Trading if they are concerned that a minimum
resale price is being imposed.
R.18.
178
No Club shall cause or procure any manufacturer with which it has a licensing agreement for
the manufacture of replica Strip to do any act or cause to be done anything which would
constitute a breach of the standard clauses referred to in Rule R.16.
SECTION R: CUSTOMER RELATIONS
R.19.
Each Club shall provide the Director General of Fair Trading with such information as he may
need in order to satisfy himself that Rules R.16 to R.18 above have been complied with.
Relations with Stakeholders
A Clubs policy with regard to its stakeholders should:
R.20.1.
provide for consultation with them on a regular basis through forums,
questionnaires and focus groups and by the publication of current policies on
major issues in an easily digested format;
R.20.2. promote supporter and community liaison and provide for the establishment of
liaison structures where none exist.
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R.20.
SECTION S: THE SAFEGUARDING OF VULNERABLE GROUPS
AND SAFER RECRUITMENT
Definitions
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SECTION A
S
S.1.
In this Section of these Rules:
S.1.1.
Activity means any activity or series of activities arranged for a Child, Children
or a Vulnerable Adult or Adults by or in the name of a Club;
S.1.2.
Adult at Risk means an adult who is or may be in need of community care
services by reason of mental or other disability, age or illness and who is, or may
be, unable to take care of him or herself, or unable to protect himself against
significant harm or exploitation;
S.1.3.
Adults at Risk Safeguarding Manager means the member of Staff whose
responsibilities are set out in Rule S.12.
S.1.4.
Adults at Risk Safeguarding Officer has the meaning set out in Rule S.14.10;
S.1.5.
Child and Children mean any person or persons under the age of 18 years;
S.1.6.
Childrens Safeguarding Officer has the meaning set out in Rule S.10.11;
S.1.7.
Childrens Safeguarding Manager means the member of Staff whose
responsibilities are set out in Rule S.7;
S.1.8.
DBS means the Disclosure and Barring Service, being a non-departmental
public body of the Home Office which, amongst other things, processes requests
for criminal records checks and barred list information, or any successor body
which carries out its functions.
S.1.9.
Disclosure means the service provided by the DBS to Persons registered with it.
S.1.10. Local Authority Designated Officer means the officer designated by the local
authority in which the Club is situated to manage allegations of Child abuse;
S.1.11.
NSPCC Standards means the Standards for Safeguarding and Protecting
Children in Sport promoted by the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty
to Children;
S.1.12.
Parent means a person who has parental responsibility for the Child;
S.1.13.
Search and Intervention Steward means a steward employed by a Club who
regularly carries out, or who supervises those who carry out, either of the
following duties in an area of the Clubs Stadium covered by a premises licence
granted under the Licensing Act 2003:
S.1.13.1. the search of spectators on their entry to the ground; or
S.1.13.2. the intervention against or ejection of spectators;
S.1.14.
Staff means any employee of a Club or volunteer:
S.1.14.1. employed in any Activity on behalf of or with the authorisation of the
Club, who has direct contact with a Child, Children or a Vulnerable Adult
or Adults in the course of that Activity; or
S.1.14.2. (for the purposes of Rules S.24 and S.25) employed as a Search and
Intervention Steward;
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SECTION S: THE SAFEGUARDING OF VULNERABLE GROUPS
AND SAFER RECRUITMENT
Clubs Policies and Procedures for the Safeguarding of Children and Adults at Risk
Each Club shall prepare, implement, review regularly and have reviewed by its local authority
written policy and procedures for the safeguarding of Children.
S.3.
The Clubs policy and procedures for the safeguarding of Children shall:
S.3.1. be in accordance with this Section of these Rules and shall have regard to
Appendix 13 to these Rules; and
S.3.2.
meet the NSPCC Standards.
S.4.
Each Club shall prepare, implement, review regularly and have reviewed by its local authority
written policy and procedures for the safeguarding of Adults at Risk.
S.5.
The Clubs policy and procedures for the safeguarding of Adults at Risk shall be in accordance
with this Section of the Rules and shall have regard to any guidance or policy published by the
League.
Childrens Safeguarding Manager
S.6.
Each Club shall designate a member of staff as the Childrens Safeguarding Manager.
S.7.
The Childrens Safeguarding Manager shall be responsible for all arrangements for the
safeguarding of Children undertaking any Activity and any sign or suspicion of abuse relating
to Child shall be reported to him.
S.8.
The name of the Childrens Safeguarding Manager shall be notified by the Club to the League
in Form 18.
S.9.
Each Childrens Safeguarding Manager and Safeguarding Officer shall:
S.9.1.
be trained in safeguarding of Children issues and procedures;
S.9.2.
be given a job description which shall properly record their responsibilities; and
S.9.3. undertake in each calendar year continuing professional development training in
the safeguarding of Children approved by the League and maintain a record
thereof.
S.10.
Each Childrens Safeguarding Manager shall:
S.10.1. liaise regularly with and be guided by the advice of the local authority with regard
to issues concerning the safeguarding of Children;
S.10.2. liaise and co-operate with the Local Authority Designated Officer as may from
time to time be necessary;
S.10.3.
ensure strict compliance with the Clubs policy and procedures for the
safeguarding of Children;
S.10.4. promote awareness in the Club of safeguarding of Children issues generally and
encourage and monitor the adoption of best practice procedures in that regard;
S.10.5. report on a regular basis on the effectiveness of, and the Clubs compliance with,
its policies and procedures for the safeguarding of Children to a named member
of the Clubs senior management who shall act as the Childrens Safeguarding
Managers line manager;
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S.2.
SECTION S: THE SAFEGUARDING OF VULNERABLE GROUPS
AND SAFER RECRUITMENT
S.10.6.
act as the lead Club Official in any investigation of an allegation of Child abuse;
S.10.7. maintain the safeguarding of Children Staff register for each Activity in Form 19
(or in any other appropriate and sufficient format);
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S.10.8. be made known to all Staff, and (by publication of his name and contact details on
the Clubs website and in any handbook or the like which the Club produces to
accompany any Activity) to children and parents of children engaged in each
Activity and be available in person or by telephone to Staff and to such children
and parents at all reasonable times;
S.10.9. provide written instructions to Staff engaged in each Activity in respect of good
practice and what they are required to do if they detect any sign of Child abuse or
if they suspect Child abuse is taking place;
S.10.10. provide guidance to and support for any member of Staff engaged in each Activity
who reports suspected Child abuse;
S.10.11. in relation to a specific Activity, if appropriate, delegate any of the responsibilities
listed in S.10.7 to S.10.10 to another member of Staff (the Childrens Safeguarding
Officer) and supervise the Childrens Safeguarding Officer;
S.10.12. ensure that Childrens Safeguarding Officers are properly trained, supported and
supervised including, without limitation, by way of regular, minuted meetings
with each Childrens Safeguarding Officer.
Guidance
With regard to Rule S.10.11 above, Clubs attention is drawn to Youth Development Rule 185 which requires that an
Academy Safeguarding Officer must be appointed to undertake the functions set out in Rule S.10.4 with regard to the
Academy.
Adults at Risk Safeguarding Manager
S.11.
Each Club shall designate a member of Staff as the Adults at Risk Safeguarding Manager.
S.12.
The Adults at Risk Safeguarding Manager shall be responsible for all arrangements for the
safeguarding of Adults at Risk undertaking any Activity and any sign or suspicion of abuse of
Adults at Risk shall be reported to them.
S.13.
The name of the Adults at Risk Safeguarding Manager shall be notified by the Club to the
League in Form 20.
S.14.
Each Adults at Risk Safeguarding Manager shall:
S.14.1.
liaise regularly with and be guided by the advice of the local authority with regard
to issues concerning the safeguarding of Adults at Risk;
S.14.2.
ensure strict compliance with the Clubs policy and procedures for the
safeguarding of Adults at Risk;
S.14.3. promote awareness in the Club of safeguarding of Adults at Risk issues generally
and encourage and monitor the adoption of best practice procedures in that
regard;
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SECTION S: THE SAFEGUARDING OF VULNERABLE GROUPS
AND SAFER RECRUITMENT
S.14.4. report on a regular basis on the effectiveness of, and the Clubs compliance with,
its policies and procedures for the safeguarding of Adults at Risk to a named
member of Clubs senior management who shall act as the Adults at Risk
Safeguarding Managers line manager;
S.14.6. maintain the safeguarding of Adults at Risk Staff register for each Activity in Form
21 (or in any other appropriate and sufficient format);
S.14.7. be made known to all Staff, and (by publication of his name and contact details on
the Clubs website and in any handbook or the like which the Club produces to
accompany any Activity) to Adults at Risk and carers of Adults at Risk engaged in
each Activity and be available in person or by telephone to Staff and to such
Adults at Risk and carers at all reasonable times;
S.14.8. provide written instructions to Staff engaged in each Activity in respect of good
practice and what they are required to do if they detect any sign of abuse of an
Adult at Risk or if they suspect such abuse is taking place;
S.14.9. provide guidance to and support for any member of Staff engaged in an Activity
who reports suspected abuse of an Adult at Risk;
S.14.10. in relation to a specific Activity, if appropriate, delegate any of their responsibilities
to another member of Staff (the Adults at Risk Safeguarding Officer); and
S.14.11. ensure that Adults at Risk Safeguarding Officers are properly trained, supported
and supervised including, without limitation, by way of regular, minuted meetings
with each Adults at Risk Safeguarding Officer.
S.15.
Each Adults at Risk Safeguarding Manager and Adults at Risk Safeguarding Officer shall:
S.15.1.
be given a job description which shall properly record their responsibilities;
S.15.2.
be trained in safeguarding of Adults at Risk issues and procedures; and
S.15.3. undertake in each calendar year continuing professional development training in
the safeguarding of Adults at Risk approved by the League and maintain a record
thereof.
Staff
S.16.
Staff shall in all dealings with and on behalf of Children or Adults at Risk do what is reasonable
in the circumstances of the case for the purpose of safeguarding or promoting the safety and
welfare of the Child or Adult at Risk.
S.17.
Each member of Staff shall be given training in the Clubs policies and procedures for the
safeguarding of Children and Adults at Risk.
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S.14.5. act as the lead Club Official in any investigation of an allegation of abuse of an
Adult at Risk;
SECTION S: THE SAFEGUARDING OF VULNERABLE GROUPS
AND SAFER RECRUITMENT
S.18.
Each member of Staff shall be given in writing:
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S
S.18.1. the name of the Clubs Childrens Safeguarding Manager and Adults at Risk
Safeguarding Manager;
S.18.2. descriptions of what constitutes unsuitable behaviour to a Child or Adult at Risk
and abuse of a Child or Adult at Risk; and
S.18.3. details of what he is required to do if there is any sign of unsuitable behaviour to a
Child or Adult at Risk or abuse of a Child or Adult at Risk or if there is a suspicion
that such abuse is taking place.
Parental Consent
S.19.
The written consent of a Childs Parent shall be obtained:
S.19.1. before the Child participates in an Activity by the Parent completing and returning
to the Childrens Safeguarding Manager for the Activity Form 22; and
S.19.2. if the Child is under the age of 16, before any images or footage of him are taken
or used.
Notification of Referrals to External Statutory Agencies
S.20.
On making any referral of an allegation of or incident of suspected abuse of or unsuitable
behaviour to a Child or Adult at Risk to any external agency (including without limitation the
police, the local authority or the DBS), the Safeguarding Manager or other Official making
the referral shall notify the Clubs most senior administrative officer in writing.
S.21.
The Club shall notify the League and the Football Association in Form 23 of, and give the
League and the Football Association such further information as they may require in respect of:
S.21.1.
any referral it has made to any external agency (as described in Rule S.20); and
S.21.2. any investigation by such an external agency into suspected abuse of or unsuitable
behaviour to a Child or Adult at Risk involved in an Activity by or in the name of
the Club of which the Club becomes aware, whether such investigation results
from a referral made pursuant to Rule S.21.1 or otherwise.
Monitoring
S.22.
The League will monitor Clubs to ensure compliance with this Section of these Rules and will
procure that each Club is visited at least twice each Season by a person appointed for this
purpose by the League. Such person shall be entitled to have access to all records kept in
accordance with the requirements of this Section of these Rules and shall be entitled to meet
Staff, parents, Children, Adults at Risk and carers.
S.23.
Such person shall:
S.23.1. give written feedback to the Club concerned on each monitoring visit made, and
if appropriate agree with the Club an action plan setting out actions to be taken
by the Club to ensure compliance with Rules S.1 to S.23;
S.23.2.
report on each visit in writing to the League; and
S.23.3. at the end of each Season or as soon as practicable thereafter, present to the
League and the Club a written annual report on the Clubs compliance with Rules
S.1 to S.23.
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SECTION S: THE SAFEGUARDING OF VULNERABLE GROUPS
AND SAFER RECRUITMENT
Disclosure and Barring Service
The League will undertake all matters connected with the use of the Disclosure service for
those Clubs not registered with the DBS.
S.25.
Clubs not registered with the DBS agree to be bound by any guidance published by the
League from time to time.
S.26.
Each Club shall nominate an Official to:
S.26.1. act as the Clubs principal point of contact with the League on all matters
connected with the use of the Disclosure service and the Club shall notify his
name to the League in Form 24; and
S.26.2. (if the Club is not registered with the DBS) ensure that the League (or its appointee)
is provided with any information it may require in connection with a Disclosure
application by a person seeking appointment or confirmation of appointment as
an Official of or volunteer with the Club.
S.27.
The lead disclosure officer of a Club registered with the DBS:
S.27.1.
shall countersign the Clubs application to register with the DBS;
S.27.2.
may countersign Disclosure applications;
S.27.3. will act as the Clubs principal point of contact with the DBS on all matters
connected with the registration and use of the Disclosure service.
S.28.
Each Club shall nominate one or more Officials (who may be the Childrens Safeguarding
Manager or a Safeguarding Officer) as countersignatories who (in the case of a Club registered
with the DBS) may countersign Disclosure applications and (in the case of all Clubs) carry out
the procedures set out in Rule S.30.
S.29.
Subject to Rule S.31, no person shall be appointed as a member of Staff unless:
S.29.1.
he has completed and submitted to the Club a written application; and
S.29.2. a written reference has been obtained by the Club from at least two referees
named in the application; and
S.29.3.
he has applied to the DBS for Disclosure; and
S.29.4. his Disclosure information has been received and the Club is satisfied that he is
not unsuitable to work with Children or as a Search and Intervention Steward as
the case may be; and
S.29.5. his particulars have been entered in the staff register in Form 19 kept and
maintained at the Club.
S.30.
Upon an application for Disclosure being made by a person seeking appointment or
confirmation of his appointment as a member of Staff, the lead disclosure officer or a
countersignatory shall:
S.30.1. determine, in accordance with any guidance published by the DBS or by the
League, the level of Disclosure information to be sought in respect of that person;
and
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S.24.
SECTION S: THE SAFEGUARDING OF VULNERABLE GROUPS
AND SAFER RECRUITMENT
S.30.2. carry out such identity checks on that person as may be required pursuant to the
guidance described in Rule S.30; and
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S.30.3. complete and submit that persons application to the DBS or to the League (in the
case of a Club not registered with the DBS); and
S.30.4. receive the Disclosure information from the DBS or from the League (in the case
of a Club not registered with the DBS) in respect of that person; and
S.30.5. report the content of that Disclosure information to the Official responsible for
deciding whether that person shall be appointed or have his appointment
confirmed.
S.31.
186
Between the date upon which his application to the DBS for Disclosure is received and the
date upon which the procedures set out in Rule S.30 are completed, a person to whom that
Rule applies may be permitted to take up his position as a member of Staff at the discretion
of the Clubs lead countersignatory so long as he is accompanied by a member of Staff in
respect of whom the Rule S.30 procedures have been complied with.
SECTION S: THE SAFEGUARDING OF VULNERABLE GROUPS
AND SAFER RECRUITMENT
PREMIER
PREMIER LEAGUE
LEAGUE RULES:
RULES: SECTION
SECTION A
S
187
PLAYERS CONTRACTS, REGISTRATIONS AND TRANSFERS
SECTION T: PLAYERS CONTRACTS
Approaches to Players
PREMIER LEAGUE RULES: SECTION A
T
T.1.
A Club shall be at liberty at any time to make an approach to a Player with a view to
negotiating a contract with such a Player:
T.1.1.
if he is an Out of Contract Player; or
T.1.2. in the case of a Contract Player, with the prior written consent of the Club (or club)
to which he is contracted.
T.2.
A Club shall be at liberty after the third Saturday in May in any year and before the 1st July
next following to make such an approach to a Contract Player:
T.2.1.
who will become an Out of Contract Player on that 1st July; and
T.2.2.
who has received no offer from his Club under Rule V.17.2; or
T.2.3.
who has received but has declined such offer.
T.3.
Any Club which by itself, by any of its Officials, by any of its Players, by its Agent, by any other
Person on its behalf or by any other means whatsoever makes an approach either directly or
indirectly to a Contract Player except as permitted by either Rule T.1.2 or Rule T.2 shall be in
breach of these Rules and may be dealt with under the provisions of Section W of these Rules
(Disciplinary).
T.4.
For the purposes of Rules T.2 and T.3, Contract Player shall include a player who has
entered into a written contract of employment with a Football League club.
Approaches by Players
T.5.
An Out of Contract Player, or any Person on his behalf, shall be at liberty at any time to make
an approach to a Club (or club) with a view to negotiating a contract with such Club (or club).
T.6.
Subject to Rule T.7, a Contract Player, either by himself or by any Person on his behalf, shall
not either directly or indirectly make any such approach as is referred to in Rule T.5 without
having obtained the prior written consent of his Club.
T.7.
After the third Saturday in May in any year and before the 1st July next following a Contract
Player to whom Rule T.2 applies or any Person on his behalf may make such an approach as
is referred to in Rule T.5.
Public Statements
T.8.
A statement made publicly by or on behalf of a Club expressing interest in acquiring the
registration of a Contract Player or by a Contract Player expressing interest in transferring his
registration to another Club (or club) shall in either case be treated as an indirect approach
for the purposes of Rules T.3 and T.6.
Inducements
T.9.
Except as may be provided in a Players contract:
T.9.1. no Club shall induce or attempt to induce a Player to sign a contract by directly or
indirectly offering him or any Person connected with him or his Agent a benefit or
payment of any description whether in cash or in kind;
T.9.2. no Player shall either directly or indirectly accept or cause or permit his Agent to
accept any such offer as is described in this Rule.
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SECTION T: PLAYERS CONTRACTS
Form of Contract
T.10.
Save for any contracts entered into by a Promoted Club before it became a member of the
League which are in Form 25, contracts between Clubs and Players shall be in Form 26.
T.11.
Subject to the exceptions set out below, a contract between a Club and a Player may be for
any period provided that its expiry date is 30th June. The exceptions to this Rule are:
T.11.1. contracts with Contract Players under the age of 18 years which must not be
capable of lasting for more than 3 years;
T.12.
T.11.2.
monthly contracts;
T.11.3.
Week by Week Contracts.
A Player under the age of 17 years may not enter into a contract of employment with a Club
and may only be registered as an Academy Player.
Players Remuneration
T.13.
Full details of a Players remuneration including all benefits to which he is entitled whether in
cash or in kind shall be set out in his contract.
T.14.
The terms of a contract between a Club and a Player shall be strictly adhered to.
T.15.
If any Club acts in breach of Rule E.20, in addition to any penalty imposed under the
provisions of Section W of these Rules (Disciplinary), the Board shall have power to refuse
any application by that Club to register any Player until the breach has been remedied.
Signing-on Fees
T.16.
A Signing-on Fee may be paid only to a Contract Player whose contract:
T.16.1.
is for a period of not less than 3 months; and
T.16.2.
is not a monthly contract or a Conditional Contract or a Week by Week Contract.
T.17.
In the case of a contract between a Club and a Player lasting for more than one year, any
Signing-on Fee shall be paid in equal annual instalments.
T.18.
If the registration of a Contract Player is transferred when any part of his Signing-on Fee
remains unpaid, a sum equal to the unpaid balance thereof shall be paid to him forthwith by
the Transferor Club unless:
T.18.1. the transfer is consequent upon the Contract Players contract having been
terminated by the Transferor Club
T.18.2. the transfer is consequent upon the Contract Players written request to that
effect; or
T.18.3. the Board on the application of either the Transferor Club or the Contract Player
otherwise decides and either party may appeal to the Premier League Appeals
Committee against the decision of the Board in this respect in accordance with
the provisions of Section Z of these Rules.
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PREMIER LEAGUE RULES: SECTION A
T
Length of Contract
SECTION T: PLAYERS CONTRACTS
Lump Sum Payments
PREMIER LEAGUE RULES: SECTION A
T
T.19.
Unless otherwise agreed by the Board, no lump sum payment shall be paid or payable by a
Club to a Player during the first year of his employment as a Contract Player with that Club
save for:
T.19.1.
a Signing-on Fee (which must be paid in accordance with rules T.16 to T.18); or
T.19.2. a sum paid in respect of the players relocation expenses not exceeding the
amount from time to time permitted by HM Revenue Customs to be paid for this
purpose without income tax and national insurance liability.
Image Contracts
T.20.
Particulars of any Image Contract Payment in respect of the Player shall be set out in the
contract with his Club.
Signing the Contract
T.21.
A contract between a Club and a Player shall be signed in each case in the presence of a
witness by:
T.21.1.
the Player;
T.21.2.
the Players Parent if the Player is under the age of 18 years; and
T.21.3.
an Authorised Signatory on behalf of the Club.
Reporting Fines etc.
T.22.
A copy of any notice terminating a Players contract, whether given by the Club or the Player,
and any notice given by a Club imposing a fine on a Player or suspending him shall be sent
forthwith by the Club to the League and to the Football Association.
Submission to Secretary
T.23.
A Club shall request each Contract Player (or if he is a minor his parent) to complete Form 27
at the same time that he signs his first contract with the Club. If he does, the Club shall
submit the completed Form 27 to the Secretary when it submits a copy of the contract
pursuant to Rule T.24.
T.24.
Subject to the provisions of Rules U.17, U.19, U.21 and V.11.3, Clubs shall submit to the
Secretary copies of all contracts with Players within 5 days of their being entered into.
Mutual Termination
T.25.
If the parties thereto agree to terminate a Players contract before its expiry date they shall
forthwith notify the Football Association and the Secretary to that effect.
T.26.
A Club shall be at liberty at any time to reach agreement with a Contract Player to amend the
terms of his contract. If such an agreement increases the Contract Players remuneration
then, unless the agreement is made in the Close Season, it shall be a term thereof that the
Contract Players current contract is extended by a minimum of one year.
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SECTION T: PLAYERS CONTRACTS
Appeal against Termination
T.27.
Appeal against Disciplinary Decision
T.28.
An appeal by a Player under the provisions of clause 18 of Form 25 or paragraph 3.3.2 of
Schedule 1, Part 1, of Form 26 shall be commenced by notice in writing addressed to the Club
and to the Secretary.
T.29.
Appeals pursuant to Rule T.27 or Rule T.28 shall be conducted in such manner as the Board
may determine.
T.30.
The Board may allow or dismiss any such appeal and make such other order as it thinks fit.
Disputes between Clubs and Players
T.31.
Any dispute or difference between a Club and a Player not otherwise expressly provided for
in these Rules may be referred in writing by either party to the Board for consideration and
adjudication in such manner as the Board may think fit. For the purpose of this Rule only,
Player shall include one who was formerly employed by the Club with which the dispute or
difference has arisen, whether or not he has been registered to play for another Club.
Orders for Costs
T.32.
The Board shall have power to make an order for costs:
T.32.1.
in determining appeals under Rule T.27 or Rule T.28; and
T.32.2.
in making an adjudication under Rule T.31; and
T.32.3. if any proceedings under Rule T.27 or Rule T.28 or Rule T.31, having been
commenced, are withdrawn.
T.33.
The Board shall have power to determine the amount of any such costs which may include,
without limitation, those incurred by the League in the conduct of the proceedings.
T.34.
The Board shall have the power, at any time during the proceedings, to order one or several
interim or final payments on account of the costs of the League.
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PREMIER LEAGUE RULES: SECTION A
T
An appeal by a Player under the provisions of clause 16 of Form 25 or clause 10.3 of Form 26
or by a Club under the provisions of clause 17 of Form 25 or clause 11.2 of Form 26 shall be
commenced by notice in writing addressed to the other party to the contract and to the
Secretary.
SECTION T: PLAYERS CONTRACTS
PREMIER LEAGUE RULES: SECTION A
T
T.35.
Costs ordered to be paid as aforesaid shall be recoverable:
T.35.1.
in the case of a Club, under the provisions of Rule E.25; or
T.35.2.
in any other case, as a civil debt.
Appeal
T.36.
Within 14 days of a decision of the Board given under the provisions of either Rule T.30 or
Rule T.31 either party may by notice in writing appeal against such decision to the Premier
League Appeals Committee whose decision shall be final.
Effect of Termination
T.37.
Upon the termination of a Players contract by a Club under the provisions of clause 16 of
Form 25 or clause 10.1 of Form 26 becoming operative or upon the termination by a Player
of his contract with his Club under the provisions of clause 17 of Form 25 or clause 11.1 of
Form 26 becoming operative, the Club shall forthwith release the Players registration.
T.38.
Except in the case of a Retired Player to whom the provisions of Rule U.29.5 apply, upon a
Players contract being terminated by mutual consent, his Club shall retain the Players
registration for such period (if any) and on such terms (if any) as the parties may in writing
agree. Should the Player sign for another Club (or Football League club) during that period,
that Club (or Football League club) shall pay to the Club retaining the registration a
compensation fee determined, in default of agreement, by the Professional Football
Compensation Committee.
Testimonial Matches
T.39.
192
Notwithstanding that it has no contractual obligation to do so, a Club in its absolute
discretion and with the prior written consent of the Board may, in the case of a Player who
has completed 10 or more years in its service as such, permit its Stadium to be used without
charge for the purposes of a testimonial match.
SECTION T: PLAYERS CONTRACTS
PREMIER LEAGUE RULES: SECTION A
T
193
PLAYERS: CONTRACTS, REGISTRATIONS AND TRANSFERS
SECTION U: PLAYERS REGISTRATIONS
Requirement for Registration
PREMIER LEAGUE RULES: SECTION A
U
U.1.
A Player shall not play for a Club in a League Match unless that Club holds his registration
(which shall include, in the circumstances set out in Rules U.3 and U.12, confirmation that he
is eligible to play for it) with effect from at least 75 minutes before kick-off and for League
Matches to be played between the close of the First Transfer Window and the end of the
Season either:
U.1.1.
his name is included on the Squad List; or
U.1.2.
he is an Under 21 Player.
U.2.
A Club shall be deemed to hold the registration of a Player upon receipt of the Leagues
confirmation by email to that effect.
U.3.
If a loan of a Player (whether by Temporary Transfer or otherwise) is cancelled by mutual
consent, the Player shall not play for the Club to which he is returning unless the League has
confirmed to that Club that the Player is eligible to play for it.
U.4.
A Club shall apply to:
U.4.1. include a Player on its Squad List by submitting to the Secretary the requisite
Form.
U.4.2. remove a Player from its Squad List by submitting to the Secretary the requisite
Form.
U.5.
A Player shall be deemed to have been included or removed from a Clubs Squad List on
receipt of the Secretarys written confirmation.
U.6.
Changes to a Squad List may be made:
U.6.1.
during the period of a Transfer Window; or
U.6.2.
at other times only with the permission of the Board.
U.7.
Each application to register a Player shall be subject to the approval of the Board.
U.8.
In addition to the forms and documents specifically required by these Rules, a Club shall
submit to the Secretary:
U.8.1. any contract it proposes to enter into which gives the Club or any other party to
the proposed contract any rights relating to the transfer of the registration of a
player at a date in the future from or to the Club or any rights relating to the
employment of the player by the Club; or
U.8.2. any contract it proposes to enter into, save for a Representation Contract or an
Image Contract, which gives the Club or any other party to the proposed contract
the right to receive payments in respect of a Player.
Any such proposed contract shall be subject to the approval of the Board. In deciding whether
to give such approval the Board shall have regard to (without limitation) Rules I.4 and I.7.
Types of Registration
U.9.
There shall be 4 types of registration governed by this Section of these Rules, namely:
U.9.1. amateur;
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SECTION U: PLAYERS REGISTRATIONS
U.9.2. contract;
U.9.3.
monthly contract; and
U.9.4. temporary.
The registration of Academy Players shall be governed by the Youth Development Rules.
International Transfer Certificate
U.11.
A Player who last played (or was last registered to play) for a club affiliated to a national
association other than that to which the Club which is applying to register him is affiliated
shall not be registered unless the League has received written confirmation from the Clubs
national association that an international transfer certificate has been issued in respect of
the Player.
U.12.
A Player who is the subject of a loan to a Club or club affiliated to a national association other
than that to which the loaning Club is affiliated may not play for the loaning Club following
the termination of the temporary transfer until the League has received written confirmation
from the Clubs national association that an international transfer certificate has been issued
in respect of his return to his Club, and the League has confirmed to the Club in writing
receipt thereof and that he is eligible to play for that Club.
Eligibility to work in the United Kingdom
U.13.
An application to register a Player shall be accompanied by such evidence as the League may
require to demonstrate that the Player may take up employment in the United Kingdom, and
the League shall not confirm that he is eligible to play for the Club applying to register him
until the League has received such evidence.
Registration Procedure
U.14.
For the purpose of this Section of these Rules the New Registration of a Player shall mean his
registration at a time when no other Club (or club) holds his registration either because no
previous application to register the Player has been made or because a previous registration
has been cancelled or has terminated or has expired.
U.15.
The New Registration of an Amateur Player shall be effected by completion of and submission
to the Secretary of Form 28 signed on behalf of the Club by an Authorised Signatory.
U.16.
The registration of an Amateur Player is not transferable.
U.17.
The New Registration of a Contract Player shall be effected by completion and submission to
the Secretary of a copy of the Players contract.
U.18.
The transfer of the registration of a Contract Player shall be effected in accordance with the
provisions of Rule V.11.
U.19.
The New Registration of a Contract Player on a monthly contract basis shall be effected by
completion of and submission to the Secretary of Football Association Form G(1), signed on
behalf of the Club by an Authorised Signatory, together with a copy of the Players contract.
U.20.
The transfer of the registration of a Contract Player on a monthly contract basis shall be
effected in accordance with the provisions of Rule V.11.
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U
U.10.
PREMIER LEAGUE RULES: SECTION A
U
SECTION U: PLAYERS REGISTRATIONS
U.21.
A monthly contract registration may be extended by one month by completion of and
submission to the Secretary of Football Association Form G(1) (Extension), signed on behalf
of the Club by an Authorised Signatory, and, if any changes to it have been made, a copy of
the Players contract.
U.22.
The Temporary Transfer of the registration of a Contract Player and any extension thereof
shall be effected in accordance with the provisions of Rules V.6 to V.10.
U.23.
Subject to the provisions of Rule V.1, the deadline for receipt by the Secretary of all duly
completed documents required by these Rules to effect the registration of a Player shall be
12 noon on the last Working Day before the date of the first League Match in which the Club
making the application intends him to play, save that the international transfer certificate
and evidence of eligibility to take up employment in the United Kingdom (in both cases if
applicable) may be provided thereafter (but must be provided before the Player is registered
by the League).
U.24.
A Club which transfers or cancels the registration of a Player may not apply to register that
Player within a year except with the prior written consent of the Board.
Multiplicity of Registrations
U.25.
A Player shall not apply to be registered by more than one Club (or club) at any one time and
the Secretary shall refuse any application made in breach of this Rule.
Monthly Registrations
U.26.
There shall be no limit to the number of times a monthly contract registration may be
extended under Rule U.21 provided that a Club intending to apply to extend the monthly
contract registration of a Player for a third or subsequent time shall give to the Player not less
than 7 days notice of its intention to do so.
U.27.
Notwithstanding the provisions of Rule V.1, a Club may apply at any time to extend a
monthly contract registration provided it has not been allowed to expire.
Termination of Registrations
U.28.
An amateur registration:
U.28.1. shall expire at the end of the Season in which it commenced;
U.28.2. may be terminated before its expiry by agreement to that effect between the
Club and the Player, such agreement to be notified in writing forthwith by the
Club to the Secretary;
U.28.3. may likewise be terminated by order of the Board on the application of either the
Club or the Player.
U.29.
Subject to the provisions of Rules T.37 and T.38, a contract registration shall terminate:
U.29.1. in the case of a Contract Player, upon it being transferred in accordance with Rule
V.11;
U.29.2. in the case of an Out of Contract Player in respect of whom the conditions set out
in Rule V.17 have been satisfied, upon a Transferee Club effecting his New
Registration;
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SECTION U: PLAYERS REGISTRATIONS
U.29.3. in the case of an Out of Contract Player in respect of whom the said conditions
have not been satisfied, upon the expiry of his contract;
U.29.4. in the case of a Contract Player, upon his contract being terminated on the ground
of his permanent incapacity;
New Registrations Requiring Consent
U.30.
An application for the New Registration of a Contract Player whose contract has been
terminated by a Club (or club) on the ground of his permanent incapacity shall be refused
unless that Club (or club) consents.
U.31.
An application for the New Registration of a Contract Player who has received a lump sum
disability benefit under the terms of the Leagues personal accident insurance scheme shall
be refused unless, upon being satisfied that the circumstances of such application are
exceptional, the Board consents.
List of Players
U.32.
Except as provided in Rules U.33 and U.34, after the second Transfer Window in each year
and on or before the third Saturday in May next following each Club shall confirm to the
Secretary:
U.32.1. whether the list of players provided to it for these purposes via the Extranet is
complete and accurate in all material particulars;
U.32.2. details of any players who are not included in the list referred to in Rule U.32.1 but
who should be so included;
U.32.3. in the case of each Contract Player whose registration it holds and whose contract
expires on the 30th June in that year, whether or not the Club has:
U.32.3.1. offered him a new contract under the provisions of Rule V.17.2; or
U.32.3.2. implemented any option provision in respect of him; and
U.32.4. in the case of each Academy Player whose registration it holds and with whom it
has entered into a Scholarship Agreement, whether or not the Club has:
U.32.4.1. (if the Academy Player is in the second year of his Scholarship
Agreement) given him written notice, pursuant to clause 4.2 of the
Scholarship Agreement, of the extension of the duration thereof by
one year; and
U.32.4.2. (if the Academy Player is in the second or third year of his Scholarship
Agreement) given him written notice, pursuant to clause 6.7 of the
Scholarship Agreement, of its intention to offer him a professional
contract as a Contract Player.
U.33.
The date by which each Club is required by Rule U.32 to give confirmation to the Secretary
shall be extended in the case of a Club which on the third Saturday in May in any year is still
participating in the F.A. Cup, [the UEFA Champions League or the UEFA Europe League] or has
yet to play a League Match the outcome of which could affect:
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PREMIER LEAGUE RULES: SECTION A
U
U.29.5. in the case of a Retired Player, on the expiry of a period of 30 months commencing
at the end of the Season in which he stops playing competitive football.
SECTION U: PLAYERS REGISTRATIONS
PREMIER LEAGUE RULES: SECTION A
U
U.33.1.
identification of the League Champions in accordance with Rule C.11; or
U.33.2.
identification of the Clubs to be relegated in accordance with Rule C.14; or
U.33.3.
qualification for a UEFA competition.
U.34.
In the circumstances mentioned in Rule U.33, the Club shall give the Secretary the
information required by Rule U.32 within 4 days of the last relevant F.A. Cup match, UEFA
Champions League or UEFA Europe League or League Match having been played.
U.35.
The particulars contained in Clubs lists of Players shall be published by the Secretary by the
second Saturday in June in each year.
Clubs Ceasing to be Members
U.36.
Upon a Club (in this Rule and Rule U.37 called the Former Member) ceasing to be a member
of the League under the provisions of Rule B.6 (other than by reason of its relegation from the
League in accordance with Rule C.14), the registrations of its Players (except those held in
consequence of a Temporary Transfer) shall vest in the League and thereupon the League
shall be at liberty to transfer those registrations as it shall think fit and shall receive any
Compensation Fees to which the Former Member would otherwise have been entitled under
the provisions of Section V of these Rules (Players Transfers of Registrations).
U.37.
Such Compensation Fees shall belong to the League and out of them the Board shall have
power to make a grant to either or both of
U.37.1.
any Club to which Compensation Fees are owed by the Former Member; and
U.37.2.
the Former Member.
Prohibition of Third Party Investment
U.38.
Unless otherwise agreed by the Board and subject to Rule U.39, a Club may only make or
receive a payment or incur any liability as a result of or in connection with the proposed or
actual registration (whether permanent or temporary), transfer of registration or
employment by it of a Player in the following circumstances:
U.38.1.
by payment to a Transferor Club or receipt from a Transferee Club of a
Compensation Fee, Contingent Sum, Loan Fee or sell-on fee;
U.38.2.
by payment of levy pursuant to Rule V.38 or Rule V.39;
U.38.3. by receipt of all or part of a Compensation Fee, Contingent Sum, Loan Fee or sellon fee, in default of payment of it by the Transferee Club from which it is due, from:
U.38.3.1. a financial institution or other guarantor; or
U.38.3.2. the League in accordance with the provisions of these Rules; or
U.38.3.3.
the Football League in accordance with the provisions of the
Regulations of the Football League;
U.38.4. by way of remuneration (including benefits in cash or kind and Image Contract
Payments) to or for the benefit of a Contract Player whose registration it holds;
U.38.5. by way of an allowance permitted by Youth Development Rule 291, to an
Academy Player with whom it has entered into a Scholarship Agreement;
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SECTION U: PLAYERS REGISTRATIONS
U.38.6. by way of payment to an Authorised Agent or Exempt Solicitor for Agency
Activity, in each case as those terms are defined in the Football Association
Football Agents Regulations, and provided that such payment is made in
accordance with those Regulations;
U.38.8. by payment or receipt of training compensation or solidarity payment pursuant
to the FIFA Regulations for the Status and Transfer of Players and any other levies
or payments payable to or by a Club pursuant to the statutes or regulations of
FIFA or any other football governing body from time to time, or otherwise
properly due to or from such a governing body;
U.38.9. by payment of Value Added Tax payable in respect of any of the above payments
or liabilities; and
U.38.10.
in the case of a Transferor Club, by assignment of its entitlement to a
Compensation Fee or Loan Fee to a Financial Institution.
U.39.
In respect of a player whom it applies to register as a Contract Player, a Club is permitted to
make a payment to buy out the interest of a person or entity who, not being a Club or club,
nevertheless has an agreement either with the club with which the player is registered, or
with the player, granting it the right to receive money from a new Club or club for which that
player becomes registered. Any such payment which is not dependent on the happening of a
contingent event may be made either in one lump sum or in instalments provided that all
such instalments are paid on or before the expiry date of the initial contract between the
Club and the player. Any such payment which is payable upon the happening of a contingent
event shall be payable within 7 days of the happening of that event.
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PREMIER LEAGUE RULES: SECTION A
U
U.38.7. by payment of incidental expenses arising in respect thereof;
PLAYERS: CONTRACTS, REGISTRATIONS AND TRANSFERS
SECTION V: PLAYERS TRANSFERS OF REGISTRATIONS
Transfer Windows
PREMIER LEAGUE RULES: SECTION A
V
V.1.
Transfer Windows means the 2 periods in a year during which, subject to Rule V.4, a Club
may apply for:
V.1.1.
the New Registration of a player;
V.1.2.
the registration of a player transferred to it; and
V.1.3.
the registration of a Temporary Transfer.
V.2.
The first Transfer Window in any year shall commence at midnight on the last day of the
Season or at such other date and time as the Board shall determine and shall end on 31st
August next if a Working Day or, if not, on the first Working Day thereafter, at a time to be
determined by the Board.
V.3.
The second Transfer Window in any year shall commence at midnight on 31st December or
at such other date and time as the Board shall determine and shall end on 31st January next
if a Working Day or, if not, on the first Working Day thereafter, at a time to be determined by
the Board.
V.4.
Outside a Transfer Window the Board in its absolute discretion may:
V.4.1.
refuse an application; or
V.4.2. grant an application and, if thought fit, impose conditions by which the Club
making the application and the player shall be bound.
Temporary Transfers
V.5.
A Temporary Transfer shall mean the transfer of a contract registration effected in
accordance with Rules V.6 to V.10.
V.6.
Subject to the conditions set out below, a Temporary Transfer shall be permitted:
V.6.1.
between Clubs; and
V.6.2. between a Club and a club in membership of the Football League, the Football
Conference, the Northern Premier League, the Isthmian League and the Southern
League.
V.7.
The conditions referred to in Rule V.6 are:
V.7.1. a Temporary Transfer to a Club may not take place in the Transfer Window in
which the Transferor Club acquired the Players registration;
V.7.2. during the period of the Temporary Transfer of his contract registration a Player
shall not play against the Transferor Club;
V.7.3. if during the period of a Temporary Transfer the Players registration is transferred
permanently from the Transferor Club to the Transferee Club, the two Clubs may
agree in writing (to be copied to the League) that the Player shall not play against
the Transferor Club for the remainder of the Season;
V.7.4. subject to any conditions imposed by the Board in the exercise of its discretion
under Rule V.4.2, the minimum period of a Temporary Transfer shall be the period
between 2 consecutive Transfer Windows and the period of a Temporary Transfer
shall not extend beyond 30th June next after it was entered into;
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SECTION V: PLAYERS TRANSFERS OF REGISTRATIONS
V.7.5. the maximum number of Temporary Transfers to any one Club registrable in the
same Season shall be 4 and in no circumstances shall more than 1 be from the
same Transferor Club at any one time save there shall be excluded from these
numbers any Temporary Transfer of the kind described in V.7.6.1 or V.7.6.2;
V.7.6.1.
any Temporary Transfer which become permanent; and
V.7.6.2. the Temporary Transfer of a goalkeeper which in its absolute discretion
the Board may allow in circumstances it considers to be exceptional;
V.7.7. a Club may transfer the registration of no more than one of its goalkeepers by way
of temporary Transfer to another Club each Season, subject to any further
Temporary Transfer of one of its goalkeepers pursuant to Rule V.7.6.2;
V.7.8. any other conditions agreed between the Transferor Club and the Transferee Club
or, in the exercise of its discretion, imposed by the Board.
V.8.
The Loan Fee payable on a Temporary Transfer shall be such sum (if any) as shall have been
agreed between the Transferee Club and the Transferor Club and set out in Football
Association Form H.2 or H.3 (as appropriate) or in a supplementary agreement.
V.9.
Any Loan Fee (including any instalments thereof) shall be paid on or before the date or dates
agreed between the parties, the latest of which must be no later than 30th June immediately
following the conclusion of the Season in which the Temporary Transfer expired.
V.10.
A Temporary Transfer shall be effected by submitting to the Secretary Football Association
Form H.2 or Form H.3 duly completed and signed on behalf of the Club by an Authorised
Signatory.
Contract Players
V.11.
The transfer of the Registration of a Contract Player shall be effected in the following
manner:
V.11.1. the Transferor Club and the Transferee Club shall enter into a Transfer Agreement
in Form 29 signed on behalf of each Club by an Authorised Signatory in which shall
be set out full particulars of all financial and other arrangements agreed between
the Transferor Club and the Transferee Club and, except as provided below,
between the Transferor Club and the Contract Player in relation to the transfer of
the Contract Players registration whether the same are to take effect upon
completion of the transfer or at any time thereafter;
V.11.2. any such arrangements agreed between the Transferor Club and the Contract
Player to which the Transferee Club is not privy may be omitted from Form 29
provided that they are forthwith notified in writing to the Secretary by the
Transferor Club;
V.11.3. the Transfer Agreement shall be sent by the Transferee Club to the Secretary
together with a copy of the contract entered into between the Transferee Club
and the Contract Player together with (if applicable) the evidence required by
Rules U.12 and U.13;
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V.7.6. not more than 2 Temporary Transfers shall be registered by a Club at the same
time except that there shall be excluded from that number:
SECTION V: PLAYERS TRANSFERS OF REGISTRATIONS
PREMIER LEAGUE RULES: SECTION A
V
V.11.4. the Transferee Club shall pay any Compensation Fee due to the Transferor Club
under the terms of the Transfer Agreement in accordance with Rule V.29 and any
levy payable under Rule V.38.
V.12.
All transfer arrangements in respect of Contract Players are subject to the approval of the Board.
V.13.
The Transferee Club will hold the registration of the Contract Player upon receipt of the
Leagues confirmation by email to that effect.
Retired Players
V.14.
A Club that, pursuant to Rule U.29.5, holds the registration of a Retired Player who is under
the age of 24 years, shall be entitled if his registration is transferred to be paid a Compensation
Fee by the Transferee Club.
Out of Contract Players
V.15.
An Out of Contract Player may seek to be registered by any Transferee Club.
V.16.
Upon receiving a formal written offer to effect the New Registration of an Out of Contract
Player whose registration it holds, a Club shall forthwith notify the Player and the Secretary
in writing to that effect.
V.17.
Provided that the following conditions are satisfied, a Compensation Fee shall be paid to a
Transferor Club by a Transferee Club upon effecting the New Registration of an Out of
Contract Player:
V.17.1.
the Out of Contract Player in question must be under the age of 24 years;
V.17.2. on or before the third Saturday in May in the year in which the Players contract is
to expire or, in the circumstances mentioned in Rule U.33, within 4 days of the last
relevant F.A. Cup match or League Match in that year having been played, the
Transferor Club must send to the Player Form 30 offering him a new contract on
the terms therein set out, which must be no less favourable than those in his
current contract;
V.17.3. any offer made on Form 30 by a Club to a Player under the provisions of Rule
V.17.2 shall remain open and capable of acceptance by the Player for a period of
one month from the date upon which it was sent by the Club by ordinary first
class post to his usual or last known address;
V.17.4.
V.18.
a copy of Form 30 must be sent forthwith to the Secretary.
Contract terms shall be deemed to be no less favourable if, disregarding any provision for a
Signing on Fee in the Players current contract which is stated to be a once only payment,
they are at least equal in value to the most favourable terms to which the Player was or is
entitled in any year of his current contract.
The Players Options
V.19.
Upon receiving an offer on Form 30 a Player may either:
V.19.1. accept the same within one month of its date and enter into a new contract with
his Club in the terms offered; or
V.19.2.
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SECTION V: PLAYERS TRANSFERS OF REGISTRATIONS
If the Player considers that the terms offered by his Club and set out in Form 30 are less
favourable than those in his current contract, he may give notice to that effect to his Club and
the Secretary in Form 31 and apply for a free transfer.
V.21.
Such application shall be determined by the Board and if it succeeds:
V.21.1. the Players Club will not be entitled to a Compensation Fee upon a Transferee
Club effecting his New Registration; and
V.21.2.
the Player will receive severance pay in accordance with his contract.
The Clubs Options
V.22.
If a Club makes an offer to a Player on Form 30 and the Player declines it, upon the expiry of
the Players contract the Club may either:
V.22.1. enter into a Conditional Contract with the Player in such financial terms as may
be agreed; or
V.22.2.
enter into a Week by Week Contract with the Player; or
V.22.3. if neither a Conditional Contract nor a Week by Week Contract has been entered
into or a Week by Week Contract has been determined by the Club, continue to
pay the Player the amount of the basic wage under his expired contract;
and in any such case the Club shall be entitled to a Compensation Fee upon a Transferee Club
effecting the Players New Registration provided he then remains under the age of 24 years
and the other conditions set out in Rule V.17 have been satisfied.
V.23.
The financial terms of a Week by Week Contract shall be those contained in the Players
expired contract, excluding any Signing-on Fee, except that the Player shall be entitled to
receive such incentives (if any) as are payable by the Club to its Contract Players with effect
from the date of his new contract.
V.24.
An Out of Contract Player who continues to receive from his Club the amount of his basic
wage under the provisions of Rule V.22.3 shall not be entitled to play for that Club. If such
Out of Contract Player unreasonably refuses an offer of employment by another Club (or
club), his Club may make application to the Premier League Appeals Committee for an order
that payments to the Out of Contract Player may cease without affecting his Clubs
entitlement to a Compensation Fee.
V.25.
A Club which having continued to pay the Player the amount of his basic wage under Rule
V.22.3 intends to cease making such payments shall give to the Player 2 weeks notice to that
effect and upon a Transferee Club effecting the Players New Registration the Club shall not
be entitled to a Compensation Fee.
The Compensation Fee
V.26.
The Compensation Fee payable by a Transferee Club to a Transferor Club upon the transfer of the
registration of a Contract Player to the Transferee Club shall be such sum as shall have been agreed
between the Transferee Club and the Transferor Club and set out in the Transfer Agreement.
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V
V.20.
SECTION V: PLAYERS TRANSFERS OF REGISTRATIONS
V.27.
The Compensation Fee likewise payable in respect of an Out of Contract Player under the
provisions of Rule V.17 shall be:
PREMIER LEAGUE RULES: SECTION A
V
V.27.1. such sum as shall have been agreed between the Transferee Club and the
Transferor Club or in default of agreement;
V.27.2.
such sum as the Professional Football Compensation Committee on the
application of either Club shall determine.
V.28.
A Club which is a Transferor Club shall provide to any previous Club or Football League club
with which a player was registered, and which has a right to sell-on fee in respect of any
transfer of that player, full details of any Compensation Fee and Contingent Sum(s) to which
it becomes entitled. The Club receiving the information shall not disclose or divulge it directly
or indirectly to any third party without the prior written consent of the Transferor Club save
to statutory and regulatory authorities or as may be required by law or to its Auditors.
Method of Payment
V.29.
Subject to Rules V.30 and V.35, all Compensation Fees, Loan Fees (including in both cases
instalments thereof) and Contingent Sums payable to a Club or to a Football League club
shall be paid (together in each case with Value Added Tax at the then current rate) by the
Transferee Club into the Compensation Fee Account by telegraphic transfer or by such other
means as the Board may from time to time direct.
V.30.
If a Club assigns its entitlement to a Compensation Fee or Loan Fee instalment pursuant to
Rule U.38.10:
V.30.1. it shall procure by means of a legally enforceable agreement that monies payable
by virtue of the assignment are paid into the Compensation Fee Account by the
assignee; and
V.30.2. it shall irrevocably and unconditionally instruct the Transferee Club to pay such
monies to the assignee upon their becoming due.
V.31.
Subject to Rule V.37.2, forthwith upon receiving monies into the Compensation Fee Account
the Board shall pay the same to the Transferor Club entitled to receive them.
V.32.
A Transfer Agreement shall provide that the agreed Compensation Fee together with Value
Added Tax at the then current rate shall be paid on or before the expiry date of the initial
contract between the Transferee Club and the Contract Player. Compensation Fee
instalments shall be paid on or before the dates set out in the Transfer Agreement (and if any
such date is not a Working Day then the instalment shall be paid on the Working Day which
immediately precedes that date).
V.33.
Where any Compensation Fee payable under the provisions of Rule V.17 is not agreed
between the Transferee Club and the Transferor Club, the Transferee Club shall upon applying
to register the Out of Contract Player pay into the Compensation Fee Account at least half
the Compensation Fee offered to the Transferor Club and the balance shall likewise be paid
as determined by the Professional Football Compensation Committee under Rule V.27.2.
V.34.
If the registration of a Player is further transferred before the Compensation Fee in respect of
an earlier transfer is paid in full, the Transferee Club in that earlier transfer shall forthwith pay
the balance of such Compensation Fee into the Compensation Fee Account save where it has
received an instruction in accordance with Rule V.30.2, in which case it shall pay such balance
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SECTION V: PLAYERS TRANSFERS OF REGISTRATIONS
to the assignee named in the instruction on the date or dates when it becomes due under the
Transfer Agreement pursuant to which it acquired the registration of the Player.
An agreement for an International Transfer and a Transfer Agreement with a Transferor Club
which is not in membership of the League or the Football League shall provide that the
Compensation Fee, any instalments thereof and any Contingent Sums payable by the Transferee
Club shall be paid (together with any Value Added Tax payable in respect thereof) to the Football
Association by telegraphic transfer or by such other means as the Board may from time to time
direct for payment to the Transferor Club in accordance with the Football Association Rules.
V.36.
Upon the happening of a contingent event resulting in a Contingent Sum (including for the
avoidance of doubt, contingent compensation payable pursuant to the Youth Development
Rules) becoming payable:
V.36.1. in the case of an International Transfer, the Transferee Club shall forthwith inform
the Transferor Club in writing to that effect and within 7 days pay such Contingent
Sum in accordance with Rule V.35;
V.36.2. in every other case, the Transferee Club shall forthwith inform the Transferor Club
to that effect on Form 32 and within 7 days pay such Contingent Sum in
accordance with Rule V.29.
V.37.
If any Transferee Club acts in breach of Rules V.29 or V.32 to V.36 inclusive:
V.37.1. the Board shall have power to refuse any application by that Transferee Club to
register any Player until any sums then payable to its Transferor Club are paid;
V.37.2.
the Board shall have the power set out at Rule E.28;
V.37.3. the Board shall have power to impose a penalty in accordance with the tariff of
applicable penalties which it shall from time to time notify to Clubs;
V.37.4. that Transferee Club shall pay to its Transferor Club interest on any part of a
Compensation Fee or Contingent Sum not paid on its due date at the rate of 5 per
cent over the base rate from time to time of Barclays Bank Plc from that date until
the date of payment together with such other penalty as the Board in its discretion
may decide.
Transfer Levy
V.38.
Subject to Rule V.39, upon payment of a Compensation Fee, a Contingent Sum or a payment
made pursuant to Rule U.39, a Club shall forthwith pay to the League a levy equal to 4 per
cent. of the sum paid (net of any Value Added Tax) and in the case of a Compensation Fee
payable by instalments, the levy upon the whole of it shall be paid as aforesaid upon the
Transferee Club applying to register the Player to which it relates.
V.39.
Levy shall not be payable on a Loan Fee unless the registration of the Contract Player who is
the subject of the Temporary Transfer is transferred on a permanent basis from the Transferor
Club to the Transferee Club during, or within four months of the expiry of, the Temporary
Transfer, in which case a levy equal to 4 per cent of the aggregate of any Loan Fee and
Compensation Fee shall be paid to the League.
V.40.
The sums received by the League by way of levy shall be used to pay premiums due under the
Professional Footballers Pension Scheme and any surplus shall be added to the Professional
Game Youth Fund.
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V.35.
DISCIPLINARY AND THE RESOLUTION OF DISPUTES
SECTION W: DISCIPLINARY
Power of Inquiry
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A
W.1.
W.2.
The Board shall have power to inquire into any suspected or alleged breach of these Rules and
for that purpose may require:
W.1.1.
any Manager, Match Official, Official or Player to appear before it; and
W.1.2.
any such person or any Club to produce documents.
Any Manager, Match Official, Official or Player who fails to appear before or to produce
documents to the Board when required to do so under Rule W.1 shall be in breach of these
Rules.
Boards Disciplinary Powers
W.3.
The Board shall have power to deal with any suspected or alleged breach of these Rules by
either:
W.3.1.
issuing a reprimand; or
W.3.2. imposing a fixed penalty or other sanction where such provision is made in these
Rules; or
W.3.3.
exercising its summary jurisdiction; or
W.3.4.
referring the matter to a Commission appointed under Rule W.21; or
W.3.5. referring the matter to the Football Association for determination under the
Football Association Rules.
Fixed Penalty Procedure
W.4.
Upon being satisfied that a fixed penalty is payable under the provisions of these Rules, the
Board shall give notice in Form 33 to the Club or person by whom it is payable.
W.5.
Within 14 days of the date of a notice in Form 33 the Club or person to whom it is addressed
may either:
W.6.
W.5.1.
pay the fixed penalty; or
W.5.2.
appeal under the provisions of Rule W.61.1 against the imposition of the same.
Failure to pay a fixed penalty as provided in Rule W.5.1 or forthwith upon an appeal against
the same being dismissed shall in either case constitute a breach of these Rules.
Summary Jurisdiction
W.7.
The Boards summary jurisdiction shall extend to any suspected or alleged breach of these
Rules (other than a breach for which a fixed penalty is prescribed) which in its absolute
discretion the Board considers should not be referred to a Commission under Rule W.3.4 or
to the Football Association under Rule W.5.
W.8.
In exercising its summary jurisdiction the Board shall be entitled to impose a fine not
exceeding 25,000.00 or, in the case of a breach of these Rules by a Manager, such sum as
may be set out in any tariff of fines, or other penalty, agreed in writing between the Board
and the League Managers Association.
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SECTION W: DISCIPLINARY
The Board shall exercise its summary jurisdiction by giving notice in Form 34 to the Club or
person allegedly in breach.
W.10.
Within 14 days of the date of a notice in Form 34 the Club or person to whom it is addressed
may either:
W.11.
W.10.1.
submit to the Boards jurisdiction and pay the fine imposed; or
W.10.2.
elect to be dealt with by a Commission.
Failure to comply with the requirement contained in a notice in Form 34 shall constitute a
breach of these Rules.
Provision of Information
W.12.
It shall be no answer to a request from the Board to disclose documents or information
pursuant to Rule W.1 that such documents or information requested are confidential. All
Clubs and Persons subject to these Rules must ensure that any other obligations of
confidentiality assumed are made expressly subject to the Leagues right of inquiry under
these Rules. No Club or Person shall be under an obligation to disclose any documents
rendered confidential by either the order of a court of competent jurisdiction or by statute or
statutory instrument.
W.13.
All persons who are requested to assist pursuant to Rule W.1 shall provide full, complete and
prompt assistance to the Board in its exercise of its power of Inquiry
The Panel
W.14.
Subject in each case to the approval of Clubs in General Meeting, the Board shall establish a
panel of such number of persons as it shall think fit (the Panel) each of whom shall be
eligible to sit as either:
W.14.1. a member of an appeal tribunal appointed under the provisions of Rule E.42 or
Rule F.16; or
W.14.2.
a member of a Commission; or
W.14.3. in the case of an arbitration under Rules P.12 and Section Y of these Rules, as a
member of a Managers Arbitration Tribunal; or
W.14.4. in the case of an arbitration under Section X of these Rules (Arbitration), as a
member of an arbitral tribunal.
W.15.
The Panel shall include:
W.15.1. authorised insolvency practitioners eligible under Rule E.42 to sit as a member of
an appeal tribunal appointed thereunder; and
W.15.2.
legally qualified persons eligible:
W.15.2.1. under Rule E.42 or Rule F.16 to sit as chairmen of appeal tribunals
appointed thereunder; or
W.15.2.2. under Rule Y.7 to sit as chairmen of Managers Arbitration Tribunals;
or
W.15.2.3. under Rule W.21 to sit as chairmen of Commissions; or
W.15.2.4. under Rule X.11 as chairmen of arbitral tribunals other than Managers
Arbitration Tribunals; or
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SECTION W: DISCIPLINARY
W.15.2.5. under Rule X.15 as a single arbitrator; and persons who have held judicial
office eligible under Rule W.62 to sit as chairmen of Appeals Boards;
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W.15.3. persons who hold nationally recognised qualifications as accountants or auditors,
who shall be eligible to be members of Commissions appointed to determine
suspected or alleged breaches of Rules E.52 to E.593.
W.16.
The Panel shall not include members of the Board or Officials but may include members of
the Council of the Football Association who are not Officials.
W.17.
Subject to Rules W.18 and W.19, the term of office of each member of the Panel shall be 3
years (and for the avoidance of doubt at the end of that term a member of the Panel may be
re-appointed as such pursuant to Rule W.14).
W.18.
A member of the Panel appointed for any purpose provided by these Rules may continue to
act on the matter for which he was so appointed notwithstanding that his term of office has
expired pursuant to Rule W.17 since his appointment.
W.19.
Subject to Rule W.20, the term of office of a member of the Panel shall be terminated by the
Board forthwith if:
W.19.1.
he is or becomes subject to any of the matters set out in Rule F.1; or
W.19.2. circumstances exist that give rise to justifiable doubts as to whether he can
discharge the duties of a member of the Panel impartially; or
W.19.3. he is physically or mentally incapable of discharging the duties of a member of the
Panel; or
W.19.4.
he has refused or failed:
W.19.4.1. properly to conduct proceedings pursuant to these Rules; or
W.19.4.2. to use all reasonable dispatch in conducting such proceedings;
and in either case substantial injustice has as a result been caused to a party
to such proceedings.
W.20.
If a member of the Panel whose term of office is terminated by the Board pursuant to Rule
W.19 wishes to challenge that termination, he may do so solely by way of commencing
arbitration proceedings pursuant to Rule X.6
Appointing a Commission
W.21.
A Commission shall be appointed by the Board and shall comprise 3 members of the Panel
of whom one, who shall be legally qualified, shall sit as chairman of the Commission.
W.22.
To take effect from the start of Season 2015/16:
A Commission appointed to deal with a suspected or alleged breach of Rules E.52 to E.59
shall include at least one member of the Panel qualified as set out in Rule W.15.3 (but who
shall not sit as the chairman of the Commission, who shall be legally qualified as set out in
Rule W.21).
Rules E.52 to E.59 come into force with effect from the start of Season 2015/16.
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SECTION W: DISCIPLINARY
Commission Procedures
W.23.
The parties to proceedings before a Commission shall be:
W.23.1.
the Board; and
W.24.
Proceedings shall be commenced by complaint which shall be drafted by or on behalf of
the Board.
W.25.
The complaint shall be in Form 35 and shall identify the Rule allegedly breached, it shall
contain a summary of the facts alleged and it shall have annexed to it copies of any
documents relied upon by the Board.
W.26.
The complaint shall be sent by recorded delivery post by the Secretary to the Respondent. In
the case of a Respondent who is a Manager, an Official or a Player it shall be sent to him care
of his Club. A complaint shall be deemed to have been received by a Respondent on the third
day after the date of posting. No defect in the service of a complaint shall invalidate all or any
part of the proceedings if it can be shown that it is likely that the complaint has come to the
attention of the Respondent.
W.27.
At any stage the Commission may determine (either of its own accord or as a result of
representations from a Person, Club or club and in any event in its sole discretion), that if the
complaint is upheld, it may wish to exercise its power under Rule W.54.5 to award
compensation to any Person or to any Club (or club). If the Commission so determines, it
shall notify the parties to the proceedings and the relevant Person, Club or club of this fact.
The Commission may then make appropriate directions as to the receipt of evidence of loss
from the relevant Person, Club or club as well as directions on the receipt of evidence in
response from the parties to the proceedings.
W.28.
In the case of a Respondent which is a Club, if a Commission considers whether to exercise its
power under Rule W.54.5 to award compensation to another Club (which term for the
purposes of this Rule W.28 shall include a Relegated Club), but determines that the other
Club has no entitlement to compensation, the other Club shall be entitled to appeal that
determination to an Appeal Board. If it does not do so, or if the Appeal Board upholds the
Commissions decision that it has no entitlement to compensation, it shall not be entitled to
bring any claim for compensation, whether under these Rules or otherwise, against the
Respondent Club arising out of the breach of these Rules in respect of which the Commission
was appointed.
W.29.
Within 14 days of receipt of the complaint the Respondent (or such shorter time as a
Commission may order pursuant to Rule W.31) shall send to the Secretary by recorded
delivery post a written answer in Form 36 in which the Respondent:
W.29.1.
shall either admit or deny the complaint; and
W.29.2. may request that the complaint shall be determined by written representations in
which case, if the complaint is denied, the written representations shall be
contained in the answer.
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W.23.2. the Club, Manager, Match Official, Official or Player allegedly in breach of these
Rules (the Respondent).
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SECTION W: DISCIPLINARY
W.30.
The Secretary on behalf of the Board shall respond in writing to any such request within 14
days of receipt of the answer (or such shorter time as a Commission may order pursuant to
Rule W.31) and if the request is denied the complaint shall be determined at a hearing.
W.31.
The Commission shall have the power to abridge the time periods set out in Rules W.29 and
W.30 if there is a compelling reason why the proceedings before the Commission need to be
concluded expeditiously.
W.32.
If the complaint is admitted, the Respondent may include in the answer any mitigation to be
taken into account by the Commission.
W.33.
If the complaint is denied, the Respondents reasons shall be set out in the answer and copies
of any documents on which the Respondent relies shall be annexed.
W.34.
Documentary evidence shall be admissible whether or not copies are attached to the
complaint or the answer as long as such documents are:
W.34.1.
relevant; and
W.34.2. submitted by a party to the Commission in sufficient time before the hearing,
such that neither party will be prejudiced by their submission.
W.35.
The Secretary shall provide a copy of the answer to the chairman of the Commission together
with a copy of his response to any request for determination by written representations.
W.36.
If the Respondent fails to send an answer in accordance with Rule W.29, the Respondent
shall be deemed to have denied the complaint which shall be determined at a hearing.
W.37.
If the complaint is to be determined by written representations, forthwith upon receipt of
the answer the chairman of the Commission shall convene a meeting of its members for that
purpose.
W.38.
If the complaint is to be determined at a hearing, the chairman of the Commission may give
directions for the future conduct of the complaint addressed in writing to the parties or
require the parties to attend a directions hearing.
W.39.
A directions hearing shall be conducted by the chairman of the Commission sitting alone. He
may give such directions as he thinks fit including directions for:
W.39.1.
the Board to give further particulars of the complaint;
W.39.2. the Respondent to give further particulars of the answer;
W.39.3. either or both parties to produce and exchange documents;
W.39.4. the submission of expert evidence;
W.39.5. lists of witnesses and lodging and exchange of witness statements;
W.39.6. witnesses to be summoned to attend the hearing;
W.39.7.
prior notice to be given of any authorities relied on by the parties;
W.39.8. the parties to lodge and exchange an outline of their submissions;
W.39.9. the assessment of the entitlement to and amount of compensation that may be
ordered pursuant to Rule W.54.5.
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SECTION W: DISCIPLINARY
Notice of the date, time and place of the hearing shall be given in writing to the parties by the
chairman of the Commission.
W.41.
If the Board or its representative fails to attend the hearing the chairman of the Commission
may either adjourn it or proceed in the Boards absence.
W.42.
If the Respondent fails to attend the hearing it shall proceed in the absence of the Respondent.
W.43.
Any witness who is bound by these Rules and who having been summoned by a Commission
to attend a hearing fails to do so shall be in breach of these Rules.
W.44.
The chairman of the Commission shall have an overriding discretion as to the manner in
which a hearing is conducted but, subject thereto:
W.44.1.
where the complaint has been admitted, he shall invite the Board or its
representative to outline the facts and shall give the Respondent the opportunity
to add to any mitigation contained in the answer;
W.44.2. where the complaint has been denied, the proceedings shall be conducted on an
inquisitorial basis; the witnesses shall be taken through their evidence in chief by
the party tendering such evidence and may be subject to cross-examination by
the opposing party (at its option) and re-examination if required. Witnesses may
also be examined by the chairman of the Commission and its members;
W.44.3. the parties shall be permitted to put questions to witnesses;
W.44.4. witnesses may be examined on oath;
W.44.5. at the conclusion of the evidence the parties shall each be invited to address the
Commission.
W.45.
The chairman of a Commission may order that a transcript of the proceedings be taken.
W.46.
The proceedings of a Commission shall be conducted in private.
W.47.
The Board shall have the onus of proof on a balance of probabilities.
W.48.
If the members of a Commission are not unanimous the decision of the majority of them
shall prevail.
W.49.
In the case of a determination by written representations the Commissions decision shall
forthwith be communicated in writing by the chairman of the Commission to the parties.
W.50.
In the case of a determination at a hearing the Commissions decision shall be announced as
soon as practicable thereafter and if possible at the end of the hearing and shall be confirmed
in writing by the chairman of the Commission to the parties.
W.51.
In either case, unless the parties otherwise agree, the Commission shall give its reasons for
its decision. In the event of a majority decision no minority opinion shall be produced.
W.52.
Members of a Commission shall be entitled to receive from the League a reasonable sum by
way of fees and expenses.
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Commissions Powers
W.53.
Upon finding a complaint to have been proved a Commission shall invite the Respondent to
place any mitigating facts before the Commission.
W.54.
Having heard and considered such mitigation (if any) the Commission may:
W.54.1.
reprimand the Respondent;
W.54.2. impose upon the Respondent a fine unlimited in amount;
W.54.3. in the case of a Respondent who is a Manager, Match Official, Official or Player,
suspend him from operating as such for such period as it shall think fit;
W.54.4. in the case of a Respondent which is a Club:
W.54.4.1.
suspend it from playing in League Matches or any matches in
competitions which form part of the Games Programmes or
Professional Development Leagues (as those terms are defined in the
Youth Development Rules) for such period as it thinks fit;
W.54.4.2. deduct points scored or to be scored in League Matches or such other
matches as are referred to in Rule W.54.4.1;
W.54.4.3. recommend that the Board orders that a League Match or such other
match as is referred to in Rule W.54.4.1 be replayed;
W.54.4.4. recommend that the League expels the Respondent from membership
in accordance with the provisions of Rule B.7;
W.54.5. order the Respondent to pay compensation unlimited in amount to any Person or
to any Club (or club);
W.54.6. cancel or refuse the registration of a Player registered or attempted to be
registered in contravention of these Rules;
W.54.7. impose upon the Respondent any combination of the foregoing or such other
penalty as it shall think fit;
W.54.8. order the Respondent to pay such sum by way of costs as it shall think fit which
may include the fees and expenses of members of the Commission paid or
payable under Rule W.52; and
W.54.9. make such other order as it thinks fit.
W.55.
Where a Person, Club or club has been invited to address the Commission on compensation,
the Commission may adjourn the hearing to allow all relevant parties to make submissions,
or if it considers that it is in the interest of justice that the determination of the complaint be
resolved before the issue of compensation is addressed, direct that a further hearing take
place on the issue of compensation after the complaint has been determined.
W.56.
A Person, Club or club invited to make submissions on compensation shall be entitled to be
present at the hearing, but may only make submissions or advance evidence or question
witnesses if and to the extent that the Chairman of the Commission gives it leave.
W.57.
If the Board fails to prove a complaint a Commission may order the League to pay to the
Respondent such sum by way of costs as it shall think fit.
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SECTION W: DISCIPLINARY
Where a Respondent Club is suspended from playing in League Matches or any matches in
competitions which form part of the Games Programme or Professional Development Leagues
(as those terms are defined in the Youth Development Rules) under the provisions of Rule
W.54.4.1, its opponents in such matches which should have been played during the period of
suspension, unless a Commission otherwise orders, shall be deemed to have won them.
W.59.
Fines and costs shall be recoverable by the Board as a civil debt; compensation shall likewise
be recoverable by the person or Club entitled to receive it.
W.60.
Fines recovered by the Board shall be used towards the operating expenses of the League or,
at the discretion of the Board, towards charitable purposes. Costs recovered by the Board
shall be used to defray the costs of the Commission.
Appeals
W.61.
A Club (or club) or Person aggrieved by:
W.61.1.
the decision of the Board to impose a fixed penalty; or
W.61.2. the decision of a Commission before which such Club or person appeared as
Respondent; or
W.61.3. the amount of compensation (if any) which a Commission has, pursuant to Rule
W.54.5, ordered either that it shall pay or that shall be paid in its favour;
may appeal in accordance with the provisions of these Rules against the decision, the penalty
or the amount of compensation (as appropriate).
W.62.
An appeal shall lie to an Appeal Board which shall be appointed by the Board and, subject to
Rule W.63, shall comprise 3 members of the Panel of whom one, who shall have held judicial
office, shall sit as chairman of the Appeal Board.
W.63.
No member of the Panel shall be appointed to an Appeal Board to hear an appeal against the
decision of a Commission of which he was a member.
W.64.
The parties to an appeal shall be:
W.64.1.
a Respondent to a charge; and/or
W.64.2. a Person, Club or club pursuant to Rule W.61.3; and/or
W.64.3. the Board.
W.65.
An appeal against the decision of the Board to impose a fixed penalty shall be in Form 37.
W.66.
An appeal against the decision of a Commission shall be in Form 38.
W.67.
An appeal shall be commenced by the appellant sending or delivering to the Secretary Form
37 or Form 38, as the case may be, so that he receives the same together with a deposit of
1,000 within 14 days of the date of the decision appealed against (time of the essence)
unless the Appeal Board orders a lesser period pursuant to Rule W.68.
W.68.
The Appeal Board shall have the power to abridge the time period set out in Rule W.67 if
there is a compelling reason why the proceedings before the Appeal Board need to be
concluded expeditiously.
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W.58.
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SECTION W: DISCIPLINARY
W.69.
The Appeal Board may give directions as it thinks fit for the future conduct of the appeal,
addressed in writing to the parties, or require the parties to attend a directions hearing.
W.70.
Any party to an appeal may apply for permission to adduce fresh evidence. Such permission
shall only be granted if it can be shown that the evidence was not available to the party and
could not have been obtained by such party with reasonable diligence, at the time at which
the Commission heard the complaint.
W.71.
Notice of the date, time and place of the appeal hearing shall be given in writing to the parties
by the chairman of the Appeal Board.
W.72.
If a party fails, refuses or is unable to attend the hearing the Appeal Board may either adjourn
it or proceed in the partys absence.
W.73.
Except in cases in which the Appeal Board gives leave to adduce fresh evidence pursuant
to Rule W.70, an appeal shall be by way of a review of the documents and the parties shall
be entitled to make oral representations. Subject to the foregoing provisions of this Rule,
the Appeal Board shall have an overriding discretion as to the manner in which the
hearing is conducted.
W.74.
The Appeal Board may permit the Appellant (or Person, Club or club pursuant to Rule W.61.3)
at any time to withdraw the appeal on such terms as to costs and otherwise as the Appeal
Board shall determine.
W.75.
If the members of the Appeal Board are not unanimous, the decision of the majority of them
shall prevail.
W.76.
The Appeal Boards decision shall be announced as soon as practicable after the appeal
hearing and if possible at the end thereof and shall be confirmed in writing by the chairman
of the Appeal Board to the parties, giving reasons. If the decision reached by the Appeal
Board was by a majority, no minority or dissenting opinion shall be produced or published.
W.77.
Members of an Appeal Board shall be entitled to receive from the League a reasonable sum
by way of fees and expenses.
Appeal Boards Powers
W.78.
Upon the hearing of an appeal, an Appeal Board may:
W.78.1.
allow the appeal;
W.78.2. dismiss the appeal;
W.78.3. except in the case of a fixed penalty, vary any penalty imposed or order made at
first instance;
W.78.4. vary or discharge any order for compensation made by the Commission;
W.78.5. order the deposit to be forfeited to the League or repaid to the appellant;
W.78.6. order a party to pay or contribute to the costs of the appeal including the fees and
expenses of members of the Appeal Board paid or payable under Rule W.77;
W.78.7.
remit the matter back to the Commission with directions as to its future disposal;
W.78.8. make such other order as it thinks fit.
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SECTION W: DISCIPLINARY
W.79.
Subject to the provisions of Section X of these Rules (Arbitration), the decision of an Appeal
Board shall be final.
Admissibility of Evidence
In the exercise of their powers under this Section of these Rules, a Commission or an Appeal
Board shall not be bound by any enactment or rule of law relating to the admissibility of
evidence save as to relevance.
Legal Representation
W.81.
The parties to proceedings before a Commission or an Appeal Board shall be entitled to be
represented by a solicitor or counsel provided that they shall have given to the other party
and to the chairman of the Commission or of the Appeal Board as the case may be 14 days
prior written notice to that effect identifying the solicitor or counsel instructed.
Publication and Privilege
W.82.
Without prejudice in any event to any form of privilege available in respect of any such
publication, whether pursuant to the Defamation Act 1996 or otherwise, the Board, a
Commission and an Appeal Board shall be entitled to publish as each of them shall think fit
reports of their proceedings, whether or not they reflect adversely on the character or
conduct of any Club, Manager, Match Official, Official or Player and any Club and any
person bound by these Rules and any person bound by virtue of any obligation whether to
the League or to any third party to observe these Rules shall be deemed to have provided
their full and irrevocable consent to the publication of oral or written statements without
limit in number by any of the Board, a Commission and an Appeal Board in any form or
media as each of them shall think fit of details of any and all evidence tendered in any
proceedings over which they have jurisdiction and of a full report of any finding or decision
made by any of the said bodies.
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W.80.
DISCIPLINARY AND THE RESOLUTION OF DISPUTES
SECTION X: ARBITRATION
Definitions
X.1.
In this Section of these Rules:
PREMIER LEAGUE RULES: SECTION X
X.1.1.
the Act means the Arbitration Act 1996 or any re-enactment or amendment
thereof for the time being in force;
X.1.2. party means a party to the arbitration;
X.1.3.
the tribunal means the arbitral tribunal;
X.1.4.
the chairman means the chairman of the tribunal.
Agreement to Arbitrate
X.2.
Membership of the League shall constitute an agreement in writing between the League and
Clubs and between each Club for the purposes of section 5 of the Act in the following terms:
X.2.1. to submit all disputes which arise between them (including in the case of a
Relegated Club any dispute between it and a Club or the League the cause of
action of which arose while the Relegated Club was a member of the League),
whether arising out of these Rules or otherwise, to final and binding arbitration in
accordance with the provisions of the Act and this Section of these Rules;
X.2.2.
that the seat of each such arbitration shall be in England and Wales;
X.2.3. that the issues in each such arbitration shall be decided in accordance with
English law;
X.2.4. that no other system or mode of arbitration will be invoked to resolve any
such dispute.
X.3.
Disputes under these Rules will be deemed to fall into one of three categories, being:
X.3.1.
disputes arising from decisions of Commissions or Appeal Boards made
pursuant to Rules W.1 to W.82 (Disciplinary Procedures) of these Rules
(Disciplinary Disputes);
X.4.
X.3.2.
disputes arising from the exercise of the Boards discretion (Board Disputes);
X.3.3.
other disputes arising from these Rules or otherwise.
In the case of a Disciplinary Dispute, the only grounds for review of a decision of a Commission
or Appeal Board shall be that the decision was:
X.4.1.
reached outside of the jurisdiction of the body that made the decision; or
X.4.2.
reached as a result of fraud, malice or bad faith; or
X.4.3. reached as a result of procedural errors so great that the rights of the applicant
have been clearly and substantially prejudiced; or
X.4.4.
reached as a result of a perverse interpretation of the law; or
X.4.5. one which could not reasonably have been reached by any tribunal which had
applied its mind properly to the facts of the case.
X.5.
In the case of a Board Dispute, the only grounds for review shall be that the decision:
X.5.1.
was reached outside the jurisdiction of the Board; or
X.5.2. could not have been reached by any reasonable Board which had applied its mind
properly to the issues to be decided; or
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SECTION X: ARBITRATION
X.5.3.
was reached as a result of fraud, malice or bad faith; or
X.5.4.
was contrary to English law; and
Standing
X.6.
A person who is not a party to a Disciplinary Dispute or a Board Dispute may not invoke these
arbitration provisions in respect of such a dispute, unless that party can show that they are
sufficiently affected by the outcome of the dispute that it is right and proper for them to have
standing before the tribunal.
Commencement of the Arbitration
X.7.
An arbitration shall be deemed to have commenced and for the purpose of Rule X.2 a dispute
shall be deemed to have arisen upon the party requesting an arbitration serving upon the
other party a request in Form 39.
X.8.
The party requesting an arbitration shall send a copy of Form 39 to the Secretary who shall
forthwith send to each party particulars of those persons who are members of the Panel.
Appointing the Arbitrators
X.9.
Subject to Rule X.15, the tribunal shall comprise 3 members of the Panel and there shall be
no umpire.
X.10.
Within 14 days of the Secretary sending particulars of the Panel pursuant to Rule Y.4 each
party shall by notice in Form 40 addressed to the Secretary appoint one Panel member to
act as an arbitrator in the arbitration requested.
X.11.
Within 14 days of their appointment the 2 arbitrators so appointed shall appoint the third
arbitrator who shall be a legally qualified member of the Panel and who shall sit as chairman.
If the 2 arbitrators so appointed fail to agree on the appointment of the third arbitrator the
Board (or the Football Association if the League is a party) shall make the appointment giving
notice in writing to that effect to each party.
X.12.
If a party, other than the League or a Club, does not wish to appoint a member of the Panel
as their nominated arbitrator, they may nominate some other person provided that:
X.12.1. that the person they nominate is a solicitor of no less than 10 years admission or
a barrister of no less than 10 years call; and
X.12.2. such person is independent of the party appointing him and able to render an
impartial decision.
X.13.
If a party refuses or fails to appoint an arbitrator when it is obliged to do so in accordance
with these Rules the Board (or the Football Association if the League is a party) shall make
the appointment giving notice in writing to that effect to each party.
X.14.
Upon appointment all arbitrators must sign a statement of impartiality. Any arbitrator not
signing such a statement within 7 days of appointment may not act and the party appointing
him must nominate another arbitrator within 7 days.
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directly and foreseeably prejudices the interests of a person or persons who were in the
contemplation of the Board at the time that the decision was made as being directly affected
by it and who suffer loss as a result of that decision.
SECTION X: ARBITRATION
Appointing a Single Arbitrator
PREMIER LEAGUE RULES: SECTION X
X.15.
Notwithstanding the provisions of Rule X.9, the parties shall be at liberty to appoint a legally
qualified member of the Panel to be a single arbitrator in which case:
X.15.1.
Form 41 shall be substituted for Form 40; and
X.15.2. this Section of these Rules shall be interpreted on the basis that the tribunal
comprises a single arbitrator who shall undertake the duties of the chairman.
Replacing an Arbitrator
X.16.
If following his appointment an arbitrator refuses to act, becomes incapable of acting, is
removed by order of a competent court or dies, or if his membership of the Panel is terminated
pursuant to Rule W.19, the Board (or the Football Association if the League is a party) shall
appoint a member of the Panel to replace him.
Communications
X.17.
All communications sent in the course of the arbitration by the arbitrators shall be signed on
their behalf by the chairman.
X.18.
Such communications addressed by the arbitrators to one party shall be copied to the other.
X.19.
Any communication sent by either party to the arbitrators shall be addressed to the chairman
and shall be copied to the other party.
Directions
X.20.
The chairman of the tribunal shall decide all procedural and evidential matters and for that
purpose within 14 days of his appointment he shall either give directions for the conduct of
the arbitration addressed in writing to each party or serve on each party Form 42 requiring
their attendance at a preliminary meeting at which he will give directions. In either case the
directions shall include without limitation:
X.20.1. whether and if so in what form and when statements of claim and defence are to
be used;
X.20.2. whether and if so to what extent discovery of documents between the parties is
necessary;
X.20.3. whether strict rules of evidence will apply and how the admissibility, relevance or
weight of any material submitted by the parties on matters of fact or opinion shall
be determined;
X.20.4. whether and if so to what extent there shall be oral or written evidence or
submissions;
X.20.5.
whether expert evidence is required;
X.20.6. whether and if so to what extent the tribunal shall itself take the initiative in
ascertaining the facts and the law.
The Tribunals General Powers
X.21.
The chairman of the tribunal shall have power to:
X.21.1. allow either party upon such terms (as to costs and otherwise) as it shall think fit
to amend any statement of claim and defence;
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SECTION X: ARBITRATION
X.21.2. give directions in relation to the preservation, custody, detention, inspection or
photographing of property owned by or in the possession of a party to the
proceedings;
X.21.4.
direct that a witness be examined on oath;
X.21.5.
require each party to give notice of the identity of witnesses it intends to call;
X.21.6.
require exchange of witness statements and any experts reports;
X.21.7.
appoint one or more experts to report to it on specific issues;
X.21.8. require a party to give any such expert any relevant information or to produce or
provide access to any relevant documents or property;
X.21.9.
order that a transcript be taken of the proceedings;
X.21.10. extend or abbreviate any time limits provided by this Section of these Rules or by
its directions;
X.21.11. require the parties to attend such procedural meetings as it deems necessary to
identify or clarify the issues to be decided and the procedures to be adopted;
X.21.12. give such other lawful directions as it shall deem necessary to ensure the just,
expeditious, economical and final determination of the dispute.
Duty of the Parties
X.22.
The parties shall do all things necessary for the proper and expeditious conduct of the
arbitration and shall comply without delay with any direction of the chairman of the tribunal
as to procedural or evidential matters.
Default of the Parties
X.23.
If either party is in breach of Rule X.22 the tribunal shall have power to:
X.23.1.
make peremptory orders prescribing a time for compliance;
X.23.2.
make orders against a party which fails to comply with a peremptory order;
X.23.3. dismiss a claim for want of prosecution in the event of inordinate or inexcusable
delay by a party which appears likely to give rise to a substantial risk that it will not
be possible to have a fair resolution of the issues or will cause serious prejudice to
the other party;
X.23.4. debar that party from further participation and proceed with the arbitration and
make an award but only after giving that party written notice of its intention to do so.
The Hearing
X.24.
The chairman shall fix the date, time and place of the arbitration hearing and shall give the
parties reasonable notice thereof.
X.25.
At or before the hearing the chairman shall determine the order in which the parties shall
present their cases.
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PREMIER LEAGUE RULES: SECTION X
X.21.3. give directions as to the preservation of evidence in the custody or control of a
party;
SECTION X: ARBITRATION
X.26.
Any witness who gives oral evidence may be questioned by the representative of each party
and by each of the arbitrators.
PREMIER LEAGUE RULES: SECTION X
Remedies
X.27.
The tribunal shall have power to:
X.27.1.
determine any question of law or fact arising in the course of the arbitration;
X.27.2.
determine any question as to its own jurisdiction;
X.27.3.
make a declaration as to any matter to be determined in the proceedings;
X.27.4.
order the payment of a sum of money;
X.27.5.
award simple or compound interest;
X.27.6.
order a party to do or refrain from doing anything;
X.27.7.
order specific performance of a contract (other than a contract relating to land);
X.27.8.
order the rectification, setting aside or cancellation of a deed or other document.
Majority Decision
X.28.
If the arbitrators fail to agree on any issue they shall decide by a majority and a majority
decision shall be binding on all of them. No dissenting judgment shall be produced.
Provisional Awards
X.29.
The tribunal shall have power to make provisional awards during the proceedings including
without limitation requiring a party to make an interim payment on account of the claim or
the costs of the arbitration. Any such provisional award shall be taken into account when the
final award is made.
The Award
X.30.
If before the award is made the parties agree on a settlement of the dispute the tribunal shall
record the settlement in the form of a consent award.
X.31.
The tribunal may make more than one award at different times on different aspects of the
matters in dispute.
X.32.
The award shall be in writing and shall contain reasons for the tribunals decision.
Costs
X.33.
Until they are paid in full, the parties shall be jointly and severally liable to meet the
arbitrators fees and expenses, the total amount of which shall be specified in the award.
X.34.
The tribunal shall award costs on the general principle that costs should follow the event
except where it appears to the tribunal that in the circumstances this is not appropriate in
relation to the whole or part of the costs.
X.35.
The party in favour of which an order for costs is made shall be allowed, subject to Rule X.36,
a reasonable amount in respect of all costs reasonably incurred, any doubt as to
reasonableness being resolved in favour of the paying party.
X.36.
In appropriate cases the tribunal may award costs on an indemnity basis.
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SECTION X: ARBITRATION
X.37.
The chairman shall have power to tax, assess or determine the costs if requested to do so by
either party.
Challenging the Award
Subject to the provisions of Sections 67 to 71 of the Act, the award shall be final and binding
on the parties and there shall be no right of appeal. There shall be no right of appeal on a
point of law under Section 69 of the Act.
Representation
X.39.
A party may be represented before a tribunal by a solicitor or counsel provided that 14 days
prior written notice to that effect identifying the solicitor or counsel instructed is given to the
other party and to the chairman.
X.40.
A Club which is a party may be represented before a tribunal by one of its Officials. An
Official shall not be prevented from representing his Club because he is or may be a witness
in the proceedings.
Waiver
X.41.
A party which is aware of non-compliance with this Section of these Rules and yet proceeds
with the arbitration without promptly stating its objection to such non-compliance to the
chairman shall be deemed to have waived its right to object.
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X.38.
DISCIPLINARY AND THE RESOLUTION OF DISPUTES
SECTION Y: MANAGERS ARBITRATION TRIBUNAL
PREMIER LEAGUE RULES: SECTION A
Y
Managers Arbitration Tribunal
Y.1.
Any dispute arising between the parties to a Managers contract of employment shall be
determined by the Managers Arbitration Tribunal (in this Section of these Rules referred to
as the Tribunal).
Y.2.
The seat of each arbitration conducted by the Tribunal shall be in England and Wales. Each
such arbitration shall be decided in accordance with English law.
Y.3.
Such an arbitration shall be deemed to have commenced upon the party requesting it
serving on the other party a request in Form 39.
Y.4.
The party requesting such an arbitration shall send a copy of Form 39 together with a deposit
of 5,000 to the Secretary who shall forthwith send to each party particulars of those
persons who are members of the Panel.
Y.5.
The Tribunal shall comprise 3 members of the Panel and there shall be no umpire.
Y.6.
Within 14 days of service of the Secretary sending particulars of the Panel pursuant to Rule
Y.4 each party shall by notice in Form 40 addressed to the Secretary appoint one Panel
member to act as an arbitrator in the arbitration requested.
Y.7.
If a party refuses or fails to appoint an arbitrator in accordance with Rule Y.6 the Board shall
make the appointment giving notice in writing to that effect to each party.
Y.8.
Within 14 days of their appointment the 2 arbitrators so appointed shall appoint a third
arbitrator who shall be a legally qualified member of the Panel and who shall sit as chairman
of the Tribunal. If the 2 arbitrators so appointed fail to agree on the appointment of the third
arbitrator the Board shall make the appointment giving notice in writing to that effect to
each party.
Y.9.
If following his appointment an arbitrator refuses to act, becomes incapable of acting, is
removed by order of a competent court or dies, the Board shall appoint a member of the
Panel to replace him.
Y.10.
All communications sent in the course of the arbitration by the Tribunal shall be signed on its
behalf by its chairman.
Y.11.
Such communications addressed by the Tribunal to one party shall be copied to the other.
Y.12.
Any communications sent by either party to the Tribunal shall be addressed to its chairman
and shall be copied to the other party.
Y.13.
The chairman of the Tribunal shall decide all procedural and evidential matters and for that
purpose within 14 days of his appointment he shall serve on each party Form 42 requiring
their attendance at a preliminary meeting at which he will give directions including, but not
limited to, those set out in Rule X.20.
Y.14.
The chairman of the Tribunal shall have the powers set out in Rule X.21.
Y.15.
The parties shall do all things necessary for the proper and expeditious conduct of the
arbitration and shall comply without delay with any direction of the chairman of the Tribunal
as to procedural or evidential matters.
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SECTION Y: MANAGERS ARBITRATION TRIBUNAL
Y.16.
If either party is in breach of Rule Y.15 the Tribunal shall have power to:
Y.16.1.
make peremptory orders prescribing a time for compliance;
Y.16.2.
make orders against a party which fails to comply with a peremptory order;
Y.16.4. debar that party from further participation and proceed with the arbitration
and make an award but only after giving that party written notice of its intention
to do so.
Y.17.
The chairman of the Tribunal shall fix the date, time and place of the arbitration hearing and
shall give the parties reasonable notice thereof. In order to allow the parties time in which to
fulfil their obligation to attempt to reach a settlement of the dispute by mediation, the
hearing shall not take place before the expiry of 42 days from the deemed commencement
of the arbitration.
Y.18.
At or before the hearing the chairman of the Tribunal shall determine the order in which the
parties shall present their cases.
Y.19.
Any witness who gives oral evidence may be questioned by the representative of each party
and by each of the arbitrators.
Y.20.
Except for the power to order specific performance of a contract, the Tribunal shall have the
powers set out in Rule X.27 together with the following additional powers:
Y.20.1.
to order the cancellation of the registration of the Managers contract of
employment;
Y.21.
Y.20.2.
to order that the deposit be forfeited by or returned to the party paying it;
Y.20.3.
to make such other order as it thinks fit.
The provisions of Rules X.28 to X.41 inclusive, substituting Tribunal for tribunal and
chairman of the Tribunal for chairman, shall apply to proceedings of the Tribunal. In
exercising its power to award costs the Tribunal shall have regard to the extent to which each
of the parties fulfilled their obligation to attempt to reach a settlement of the dispute by
mediation.
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PREMIER LEAGUE RULES: SECTION A
Y
Y.16.3. dismiss a claim for want of prosecution in the event of inordinate or inexcusable
delay by a party which appears likely to give rise to a substantial risk that it will not
be possible to have a fair resolution of the issues or will cause serious prejudice to
the other party;
DISCIPLINARY AND THE RESOLUTION OF DISPUTES
SECTION Z: PREMIER LEAGUE APPEALS COMMITTEE
Jurisdiction
Z.1.
The Premier League Appeals Committee (hereafter in this Section of these Rules called the
Committee) shall determine the following matters:
PREMIER LEAGUE RULES: SECTION A
Z
Z.1.1. an appeal by a Club or a Contract Player under the provisions of clause 19(d) of
Form 25 (Players Contract);
Z.1.2. an appeal by a Club or an Academy Player under the provisions of Youth
Development Rule 301;
Z.1.3. an appeal by a Club or a Contract Player under the provisions of Rule T.18.3
against a decision of the Board regarding payment of the balance of a Signing-on
Fee to the Contract Player;
Z.1.4. an appeal by a Club or a Contract Player under the provisions of Rule T.36 against
a decision of the Board given under either Rule T.30 or Rule T.31;
Z.1.5. an application by a Club under the provisions of Rule V.22 that payments to an
Out of Contract Player may cease without affecting the Clubs entitlement to a
Compensation Fee.
Composition of the Committee
Z.2.
The Committee shall be composed of:
Z.2.1. an independent chairman who holds or has held judicial office and who, with the
prior approval of the Professional Footballers Association, shall be appointed by
the Board in such terms as it thinks fit;
Z.2.2.
a member of the Panel appointed by the League;
Z.2.3. an appointee of the Professional Footballers Association provided that in cases
where an officer or employee of that Association is appearing before the
Committee representing a party to the proceedings then the appointee shall not
be an officer or employee of the Association.
Z.3.
If the chairman of the Committee is unable to act or to continue acting as such in the
determination of any matter, the Board shall appoint in his stead a member of the Panel who
holds or has held judicial office.
Z.4.
If following his appointment any other member of the Committee is unable to act or to
continue acting, his appointer may appoint a replacement so that the composition of the
Committee is maintained as provided in Rule Z.2.
Z.5.
If the members of the Committee fail to agree on any issue, they shall decide by a majority.
Committee Procedures
Z.6.
The parties to proceedings before the Committee shall be:
Z.6.1.
in an appeal under Rule Z.1.1, Z.1.2, Z.1.3 or Z.1.4:
Z.6.1.1. the appellant Club or Contract Player; and
Z.6.1.2. the respondent Contract Player or Club;
224
SECTION Z: PREMIER LEAGUE APPEALS COMMITTEE
Z.6.2.
in the determination of a dispute under Rule Z.1.4:
Z.6.2.1. the applicant Club or Player; and
Z.6.2.2. the respondent Player or Club;
in an appeal under Rule Z.1.1:
PREMIER LEAGUE RULES: SECTION A
Z
Z.6.3.
Z.6.3.1. the appellant Club or Academy Player; and
Z.6.3.2. the respondent Academy Player or Club;
Z.6.4.
in an application under Rule Z.1.5:
Z.6.4.1. the applicant Club; and
Z.6.4.2. the respondent Out of Contract Player.
Z.7.
Proceedings shall be commenced by an application in writing to the Secretary identifying:
Z.7.1.
the respondent;
Z.7.2.
the Rule under the provisions of which the appeal or application is made;
Z.7.3.
the nature of the appeal or application and the facts surrounding it;
Z.7.4.
the remedy or relief sought; and
Z.7.5.
any documents relied upon, copies of which shall be annexed.
Z.8.
Except in the case of an application made by an Academy Player, an application made under
the provisions of Rule Z.7 shall be accompanied by a deposit of 1,000.
Z.9.
Upon receipt of an application the Secretary shall:
Z.9.1. procure that for the purpose of determining the application the Committee is
composed in accordance with Rule Z.2;
Z.9.2. send a copy of the application and any documents annexed to it to the chairman
and members of the Committee;
Z.9.3.
send a copy of the same by recorded delivery post to the respondent.
Z.10.
Within 14 days of receipt of the copy application the respondent shall send to the Secretary
by recorded delivery post a written response to the application, annexing thereto copies of
any documents relied upon.
Z.11.
Upon receipt of the response the Secretary shall send a copy thereof together with a copy of
any document annexed to:
Z.11.1.
the chairman and members of the Committee; and
Z.11.2.
the party making the application.
Z.12.
The chairman of the Committee may give directions as he thinks fit for the future conduct of
the proceedings addressed in writing to the parties with which the parties shall comply
without delay.
Z.13.
The Committee by its chairman shall have power to summon any person to attend the
hearing of the proceedings to give evidence and to produce documents and any person who
is bound by these Rules and who, having been summoned, fails to attend or to give evidence
or to produce documents shall be in breach of these Rules.
225
PREMIER LEAGUE RULES: SECTION A
Z
SECTION Z: PREMIER LEAGUE APPEALS COMMITTEE
Z.14.
The Secretary shall make all necessary arrangements for the hearing of the proceedings and
shall give written notice of the date, time and place thereof to the parties.
Z.15.
If a party to the proceedings fails to attend the hearing the Committee may either adjourn it
or proceed in their absence.
Z.16.
The chairman of the Committee shall have an overriding discretion as to the manner in which
the hearing of the proceedings shall be conducted.
Z.17.
The Committee shall not be bound by any enactment or rule of law relating to the
admissibility of evidence in proceedings before a court of law.
Z.18.
The hearing shall be conducted in private.
Z.19.
Each party shall be entitled to be represented at the hearing by a solicitor or counsel provided
that they shall have given to the other party and to the chairman of the Committee 14 days
prior written notice to that effect.
Z.20.
The Committees decision shall be announced as soon as practicable and if possible at the
end of the hearing and shall be confirmed in writing by the Secretary to the parties.
Z.21.
The Committee shall give reasons for its decision.
Z.22.
The decision of the Committee shall be final and binding.
Fees and Expenses
Z.23.
The chairman and members of the Committee shall be entitled to receive from the League a
reasonable sum by way of fees and expenses.
Committees Powers
Z.24.
Upon determining an application made in accordance with the provisions of this Section of
these Rules, the Committee may:
Z.24.1. order the deposit required by Rule Z.8 to be forfeited to the League or repaid to
the applicant;
Z.24.2. order either party to pay to the other such sum by way of costs as it shall think fit
which may include the fees and expenses of the chairman and members of the
Committee paid or payable under Rule Z.23;
Z.24.3.
226
make such other order as it shall think fit.
SECTION Z: PREMIER LEAGUE APPEALS COMMITTEE
PREMIER LEAGUE RULES: SECTION A
Z
227
228
PREMIER LEAGUE FORMS
PREMIER LEAGUE FORMS
PREMIER LEAGUE
FORMS
PREMIER LEAGUE
Form 1
LIST OF AUTHORISED SIGNATORIES OF
FOOTBALL CLUB
(Rule A.1.17)
To:
The Secretary
The Premier League
The following Officials of the Club are Authorised Signatories:
Position
Signature
PREMIER LEAGUE FORMS
Print Name
* I n particular, please indicate if the individual is
an Authorised Signatory for the purposes of an
application for a UEFA Club Licence.
Signed
Position
Date
230
Limit of Authority (if any)
PREMIER LEAGUE
Form 2
NOTIFICATION OF CLUB BANK ACCOUNT (Rule E.2)
To:
The Secretary
The Premier League
We confirm on behalf of the board of Football Club that
the following bank account is the Clubs bank account for the purposes of Rule E.2:
PREMIER LEAGUE FORMS
Name of Bank
Name of account holder
Title of account
Sort code
Account number
Signed by a Director of the Club
Date
Signed by a Director of the Club
Date
231
PREMIER LEAGUE
Form 3
RETURN OF PLAYER SERVICES COSTS AND IMAGE CONTRACT PAYMENTS
BY FOOTBALL CLUB (Rule E.20)
To:
The Secretary, The Premier League
PREMIER LEAGUE FORMS
Full particulars of all payments made to and all benefits provided to each of our Contract Players and
all Image Contract Payments in the Contract Year ended 30th June
are as follows:
SUMMARY
Name
Salary
Other
Total
Total
I certify on behalf of
is correct.
Football Club that the information given on this form
Signed
Position
Date
NOTE: The following terms which are used in this Form 3 are defined in the Premier League Rules: Accounting
Reference Period, Annual Accounts, Contract Player, Contract Year, Image Contract Payment, Player Services
Costs and Signing-on Fee.
232
Form 3
SALARY
Name
Total
Employers NIC
Contracted
Salary
Actual Salary
PREMIER LEAGUE FORMS
Adjustments
to contracted
salary
Total Salary and bonuses - inc Employers NIC
Signed
Position
Date
Signing-on
Fees
Loyalty
Bonuses
Other Bonus
Appearance
Fees
Total Salary
and Bonuses
()
233
PREMIER LEAGUE
Form 3
RETURN OF PLAYER SERVICES COSTS AND IMAGE CONTRACT PAYMENTS
OTHER
PREMIER LEAGUE FORMS
Name
Total Other Costs
Signed
Position
Date
234
Pension
Arrangements
P11d benefits
(based on latest
tax year)
Image Contract
Payments
Total other costs
PREMIER LEAGUE
Form 3
RETURN OF PLAYER SERVICES COSTS AND IMAGE CONTRACT PAYMENTS
Reconciliation
Total Staff costs as per annual accounts
Less: Non playing staff
PREMIER LEAGUE FORMS
Player Services Costs and Image Contract Payments per
Annual Accounts for the Accounting Reference Period ending .
Add: Applicable post-Contract Year
Less: Applicable pre-Contract Year
Total Costs per Form 3
Signed
Position
Date
235
PREMIER LEAGUE
Form 4
APPEAL UNDER RULE E.40
To:
The Secretary
Date
The Premier League
PREMIER LEAGUE FORMS
We, [insert name of Club] (the Club) hereby appeal against the
deduction of 9 points notified to us by the Board on [date]
on the ground
that the event of insolvency was caused by and resulted directly from circumstances, other than
normal business risks, over which the Club could not reasonably be expected to have had control
and its Officials had used all due diligence to avoid the happening of that event.
Brief details of the circumstances that led to the event of insolvency are set out on the
attached sheet(s).
A deposit of 1,000 is enclosed.
Signed
Position
236
Form 4A
CALCULATION OF AGGREGATED ADJUSTED EARNINGS BEFORE TAX
(Rule E.53.3)
Reporting Period: 36 months ending on
20.
T-2
T-1
Total
Actual / forecast profit / loss before tax
Add back:
PREMIER LEAGUE FORMS
Depreciation / impairment of tangible fixed assets
Amortisation or impairment of goodwill and other
intangible assets (excluding amortisation of the
costs of players registrations)
Youth Development Expenditure
Community Development Expenditure
Adjusted Earnings Before Tax
Statement on behalf of the Board of Directors of the Club
On behalf of the board of directors of
Football Club, I confirm in
respect of the [Clubs] OR [the Groups (of which the Club is a member)] accounting period of 36 months
ended on 20. that [with the exception(s) noted below]:
1.
2.
The above calculation of Adjusted Earnings Before Tax has been prepared in accordance with the
Rules of the Premier League;
Without prejudice to the generality of paragraph 1 above, the estimated figures for T in the above
calculation have been prepared:
2.1 in all material respects in a format similar to the Clubs Annual Accounts; and
2.2 are based on the latest information available to the Club and are, to the best of the Clubs
knowledge and belief, an accurate estimate as at the time of preparation of future financial
performance.
[The exception(s) referred to above is/are as follows:
For and on behalf of the board of directors of
Signed
..
Name
..
Position
..
Football Club
To be signed by a director of the Club whose particulars are registered under the provisions section 162 of
the Companies Act 2006.
Date
..
237
PREMIER LEAGUE
Form 5
OWNERS AND DIRECTORS DECLARATION (Rules A.1.55, F.2 and F.3)
To:
The Secretary
The Premier League
I, (full name)
of
PREMIER LEAGUE FORMS
(post code)
hereby declare that:
1.
I am/propose to become* a Director of
2.
I am/am not* a person having Control over the Club;
(the Club);
3.
I am/am not* either directly or indirectly involved in or have power to determine or influence the
management or administration of another Club or Football League club;
4.
I hold/do not hold* either directly or indirectly a Significant Interest in a Club while either directly
or indirectly holding an interest in any class of Shares of another Club;
5.
I hold/do not hold* either directly or indirectly a Significant Interest in a club (and in this
Declaration 5, Significant Interest shall be construed as if references to the Club in that
definition at Rule A.1.151, were references to the club).
6.
I am/am not* prohibited by law from being a director as set out in Rule F.1.3;
7.
I have/have not* been Convicted of an offence set out in Premier League Rule F.1.4;
8.
I have/have not* been the subject of any of the arrangements, orders, plans or provisions set out
in Rule F.1.5 or F.1.6;
9.
I have/have not*
9.1 been a Director of a Club which, while I have been a Director of it, suffered 2 or more
unconnected Events of Insolvency;
9.2 been a Director of a Club which, while I have been a Director of it, suffered 2 or more
unconnected Events of Insolvency (and in this Declaration 9.2 the definitions of Director at
Rule A.1.56. and Events of Insolvency at Rule A.1.60. shall be construed as if references to
the Club in those definitions were references to the club);
10. I have/have not*been a Director of 2 or more Clubs or clubs each of which, while I have been a
Director of them, has suffered an Event of Insolvency (and in this Declaration 9 the definitions of
Director at Rule A.1.56. and Events of Insolvency at Rule A.1.60. shall be deemed to apply to clubs
in the same way as to Clubs);
11. I am/am not* subject to a suspension or ban from involvement in the administration of a sport as
set out in Rule F.1.9;
12. I am/am not* subject to any form of suspension, disqualification or striking-off by a professional
body as set out in Rule F.1.10;
13. I am/am not* required to notify personal information pursuant to Part 2 of the Sexual Offences
Act 2003;
14. I have/have not*been found to have breached any of the rules set out in Rule F.1.12;
238
PREMIER LEAGUE
Form 5
OWNERS AND DIRECTORS DECLARATION (Rules A.1.55, F.2 and F.3)
15. This Declaration is true in every particular.
I consent pursuant to Schedule 2 and Schedule 3 of the Data Protection Act 1998 to the Football Association
Premier League Limited holding and processing the above personal data and sensitive data for the purpose of
discharging its functions as a regulatory and governing body of football.
Signed by the Director
Date
Signed by an Authorised Signatory
Date
* delete as appropriate
239
PREMIER LEAGUE FORMS
I understand that the words Convicted, Club, club, Control, Declaration, Director, Event of
Insolvency, Shares and Significant Interest (together with any other defined terms comprising any
part of these definitions) have the meanings set out in the Rules of the Premier League.
PREMIER LEAGUE
Form 6
DUAL INTEREST NOTICE (Rules G.1 and G.4)
To:
The Secretary
Date:
The Premier League
PREMIER LEAGUE FORMS
Pursuant to Rule G.1 we hereby give notice that a Person
*holds
*has acquired
*has ceased to hold
a Significant Interest in
Football Club.
The particulars required by Rule G.4 are as follows:
1.
The Person holding/acquiring/ceasing to hold* a Significant Interest in the Club is
(name)
of (address)
2.
The details of the Significant Interest are as follows
3.
The proportion (expressed in percentage terms) which the Shares bear to the total number of
Shares of that class in issue is %
4.
The proportion (expressed in percentage terms) which the Shares bear to the total number of
issued Shares of the Club is
%
This notice is given on the basis that the words Club Holding Person Shares Significant Interest
(together with any other defined terms comprising any part of the definitions set out therein) have the
meanings set out in the Rules of the Premier League.
Signed
* delete as appropriate
240
Position
PREMIER LEAGUE
Form 7
DIRECTORS REPORT (Rule H.6, H.7, H.8, H.9)
To:
The Football Association Premier League Limited (the League)
(1) were negotiated and approved in accordance with the Clubs written transfer policy; and
(2) have been documented and recorded as required by relevant provisions of these Rules
and the Football Association Rules.
[The exception(s) referred to above is/are as follows
[Signature of each Director and date of signing]
241
PREMIER LEAGUE FORMS
In accordance with the requirements of Section H of the Rules of the League, we, the Directors of
Football Club Limited (the Club), hereby report in respect of the
Clubs accounting period of
months ended on
20
(the Period
of Review) that [with the exception(s) noted below] all Material Transactions entered into by
the Club during the Period of Review:
PREMIER LEAGUE
Form 8
PREMIER LEAGUE FORMS
REGISTRATION OF PITCH DIMENSIONS BY
FOOTBALL CLUB (Rule K.18)
To:
The Secretary
The Premier League
The dimensions of our pitch at [address of ground]
for Season 20 /20 are as follows:
Length:
Width:
yards
(
yards (
metres)
metres)
Signed
Position
Date
242
PREMIER LEAGUE
Form 8A
ANNUAL FLOODLIGHTING REPORT (RULE K.124)
Name of Club:
Date of inspection:
Time of inspection:
Illuminance Meter:
Serial Number:
PREMIER LEAGUE FORMS
Calibration Date:
Colour Meter:
Serial Number:
Calibration Date:
Pitch measurements:
Weather conditions:
Illuminance Test Company:
Address:
Phone / email:
Inspection by:
Signature:
243
PREMIER LEAGUE
Form 8A
ANNUAL FLOODLIGHTING REPORT (RULE K.124)
Measurement
Average vertical lux reading
towards the principal camera
Stadium Value
Requirement
1650
PREMIER LEAGUE FORMS
Maximum value
Minimum value
1000
Uniformity U1v
>0.5
Uniformity U2v
>0.6
Average vertical lux reading (0/360)
1000
Maximum value (0/360)
Minimum value (0/360)
650
Uniformity U1v
>0.5
Uniformity U2v
>0.6
Average vertical lux reading (90)
1000
Maximum value (90)
Minimum value (90)
650
Uniformity U1v
>0.5
Uniformity U2v
>0.6
Average vertical lux reading (180)
1000
Maximum value (180)
Minimum value (180)
650
Uniformity U1v
>0.5
Uniformity U2v
>0.6
244
PREMIER LEAGUE
Form 8A
ANNUAL FLOODLIGHTING REPORT (RULE K.124)
Average vertical lux reading (270)
1000
Maximum value (270)
650
Uniformity U1v
>0.5
Uniformity U2v
>0.6
Seating Values
Colour rendering (Ra)
Colour temperature (Tk)
Flicker
PREMIER LEAGUE FORMS
Minimum value (270)
10-30% of the pitch values,
i.e. 165-495 based on 1650
>80
>5200Tk
<6%
Back-up power supply
(Second grid source/Generator/UPS)
Back-up operation
(parallel/standby/standby running)
Is the switchover process
(grid to back-up) automatic:
Please describe the process of back-up
operation in case of a grid power failure:
245
PREMIER LEAGUE
Form 8A
ANNUAL FLOODLIGHTING REPORT (RULE K.124)
Vertical Lux Towards the Principal Camera
Average
Maximum
Minimum
PREMIER LEAGUE FORMS
U1v
U2v
246
PREMIER LEAGUE
Form 8A
ANNUAL FLOODLIGHTING REPORT (RULE K.124)
Vertical Lux (0/360)
Average
Maximum
Minimum
U1v
PREMIER LEAGUE FORMS
U2v
247
PREMIER LEAGUE
Form 8A
ANNUAL FLOODLIGHTING REPORT (RULE K.124)
Vertical Lux (90)
Average
Maximum
Minimum
PREMIER LEAGUE FORMS
U1v
U2v
248
PREMIER LEAGUE
Form 8A
ANNUAL FLOODLIGHTING REPORT (RULE K.124)
Vertical Lux (180)
Average
Maximum
Minimum
U1v
PREMIER LEAGUE FORMS
U2v
249
PREMIER LEAGUE
Form 8A
ANNUAL FLOODLIGHTING REPORT (RULE K.124)
Vertical Lux (270)
Average
Maximum
Minimum
PREMIER LEAGUE FORMS
U1v
U2v
250
PREMIER LEAGUE
Form 9
TEAM SHEET OF FOOTBALL CLUB (Rule L.21)
Date Kick-off time
Opponents F.C.
Referee
SHIRT NO.
NAME
TEAM
PREMIER LEAGUE FORMS
SHIRT NO.
NAME
REPLACED
TIME
SUBSTITUTES
NAME
JOB TITLE
OFFICIALS OCCUPYING
THE TRAINERS BENCH
COLOUR OF STRIP
Signed
Shirts
Shorts
Stockings
Goalkeepers
Shirt
Goalkeepers
Stockings
Position
251
PREMIER LEAGUE
Form 10
PREMIER LEAGUE FORMS
NOTIFICATION OF LEAGUE MATCH RESULT (Rule L.37)
SEASON 20 - 20
Date of Match
Home Club F.C.
Result: Home Club goals
Visiting Club
Visiting Club
F.C.
goals
Signed
Secretary of
F.C.
TEAM
[Please complete in block letters]
Surname
Initials
Goalkeeper
Nominated Substitutes
was substitute for
was substitute for
was substitute for
* indicate time goal(s) scored and where goal(s) resulted from a penalty kick
252
Goalscorers*
PREMIER LEAGUE
Form 11
GATE STATEMENT (Rule L.38)
SEASON 20 - 20
Date of Match
Home Club F.C.
Visiting Club
TICKETS ISSUED AND ATTENDANCE
Home
Club
Visiting
Club
F.C.
TOTAL
PREMIER LEAGUE FORMS
Home Adults
Home Junior Concession
Home Senior Concession
Home Total Concessions
Home Other
Season tickets
Complimentary Season tickets
Complimentary Match day
Away tickets
Total No. of tickets issued
No. of spectators attending*
0
0
RECEIPTS**
Value of ticket sales
Signed
Position
Date
* including hospitality
** net of VAT
253
PREMIER LEAGUE
Form 12
NOTIFICATION OF SHIRT NUMBERS ALLOCATED
BY FOOTBALL CLUB (Rule M.6)
To:
The Secretary
The Premier League
The shirt numbers allocated to members of our First Team squad in Season 20
PREMIER LEAGUE FORMS
Shirt No.
Name
Shirt No.
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
32
10
33
11
34
12
35
13
36
14
37
15
38
16
39
17
40
18
41
19
42
20
43
21
44
22
45
23
46
/20
are as follows:
Name
I undertake to give your prompt notice of any deletions from or additions to the above list occurring
during the Season.
Signed
Position
Date
254
PREMIER LEAGUE
REGISTRATION OF STRIPS
BY
To:
Form 13
FOOTBALL CLUB (Rule M.17)
The Secretary
The Premier League
/20
PREMIER LEAGUE FORMS
I submit herewith samples of our home Strip, alternative Strip(s) and goalkeepers Strip for Season 20
A brief description of each is as follows:
Home Strip
Shirts :
Shorts :
Stockings :
Goalkeeper :
Alternative Strip 1
Shirts :
Shorts :
Stockings :
Goalkeeper :
Alternative Strip 2*
Shirts :
Shorts :
Stockings :
Goalkeeper :
Signed
Position
Date
* delete if inapplicable
255
PREMIER LEAGUE
Form 14
NOTIFICATION BY VISITING CLUB TO HOME CLUB OF STRIP (Rule M.24)
PREMIER LEAGUE FORMS
To:
[Name and address of Home Club]
Please take notice that at our League Match against you on [date of match]
wear the following Strip:
Outfield Players
Shirts :
Shorts :
Stockings :
Goalkeeper
Shirts :
Shorts :
Stockings :
Signed
Position
Date
256
, our team will
PREMIER LEAGUE
Form 15
APPOINTMENT OF MATCH OFFICIALS (Rule N.3)
To:
[Name and address of Match Official]
PREMIER LEAGUE FORMS
You are hereby appointed to officiate as Referee/Assistant Referee/Reserve Official/Fourth Official* at the
following League Matches:
Date
Home Club
Visiting Club
Venue
The Home Club will in each case give you notice of the kick-off time.
Please acknowledge receipt of this appointment to me forthwith.
Signed
Secretary
Date
* delete as appropriate
257
PREMIER LEAGUE
Form 16
SCOUT REGISTRATION FORM (Rule Q.3)
Scouts Particulars
Surname Other name(s)
Address
PREMIER LEAGUE FORMS
Post Code
Date of birth
Application to Register
We hereby apply for the above-named to be registered as a Scout whose registration is held by
Football Club.
Signed
Authorised Signatory
Date
Endorsement by Scout
I hereby consent to the above application. I certify that the above particulars are correct. I agree to be bound by
the Rules of the Premier League.
Signed
Date
Secretarys Certificate
I hereby certify that I have this day registered [name of Scout]
as a Scout registered with
Football Club.
Signed
Secretary, the Premier League
Date
258
PREMIER LEAGUE
Form 17
CANCELLATION OF SCOUT REGISTRATION (Rule Q.6)
To:
The Secretary
The Premier League
We,
Football Club, hereby give notice that on [date]
we ceased to employ or engage [name of Scout] and we hereby
apply for his registration to be cancelled.
Authorised Signatory
Date
Secretarys Certificate
I hereby certify that I have this day cancelled the registration of [name of Scout]
with
Football Club and removed his name
from the register of Scouts.
Date
Signed
Secretary, the Premier League
259
PREMIER LEAGUE FORMS
Signed
PREMIER LEAGUE
Form 18
CHILDRENS SAFEGUARDING MANAGER NOTIFICATION (Rule S.8)
To:
The Secretary
The Premier League
From:
The following member of Staff has been designated as Childrens Safeguarding Manager:
PREMIER LEAGUE FORMS
Name:
Signed
Position
Date
260
Football Club
PREMIER LEAGUE
Form 19
STAFF REGISTER (CHILDREN) (Rule S.10.7)
Name of Club
Staff Particulars
Name
Address
Position
Held
Date
Left
PREMIER LEAGUE FORMS
Date of
Date
Rule S.29.4 Started
Clearance
261
PREMIER LEAGUE
Form 20
ADULTS AT RISK SAFEGUARDING MANAGER (Rule S.13)
To:
The Secretary
The Premier League
From:
PREMIER LEAGUE FORMS
The following member of Staff has been designated as Adults at Risk Safeguarding Manager:
Name:
Signed
Position
Date
262
Football Club
PREMIER LEAGUE
Form 21
STAFF REGISTER ADULTS AT RISK (Rule S.14.6)
Name of Club
Staff Particulars
Name
Address
Position
Held
Date
Left
PREMIER LEAGUE FORMS
Date of
Date
Rule S.29.4 Started
Clearance
263
PREMIER LEAGUE
Form 22
PARENTS CONSENT FORM (Rule S.19.1)
PREMIER LEAGUE FORMS
PART 1 to be completed by the Club
Club name Football Club
Description of activity
Date(s) Time(s) Place(s)
PART 2 to be completed by the Parent(s)
I/We [full name(s)]
of [address]
[post code]
the Parent(s) of [childs full name] hereby consent to
him/her taking part in the activity described above and consent pursuant to Schedule 2 and Schedule 3
of the Data Protection Act 1998 to The Football Association Premier League Limited holding and processing
any and all personal data and sensitive personal data relating to the aforementioned child contained
within this Form 22 for the purpose of discharging its functions as a regulatory and governing body of
football. I/We agree to bring him/her to and collect him/her from the activity. He/she understands that it is
important, for safety reasons, to obey any instructions given by the staff in charge of the activity. I/We agree
to [childs first name]
having emergency dental, medical or surgical
treatment (including anaesthetic and blood transfusion) as considered necessary by the medical authorities
present. Set out below are the further particulars requested.
Signed
Date
Childs Particulars
Date of birth
NHS number
Name, address and telephone number of doctor
Date of last tetanus injection
Details of any medical treatment he/she is receiving
Details of any medicine he/she is taking
Details of any diet requirements or other special needs
My/our Particulars
Work address(es)
Work telephone number(s)
Home telephone number/Mobile(s)
Alternative contact person [name]
[address]
[telephone number(s)]
264
20
PREMIER LEAGUE
Form 23
NOTIFICATION OF REFERRAL (Rule S.21)
To: The Head of Safeguarding, The Premier League
And to: The Head of Education and Child Protection, The Football Association
We,
Football Club, hereby notify you that a referral has been
made to the police or to Social Services in respect of a Child involved in an Activity. Particulars are as follows:
PREMIER LEAGUE FORMS
The Child
Full name Address
Post Code
Date of birth
The Activity
Nature of the Activity Date Time
Place
The allegation or incident referred
The police
Date and time of referral
Police force
Address Telephone
Name and rank of officer
Summary of advice received
Social Services
Date and time of referral
Local authority name
Address Telephone
Name and designation of officer
Summary of advice received
ISA and/or County Safeguarding Lead
Date and time of referral
Local authority name
Address Telephone
Name and designation of officer
Summary of advice received
Signed
Position
Date
265
PREMIER LEAGUE
Form 24
LEAD DISCLOSURE OFFICER NOTIFICATION (Rule S.26.1)
To:
The Secretary
The Premier League
From:
The following member of Staff has been designated as Lead Disclosure Officer:
PREMIER LEAGUE FORMS
Name:
Signed
Position
Date
266
Football Club
PREMIER LEAGUE
Form 25
THE FOOTBALL LEAGUE CONTRACT
AN AGREEMENT made the
day of
20
Between
(name)
acting pursuant to Resolution and Authority for and on behalf of the
Football Club (hereinafter referred to as the Club)
(Company Registration No
of the one part and
(name)
of
(address)
Football Player (hereinafter referred to as (the Player) of the other part.
WHEREBY IT IS AGREED AS FOLLOWS:
1.
This Agreement shall remain in force until the 30th day of June 20
unless it shall have
previously been terminated by substitution of a revised agreement of as hereinafter provided.
2.
The Player agrees to play to the best of his ability in all football matches in which he is selected to
play for the Club and to attend at any reasonable place for the purpose of training in accordance
with instructions given by any duly authorised official of the Club.
3.
The Player agrees to attend all matches in which the Club is engaged when directed by any duly
authorised official of the Club.
4.
The Player shall play football solely for the Club or as authorised by the Club or as required under
the Rules of The Football Association and either the Rules of The FA Premier League or the
Regulations of The Football League* dependent on the League in which the Club is in membership.
The Player undertakes to adhere to the Laws of the Game of Association Football in all matches in
which he participates.
5.
The Player agreed to observe the Rules of the Club at all times. The Club and the Player shall
observe and be subject to the Rules of The Football Association and either the Rules of The FA
Premier League or the Regulations of The Football League* as appropriate. In the case of conflict
such Rules and Regulations shall take precedence over this Agreement and over the Rules of
the Club.
267
PREMIER LEAGUE FORMS
of
(address)
PREMIER LEAGUE
Form 25
THE FOOTBALL LEAGUE CONTRACT
PREMIER LEAGUE FORMS
6.
The Club undertakes to provide the Payer at the earliest opportunity with copies of all relevant
Football Association Rules and FA Premier League Rules or Football League* Regulations as
appropriate, the Club Rules for players and any relevant insurance policy applicable to the Player
and to provide him with any subsequent amendments to all the above.
(a) The Player shall not without the written consent of the Club participate professionally in any
other sporting or athletic activity. The Player shall at all times have due regard for the
necessity of his maintaining a high standard of physical fitness and agrees not to indulge in
any sport, activity or practice that might endanger such fitness. The Player shall not infringe
any provision in this regard in any policy of insurance taken out for his benefit or for the
benefit of the Club.
(b) The Player agrees to make himself available for community and public relations involvement
as requested by the Club management, at reasonable times during the period of the contract
(e.g. 2/3 hours per week).
7.
Any incapacity or sickness shall be reported by the Player to the Club immediately and the Club
shall keep a record of any incapacity. The Player shall submit promptly to such medical and dental
examinations as the Club may reasonably require and shall undergo, at no expense to himself, such
treatment as may be prescribed by the medical or dental advisers of the Club in order to restore the
Player to fitness. The Club shall arrange promptly such prescribed and shall ensure that such
treatment is undertaken and completed without expense to the Player notwithstanding that this
Agreement expires after such treatment has been prescribed.
8.
Subject to the provisions of Clause 10, in the event that the Player shall become incapacitated by
reason of sickness or injury the Club shall, unless provision for the continuation of bonus payments
be set out in the Schedule to this Agreement during the period of incapacity, pay to the Player for
the first twenty-eight weeks of incapacity his basic wage as specified in the Schedule plus a sum
equivalent to the amount of sickness benefit which the Club as able to recoup. After twenty-eight
weeks of incapacity the Club shall, unless provision for the continuation of bonus payments be set
out in the Schedule to this Agreement, pay to the Player his basic wage as specified in the Schedule
without reduction for any state sickness or injury benefit that he may receive. The provisions of
this Clause apply only to the playing Season. The Player agrees to notify the Club of any sickness
benefit received after the end of the playing Season in order for the Club to deduct the amount
from the Players gross wage.
9.
In the event that the Player shall suffer permanent incapacity the club shall be entitled to serve a
notice upon the Player terminating the Agreement. The Players minimum entitlement shall be to
receive 6 months notice where the Agreement has not more than 3 years to run with an extra
months notice for each year or part year in excess of the said 3 years, provided that the parties
shall be able to negotiate a longer period of notice if they so wish.
10. The notice may be served at any time after:
(a) the date on which the Player has declared permanently totally disabled in a case where the
Player suffers incapacity within the terms of the Football League and/or FA Premier League
Personal Accident Insurance Scheme; or
(b) in any other case, the date on which the incapacity is established by independent medical
examination.
268
PREMIER LEAGUE
Form 25
THE FOOTBALL LEAGUE CONTRACT
Where the player is declared permanently totally disabled under the terms of The Football
League and/or FA Premier League Personal Accident Insurance Scheme he will be entitled
to receive a lump sum disability benefit in accordance with the terms of the relevant policy.
(a) The Player shall not reside at any place which the Club deems unsuitable for the performance
of his duties under this Agreement.
(b) The Player shall not without the previous consent of the Club be engaged either directly or
indirectly in any trade, business or occupation other than his employment hereunder.
12. The Player shall permit the Club to photograph him as a member of the squad of players and staff
of the Club provided that such photographs are for use only as the official photographs of the Club.
The Player may, save as otherwise mutually agreed and subject to the overriding obligation
contained in the Rules of The Football Association not to bring the game of Association Football
into disrepute, contribute to the public media in a responsible manner. The Player shall, whenever
circumstances permit, give to the Club reasonable notice of his intention to make such contributions
to the public media in order to allow representations to be made to him on behalf of the Club if it
so desires.
(a) The Player shall not induce to attempt to induce any other Player employed by or registered
by the Club, or by any other Club, to leave that employment or cease to be so registered for
any reason whatsoever.
(b) The Club and the Player shall arrange all contracts of service and transfers of registration to
any other Football Club between themselves and shall make no payment to any other person
or agent in this respect.
13. No payment shall be made or received by either the Player or the Club to or from any person or
organisation whatsoever as an inducement to win, lose or draw a match except for such payments
to be made by the Club to the Player as are specifically provided for in the Schedule to this
Agreement.
14. If the Player shall be guilty of serious or persistent misconduct or serious or persistent breach of the
Rules of the Club or of the terms and conditions of this Agreement the Club may on giving fourteen
days written notice to the Player terminate this Agreement in accordance with the Rules of The
Football Association and either the Rules of The FA Premier League or the Regulations of The
Football League* as appropriate and the Club shall notify the Player in writing of the full reasons
for the action taken. Such action shall be subject to the Players right of appeal (exercisable within
seven days of the receipt by the Player of such notice and notification of reasons from the Club)
as follows:
(a) he may appeal to the Board of either The FA Premier League or The Football League,
dependent on the League in which the Club is in membership, who shall hear the appeal
within fourteen days of receipt of the notice of appeal.
(b) either the Club or the Player may appeal against the decision of the Board to The Football
League* Appeals Committee and such further appeal shall be made within seven days of the
receipt of the Boards decision and shall be heard within fourteen days of receipt of the notice
of the further appeal.
269
PREMIER LEAGUE FORMS
11. The Player shall be given every opportunity compatible with his obligations under this Agreement
to follow courses of further education or vocational training if he so desires. The Club agrees to
give the Footballers Further Education and Vocational Training Society particulars of any such
courses undertaken by the Player.
PREMIER LEAGUE
Form 25
THE FOOTBALL LEAGUE CONTRACT
PREMIER LEAGUE FORMS
Any such termination shall be subject to the rights of the parties provided for in the Rules of the FA
Premier League or the Regulations of The Football League* as appropriate. The Club may at its
discretion waive its rights under this Clause and take action under the provisions of Clause 18.
15. If the Club is guilty of serious or persistent breach of the terms and conditions of this Agreement
the Player may on giving fourteen days written notice to the Club terminate this Agreement. The
Player shall forward a copy of such notice to The Football Association and either The FA Premier
League or The Football League* dependent on the League in which the Club is in membership. The
Club shall have a right of appeal as set out in Clause 16(a) mutatis mutandis (exercisable within
seven days of the receipts by the Club of such notice from the Player) and the Club or the Player as
the case may be shall have a further right of appeal as set out in Clause 16(b).
16. If the Player is guilty of misconduct or a breach of an of the training or disciplinary rules or lawful
instructions of the Club or any of the provisions of this Agreement the Club may either impose a
fine not exceeding two weeks basic wages or order the Player not to attend at the Club for a period
not exceeding fourteen days. The Club shall inform the Player in writing of the action taken and
the full reasons for it and this information shall be recorded in a register held at the Club. The
Player shall have a right of appeal as set out in Clause 16(a) (exercisable within seven days of the
receipt by the Player of such written notification from the Club) and the Club or the Player as the
case may be shall have a further right of appeal as set out in Clause 16(b) of this Agreement. Any
penalty imposed by the Club upon the Player shall not become operative until the appeals
procedures have been exhausted.
17. In the event of any grievance in connection with his employment under this Agreement the
following procedures shall be available to the Player in the order set out:
(a) the grievance shall be brought informally to the notice of the Manager of the Club in the first
instance;
(b) formal notice of the grievance may be given in writing to the Manager of the Club;
(c) if the grievance is not settled to the Players satisfaction within fourteen days thereafter
formal notice of the grievance may be given in writing to the Secretary of the Club so that this
may be considered by the Board of Directors or Committee of the Club or by any duly
authorised committee or sub-committee thereof. The matter shall thereupon be dealt with
by the Board or Committee at its next convenient meeting and in any event within four
weeks of receipt of the notice;
(d) if the grievance is not settled by the Club to the Players satisfaction the Player shall have a
right of appeal as set out in Clause 16(a) (exercisable within seven days of the Club notifying
the Player of the decision of the Board or Committee) and the Club or the Player as the case
may be shall have a further right of appeal as set out in Clause 16(b) of this Agreement.
18. The Player may if he so desires be represented at any personal hearing of an appeal under this
Agreement by an official or member of the Professional Footballers Association.
19. Upon the execution of this Agreement the Club shall effect the Registration of the Player with The
Football Association and The FA Premier League or The Football League* as appropriate in
accordance with their Rules and Regulations. Such Registration may be transferred by mutual
consent of the Club and the Player during the currency of this Agreement and this Agreement will
be deemed to be terminated (but not so as to affect accrued rights) on the Registration by
The Football Association and by The FA Premier League or The Football League* as appropriate of
such transfer.
270
PREMIER LEAGUE
Form 25
THE FOOTBALL LEAGUE CONTRACT
20. The Rules and Regulations of The FA Premier League and The Football League* as to the
reengagement and transfer of a registration shall apply to the Club and Player both during the
currency and after the expiration of this Agreement.
21. The remuneration of the Player shall be set out in a Schedule attached to this Agreement and
signed by the parties. The Schedule shall include all remuneration to which the Player is or may be
entitled. In the event of any dispute the remuneration set out in the Schedule shall be conclusively
deemed to be the full entitlement of the Player.
23. Reference herein to Rules, Regulations or By-laws of The Football Association; The FA Premier
League, The Football League*, the Club and any other body shall be treated as a reference to those
Rules, Regulations and By-laws as from time to time amended.
24. If by the expiry of this Contract the Club has not made the Player an offer of re-engagement or the
Player has been granted a Free Transfer under the provisions of The FA Premier League Rules or The
Football League* Regulations then he shall continue to receive from his Club as severance payment
his weekly basic wage for a period of one month from the expiry date of this Contract or until he
signs for another Club whichever period is the shorter provided that where the Player signs for a
Club within the month at a reduced basic wage then his old Club shall make up the shortfall in basic
wage for the remainder of the month.
25. The terms and conditions of this Contract shall continue to apply in the event of the Club losing
Football League status to join The Football Conference except that the references to Football
League in Clauses 4, 5, 6, 16, 17, 21, 25 and 26 shall be deemed to read The Football Conference
and in Clause 22 the words The Regulations of The Football League shall be altered to read The
Rules of the Football Association.
26. All previous agreements between the Club and Player are hereby cancelled.
271
PREMIER LEAGUE FORMS
22. The Player shall be entitled to a minimum of four weeks paid holiday per year, such holiday to be
taken at a time which the Club shall determine. The Player shall not participate in professional
football during his holiday.
PREMIER LEAGUE
Form 25
THE FOOTBALL LEAGUE CONTRACT
SCHEDULE
(a)
The Players employment with the Club began on the
day of
20
PREMIER LEAGUE FORMS
(b) No employment with a previous employer shall count as part of the Players continuous period of
employment hereunder.
(c)
The Player shall become or continue to be and during the continuance of his employment hereunder shall
remain a member of the Football League Players Benefit Scheme (and a member of the Pension Scheme)
and as such (in the latter case shall be liable to make such contribution and in each case) shall be entitled
to such benefits and subject to such conditions as are set out in the definitive Trust Deed or Rules of
the Scheme.
(d)
A contracting out certificate is not in force in respect of the Players employment under this Agreement.
(e)
Basic Wage.
(f)
Any other provisions:
per week from
per week from
per week from
per week from
per week from
to
to
to
to
to
Signed by the said
and
(Player)
in the presence
of (Signature)
(Club Signatory)
(Occupation)
(Address
(Position)
272
PREMIER LEAGUE
PREMIER LEAGUE CONTRACT
Form 26
FA Copy
League Copy
Club Copy
Player Copy
No.
Players surname
Players forename(s)
Present Postal Address
PREMIER LEAGUE FORMS
Date of Birth
Place of Birth*
Nationality
National Insurance Number
Club for which Player was last registered
Club for which Player last played
(excluding domestic trial)
*The Players birth certificate must be provided to the League in the case of his first registration.
AN AGREEMENT made the (day) day of (month and year)
Between
Football Club/Company Limited/Plc whose registered office
is at (address)
(hereinafter referred to as the Club) of the one part and the above-named Player (hereinafter referred to as
the Player) of the other part.
WHEREBY it is agreed as follows:
1.
Definitions and Interpretation
1.1 The words and phrases below shall have the following meaning.
Agent means any Person who qualifies as an Intermediary for the purposes of the FA
Regulations on Working with Intermediaries as they may be amended from time to time.
Associated Company shall mean any company which is a holding company or subsidiary
(each as defined in Section 736 of the Companies Act 1985) of the Club or of any holding
company of the Club.
the Board shall mean the board of directors of the Club for the time being or any duly
authorised committee of such board of directors.
Club Context shall mean in relation to any representation of the Player and/or the Players
Image a representation in connection or combination with the name colours Strip trade marks
logos or other identifying characteristics of the Club (including trade marks and logos relating to
the Club and its activities which trade marks and logos are registered in the name of and/or
exploited by any Associated Company) or in any manner referring to or taking advantage of any of
the same.
273
PREMIER LEAGUE
Form 26
PREMIER LEAGUE CONTRACT
Club Rules shall mean the rules or regulations affecting the Player from time to time in force
and published by the Club.
Code of Practice shall mean the Code of Practice from time to time in force and produced
jointly by the Football Association Premier League Limited and the PFA in conjunction with the FA.
the FA Rules shall mean the rules and regulations from time to time in force of the FA and
including those of FIFA and UEFA to the extent they relate or apply to the Player or the Club.
PREMIER LEAGUE FORMS
the FA shall mean the Football Association Limited.
FIFA shall mean the Fdration Internationale de Football Association.
Gross Misconduct shall mean serious or persistent conduct behaviour activity or omission by
the Player involving one or more of the following:
(a)
(b)
(c)
(d)
(e)
theft or fraud;
deliberate and serious damage to the Clubs property;
use or possession of or trafficking in a Prohibited Substance;
incapacity through alcohol affecting the Players performance as a player;
breach of or failure to comply with of any of the terms of this contract
or such other similar or equivalent serious or persistent conduct behaviour activity or omission by
the Player which the Board reasonably considers to amount to gross misconduct.
Holiday Year sshall mean the global network of computer systems using TCP/IP protocols
including (without limitation) the World Wide Web.
Internet shall mean the global network of computer systems using TCP/IP protocols including
(without limitation) the World Wide Web.
the Laws of the Game shall mean the laws from time to time in force governing the game of
association football as laid down by the International Football Association Board (as defined in the
statutes of FIFA).
the Leagueshall mean the football league of which the Club is a member from time to time.
the League Rules shall mean the rules or regulations from time to time in force of the League.
Manager shall mean the official of the Club responsible for selecting the Clubs first team.
Media shall mean any and all media whether now existing or hereafter invented including but
not limited to any print and/or paper medium broadcast satellite or cable transmission and any
visual and/or audio medium and including but not limited to the Internet any television or radio
channel Website webcast and/or any transmission made by any mobile or mobile telephony
standard or technology or other media or broadcasting service.
PFA shall mean the Professional Footballers Association.
Permanent Incapacity shall mean either (a) Permanent Total Disablement as defined in the
Leagues personal accident insurance scheme or (b) incapacity of the Player by reason of or
resulting from any injury or illness (including mental illness or disorder) where in the written
opinion of an appropriately qualified medical consultant instructed by the Club (the Initial
Opinion) and (if requested in writing either by the Club at any time or by the Player at any time
274
PREMIER LEAGUE
Form 26
PREMIER LEAGUE CONTRACT
Players Image shall mean the Players name nickname fame image signature voice and film and
photographic portrayal virtual and/or electronic representation reputation replica and all other
characteristics of the Player including his shirt number.
Player Injury shall mean any injury or illness (including mental illness or disorder) other than
any injury or illness which is directly caused by or results directly from a breach by the Player of his
obligations under clause 3.2.1 of this contract or of any other of his obligations hereunder
amounting to Gross Misconduct.
Prohibited Substance shall have the meaning set out in the FA Rules.
the Rules shall mean the statutes and regulations of FIFA and UEFA the FA Rules the League
Rules the Code of Practice and the Club Rules.
Strip shall mean all versions from time to time of the Clubs official football clothing including
shirts shorts socks and/or training kit track suits headwear and/or any other clothing displaying the
Clubs name and/or official logo.
UEFA shall mean the Union des Associations Europennes de Football.
Website shall mean a site forming part of the Internet with a unique URL/domain name.
1.2 For the purposes of this contract and provided the context so permits:
1.2.1 the singular shall include the plural and vice versa and any gender includes any other
gender;
1.2.2
references to person shall include any entity business firm or unincorporated
association; and
1.2.3 references to statutory enactments or to the Rules shall include re-enactments and
amendments of substantially the same intent as the original referenced enactment or Rule.
1.3 The headings of this contract are for convenience only and not interpretation.
1.4 In the event of any dispute as to the interpretation of any of the provisions of this contract
reference shall be made (where appropriate) for clarification to the Code of Practice but so
that in the event of any conflict the provisions of this contract shall prevail. Subject thereto
wherever specific reference to the Code of Practice is made in this contract the relevant
terms and provisions thereof are deemed incorporated herein as if set out in full.
275
PREMIER LEAGUE FORMS
but not later than twenty one days after receipt from the Club of notice in writing terminating this
contract pursuant to clause 8.1) of a further such consultant approved or proposed by the Player
(and in the absence of either an approval or proposal within 28 days of the request nominated on
the application of either party by the President (the President) for the time being of the Royal
College of Surgeons) (the Further Opinion) the Player will be unlikely by reason of such
incapacity to play football to the same standard at which the Player would have played if not for
such incapacity for a consecutive period of not less than twenty months commencing on the date
of commencement of the incapacity PROVIDED that if the Initial Opinion and the Further Opinion
disagree with one another then if the Further Opinion was given by a consultant nominated by the
President it shall prevail but if not then a third opinion (the Third Opinion) from a consultant
nominated by the President may be obtained on the application of either party and that opinion
shall be final and binding for the purposes of this definition.
PREMIER LEAGUE
Form 26
PREMIER LEAGUE CONTRACT
2.
Appointment and duration
2.1 The Club engages the Player as a professional footballer on the terms and conditions of this
contract and subject to the Rules.
2.2 This contract shall remain in force until the date specified in clause 2 of Schedule 2 hereto
subject to any earlier determination pursuant to the terms of this contract.
3.
Duties and Obligations of the Player
PREMIER LEAGUE FORMS
3.1 The Player agrees:
3.1.1 when directed by an authorised official of the Club:
3.1.1.1 to attend matches in which the Club is engaged;
3.1.1.2 to participate in any matches in which he is selected to play for the Club; and
3.1.1.3 to attend at any reasonable place for the purposes of and to participate in training
and match preparation;
276
3.1.2 to play to the best of his skill and ability at all times;
3.1.3 except to the extent prevented by injury or illness to maintain a high standard of
physical fitness at all times and not to indulge in any activity sport or practice which
might endanger such fitness or inhibit his mental or physical ability to play practise or
train;
3.1.4 to undertake such other duties and to participate in such other activities as are
consistent with the performance of his duties under clauses 3.1.1 to 3.1.3 and as are
reasonably required of the Player;
3.1.5 that he has given all necessary authorities for the release to the Club of his medical
records and will continue to make the same available as requested by the Club from
time to time during the continuance of this contract;
3.1.6 to comply with and act in accordance with all lawful instructions of any authorised
official of the Club;
3.1.7 to play football solely for the Club or as authorised by the Club or as required by the
Rules;
3.1.8 to observe the Laws of the Game when playing football;
3.1.9 to observe the Rules but in the case of the Club Rules to the extent only that they do
not conflict with or seek to vary the express terms of this contract;
3.1.10 to submit promptly to such medical and dental examinations as the Club may
reasonably require and to undergo at no expense to himself such treatment as may be
prescribed by the medical or dental advisers of the Club or the Clubs insurers;
3.1.11 on the termination of this contract for any cause to return to the Club in a reasonable
and proper condition any property (including any car) which has been provided or
made available by the Club to the Player in connection with his employment.
PREMIER LEAGUE
Form 26
PREMIER LEAGUE CONTRACT
3.2 The Player agrees that he shall not:
3.2.1 undertake or be involved in any activity or practice which will knowingly cause to be
void or voidable or which will invoke any exclusion of the Players cover pursuant to
any policy of insurance maintained for the benefit of the Club on the life of the Player
or covering his physical well-being (including injury and incapacity and treatment
thereof);
3.2.2 when playing or training wear anything (including jewellery) which is or could be
dangerous to him or any other person;
3.2.3 except to the extent specifically agreed in writing between the Club and the Player
prior to the signing of this contract use as his regular place of residence any place
which the Club reasonably deems unsuitable for the performance by the Player of his
duties other than temporarily pending relocation;
3.2.4 undertake or be engaged in any other employment or be engaged or involved in any
trade business or occupation or participate professionally in any other sporting or
athletic activity without the prior written consent of the Club PROVIDED THAT this
shall not:
3.2.4.1 p
revent the Player from making any investment in any business so long as it
does not conflict or interfere with his obligations hereunder; or
3.2.4.2 limit the Players rights under clauses 4 and 6.1.8;
3.2.5 knowingly or recklessly do write or say anything or omit to do anything which is likely
to bring the Club or the game of football into disrepute cause the Player or the Club to
be in breach of the Rules or cause damage to the Club or its officers or employees or
any match official. Whenever circumstances permit the Player shall give to the Club
reasonable notice of his intention to make any contributions to the public media in
order to allow representations to be made to him on behalf of the Club if it so desires;
3.2.6 except in the case of emergency arrange or undergo any medical treatment without
first giving the Club proper details of the proposed treatment and physician/surgeon
and requesting the Clubs consent which the Club will not unreasonably withhold
having due regard to the provisions of the Code of Practice.
Community public relations and marketing
4.1 For the purposes of the promotional community and public relations activities of the Club
and/or (at the request of the Club) of any sponsors or commercial partners of the Club and/
or of the League and/or of any main sponsors of the League the Player shall attend at and
participate in such events as may reasonably be required by the Club including but not limited
to appearances and the granting of interviews and photographic opportunities as authorised
by the Club. The Club shall give reasonable notice to the Player of the Clubs requirements
and the Player shall make himself available for up to six hours per week of which approximately
half shall be devoted to the community and public relations activities of the Club. No
photograph of the Player taken pursuant to the provisions of this clause 4.1 shall be used by
the Club or any other person to imply any brand or product endorsement by the Player.
277
PREMIER LEAGUE FORMS
4.
PREMIER LEAGUE
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4.2 Whilst he is providing or performing the services set out in this contract (including travelling
on Club business) the Player shall:
4.2.1 wear only such clothing as is approved by an authorised official of the Club; and
4.2.2 not display any badge mark logo trading name or message on any item of clothing
without the written consent of an authorised official of the Club provided that nothing
in this clause shall prevent the Player wearing and/or promoting football boots and in
the case of a goalkeeper gloves of his choice.
4.3 Subject in any event to clause 4.4 and except to the extent of any commitments already
entered into by the Player as at the date hereof or when on international duty in relation to
the Players national football association UEFA or FIFA he shall not (without the written
consent of the Club) at any time during the term of this contract do anything to promote
endorse or provide promotional marketing or advertising services or exploit the Players
Image either (a) in relation to any person in respect of such persons products brand or
services which conflict or compete with any of the Clubs club branded or football related
products (including the Strip) or any products brand or services of the Clubs two main
sponsors/commercial partners or of the Leagues one principal sponsor or (b) for the League
4.4 The Player agrees that he will not either on his own behalf or with or through any third party
undertake promotional activities in a Club Context nor exploit the Players Image in a Club
Context in any manner and/or in any Media nor grant the right to do so to any third party.
4.5 Except to the extent specifically herein provided or otherwise specifically agreed with the
Player nothing in this contract shall prevent the Player from undertaking promotional
activities or from exploiting the Players Image so long as:
4.5.1 the said promotional activities or exploitation do not interfere or conflict with the
Players obligations under this contract; and
4.5.2 the Player gives reasonable advance notice to the Club of any intended promotional
activities or exploitation.
4.6 The Player hereby grants to the Club the right to photograph the Player both individually and
as a member of a squad and to use such photographs and the Players Image in a Club Context
in connection with the promotion of the Club and its playing activities and the promotion of
the League and the manufacture sale distribution licensing advertising marketing and
promotion of the Clubs club branded and football related products (including the Strip) or
services (including such products or services which are endorsed by or produced under
licence from the Club) and in relation to the Leagues licensed products services and sponsors
in such manner as the Club may reasonably think fit so long as:
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4.6.1 the use of the Players photograph and/or Players Image either alone or with not more
than two other players at the Club shall be limited to no greater usage than the
average for all players regularly in the Clubs first team;
4.6.2 the Players photograph and/or Players Image shall not be used to imply any brand or
product endorsement by the Player; and
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4.6.3 PROVIDED that all rights shall cease on termination of this contract save for the use
and/or sale of any promotional materials or products as aforesaid as shall then already
be manufactured or in the process of manufacture or required to satisfy any
outstanding orders.
4.8 The Player shall be entitled to make a responsible and reasonable reply or response to any
media comment or published statements likely to adversely affect the Players standing or
reputation and subject as provided for in clause 3.2.5 to make contributions to the public
media in a responsible manner.
4.9 In this clause 4 where the context so admits the expression the Club includes any Associated
Company of the Club but only to the extent and in the context that such company directly or
indirectly provides facilities to or undertakes commercial marketing or public relations
activities for the Club and not so as to require the consent of any Associated Company when
consent of the Club is required.
4.10 For the purposes of the Contracts (Rights of Third Parties) Act 1999 nothing in this clause 4
is intended to nor does it give to the League any right to enforce any of its provisions against
the Club or the Player.
4.11 Nothing in this clause 4 shall prevent the Club from entering into other arrangements additional
or supplemental hereto or in variance hereof in relation to advertising marketing and/or
promotional services with the Player or with or for all or some of the Clubs players (including
the Player) from time to time. Any other such arrangements which have been agreed as at the
date of the signing of this contract and any image contract or similar contract required to be set
out in this contract by the League Rules are set out in Schedule 2 paragraph 13.
5.
Remuneration and expenses
5.1 Throughout his engagement the Club shall pay to the Player the remuneration and shall
provide the benefits (if any) as are set out in Schedule 2.
5.2 The Club shall reimburse the Player all reasonable hotel and other expenses wholly and
exclusively incurred by him in or about the performance of his duties under this contract
PROVIDED that the Player has obtained the prior authorisation of a director the Manager or
the secretary of the Club and the Player furnishes the Club with receipts or other evidence of
such expenses.
5.3 The Club may deduct from any remuneration payable to the Player:
5.3.1 any monies disbursed and/or liabilities incurred by the Club on behalf of the Player
with the Players prior consent;
5.3.2 any other monies (but not claims for damages or compensation) which can be clearly
established to be properly due from the Player to the Club.
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4.7 In its dealings with any person permitted by the Club to take photographs of the Player the
Club shall use reasonable endeavours to ensure that the copyright of the photographs so
taken is vested in the Club and/or that no use is made of the said photographs without the
Clubs consent and in accordance with the provisions of this contract.
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5.4 If at a Disciplinary hearing conducted under Part 1 of Schedule 1 hereto a fine is imposed on
a player calculated by reference to the Players weekly wage, the fine shall take the form of a
forfeiture of wages of a corresponding amount so that the amount forfeit shall not become
payable to the Player. The forfeiture shall take effect in relation to the monthly instalment of
the Players remuneration falling due next after the date on which the notice of the decision
is given to him (Pay Day). But see clause 5.5 dealing with appeals. For the avoidance of
doubt, the amount forfeit is the gross amount of the weekly wage.
5.5 If on Pay Day the time for appealing has not expired or if notice of appeal has been given, the
reference to Pay Day shall be to the day on which the monthly instalment of remuneration
becomes payable next after (i) the expiry of the time for appealing without any appeal having
been made or (ii) if an appeal is made, the date on which the outcome of the appeal is notified
to the Player. In the case of an appeal, the amount that is forfeit shall be the amount (if any)
determined on appeal.
6.
Obligations of the Club
6.1 The Club shall:
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6.1.1 observe the Rules all of which (other than the Club Rules) shall take precedence over
the Club Rules;
6.1.2 provide the Player each year with copies of all the Rules which affect the Player and of
the terms and conditions of any policy of insurance in respect of or in relation to the
Player with which the Player is expected to comply;
6.1.3 promptly arrange appropriate medical and dental examinations and treatment for the
Player at the Clubs expense in respect of any injury to or illness (including mental
illness or disorder) of the Player save where such injury or illness is caused by an
activity or practice on the part of the Player which breaches clause 3.2.1 hereof in
which case the Club shall only be obliged to arrange and pay for treatment to the
extent that the cost thereof remains covered by the Clubs policy of medical insurance
or (if the Club does not maintain such a policy) then to the extent that it would remain
covered by such a policy were one maintained upon normal industry terms commonly
available within professional football and so that save as aforesaid this obligation shall
continue in respect of any examinations and/or treatment the necessity for which
arose during the currency of this contract notwithstanding its subsequent expiry or
termination until the earlier of completion of the necessary examinations and/or
prescribed treatment and a period of eighteen months from the date of expiry or
termination hereof;
6.1.4 The Club shall use all reasonable endeavours to ensure that any policy of insurance
maintained by the Club for the benefit of the Player continues to provide cover for any
examinations and/or treatment as are referred to in clause 6.1.3 until completion of
any such examinations and/or treatment;
6.1.5 comply with all relevant statutory provisions relating to industrial injury and any
regulations made pursuant thereto;
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6.1.6 at all times maintain and observe a proper health and safety policy for the security
safety and physical well being of the Player when carrying out his duties under this
contract;
6.1.7 in any case where the Club would otherwise be liable as employer for any acts or
omissions of the Player in the lawful and proper performance of his playing practising
or training duties under this contract defend the Player against any proceedings
threatened or brought against him at any time arising out of the carrying out by him of
any such acts or omissions and indemnify him from any damages awarded and this
obligation and indemnity shall continue in relation to any such acts or omissions
during the currency of this contract notwithstanding its expiry or termination before
such proceedings are threatened and/or brought;
6.1.8 give the Player every opportunity compatible with his obligations under this contract
to follow any course of further education or vocational training which he wishes to
undertake and give positive support to the Player in undertaking such education and
training. The Player shall supply the Footballers Further Education and Vocational
Training Society with particulars of any courses undertaken by him; and
6.1.9 release the Player as required for the purposes of fulfilling the obligations in respect of
representative matches to his national association pursuant to the statutes and
regulations of FIFA.
6.2 The Club shall not without the consent in writing of the Player:
7.
6.2.1 take or use or permit to be used photographs of the Player for any purposes save as
permitted by clause 4; or
6.2.2 use or reveal the contents of any medical reports or other medical information
regarding the Player obtained by the Club save for the purpose of assessing the Players
health and fitness obtaining medical and insurance cover and complying with the
Clubs obligations under the Rules.
Injury and Illness
7.1 Any injury to or illness of the Player shall be reported by him or on his behalf to the Club
immediately and the Club shall keep a record of such injury or illness.
7.2 In the event that the Player shall become incapacitated from playing by reason of any injury
or illness (including mental illness or disorder) the Club shall pay to the Player during such
period of incapacity or the period of this contract (whichever is the shorter) the following
amounts of remuneration for the following periods:
7.2.1 in the case of a Player Injury his basic wage over the first eighteen months and one half
of his basic wage for the remainder of his period of incapacity;
7.2.2 in the case of any other injury or illness his basic wage over the first twelve months and
one half of his basic wage for the remainder of his period of incapacity.
7.3 In each case specified in clause 7.2 above there shall be paid to the Player in addition to his
basic wage all or the appropriate share of any bonus payments if and to the extent that
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payment or provision for continuation of the same is specifically provided for in Schedule 2
or in the Clubs Bonus Scheme.
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7.4 The payments made by the Club pursuant to clause 7.2 shall be deemed to include all and any
statutory sick pay and/or any other state benefits payable by reference to sickness to which
the Player may be entitled.
7.5 Nothing in this clause 7 shall reduce or vary the entitlement of the Player to signing on fees
and/or loyalty payments or any other payments of a similar nature due to him under this
contract.
8.
Permanent or Prolonged Incapacity
8.1 In the event that:
8.1.1 the Player shall suffer Permanent Incapacity; or
8.1.2 the Player has been incapacitated from playing by reason of or resulting from the same
injury or illness (including mental illness or disorder) for a period (consecutive or in the
aggregate) amounting to eighteen months in any consecutive period of twenty
months;
the Club shall be entitled to serve a notice upon the Player terminating this contract.
8.2 The length of such notice shall be twelve months in the case of an incapacity by reason of a
Player Injury and six months in every other case.
8.3 The notice referred to in clause 8.1 may be served at any time after:
8.3.1 the date on which the Player is declared to be suffering Permanent Total Disablement
under the terms of the Leagues personal accident insurance scheme; or
8.3.2 the date on which such Permanent Incapacity is established by the Initial Opinion; or
8.3.3 in the case of any incapacity as is referred to in 8.1.2 the date on which the period of
incapacity shall exceed eighteen months as aforesaid but so that the right to terminate
pursuant to clause 8.1.2 shall only apply while such incapacity shall continue thereafter.
8.4 In the event that after the service of any notice pursuant to clause 8.1.1 Permanent Incapacity
is not confirmed by the Further Opinion (if requested) or (where relevant) by the Third
Opinion then such notice shall lapse and cease to be of effect.
8.5 In the case of any notice of termination given under this clause 8 the Club shall be entitled by
further notice on or after serving notice of termination to terminate this contract forthwith
on paying to the Player at the time of such termination the remainder of his remuneration
and any other sums properly due to him under this contract and the value of any other
benefits which would be payable or available to the Player during the remainder of the period
of his notice of termination provided always that the Clubs obligations pursuant to clause
6.1.3 shall continue to apply during the remainder of the said notice period and for any
further relevant period as provided therein.
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9.
Disciplinary Procedure
Except in any case where the Club terminates the Players employment pursuant to the provisions
of clause 10 hereof (when the procedure set out therein shall apply) the Club shall operate the
disciplinary procedure set out in Part 1 of Schedule 1 hereto in relation to any breach or failure to
observe the terms of this contract or of the Rules.
10. Termination by the Club
10.1 The Club shall be entitled to terminate the employment of the Player by fourteen days
notice in writing to the Player if the Player:
10.1.1 shall be guilty of Gross Misconduct;
10.1.2 shall fail to heed any final written warning given under the provisions of Part 1 of
Schedule 1 hereto; or
10.1.3 is convicted of any criminal offence where the punishment consists of a sentence of
imprisonment of three months or more (which is not suspended).
10.2 If the Club terminates the Players employment for any reason under clause 10.1 the Club
shall within seven days thereafter notify the Player in writing of the full reasons for the action
taken.
10.3 The Player may by notice in writing served on the Club and the League at any time from the
date of termination up to fourteen days after receipt by the Player of written notification
under clause 10.2 give notice of appeal against the decision of the Club to the League and
such appeal shall be determined in accordance with the procedures applicable pursuant to
the League Rules.
10.4 If the Player exercises his right of appeal the termination of this contract by the Club shall not
become effective unless and until it shall have been determined that the Club was entitled to
terminate this contract pursuant to clause 10.1 but so that if it is so determined then subject
only to clause 10.5.3 the Player shall cease to be entitled to any remuneration or benefits
with effect from the expiration of the period of notice referred to in clause 10.3 and any
payment made by the Club in respect thereof shall forthwith become due from the Player to
the Club.
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8.6 Where the Club has made payment to the Player during any period of incapacity owing to
illness or injury and the Players absence is due to the action of a third party other than of
another club player or match official in relation to any damage or injury sustained on or
about the field of play or during training or practising giving the Player a right of recovery
against that third party then if the Player makes any claim against such third party the Player
must where he is reasonably able to do so include as part of such claim from such third party
a claim for recovery of any such payment and upon successful recovery repay to the Club the
lesser of the total of the remuneration paid by the Club to the Player during the period of
incapacity and the amount of any damages payable to or recovered by the Player in respect
of such claim or otherwise by reference to loss of earnings under this contract under any
compromise settlement or judgment. Any amounts paid by the Club to the Player in such
circumstances shall constitute loans from the Club to be repaid to the Club to the extent
aforesaid upon successful recovery as aforesaid.
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10.5 Pending the hearing and determination of such appeal the Club may suspend the Player for
up to a maximum of six weeks from the date of notice of termination and if the Board so
determine such suspension shall be without pay provided that:
10.5.1 the payment due to the Player in respect of the fourteen days notice period under
clause 10.1 is made to the Player forthwith;
10.5.2 pending the determination of the appeal an amount equal to the remuneration
which would otherwise have been due to the Player but for the suspension without
pay is paid to an escrow account held by the PFA as and when it would otherwise
have become due for payment to the Player and following the determination of
the appeal the PFA will either pay the money (including interest earned on the said
account) to the Player or return it to the Club according to the appeal decision;
10.5.3 all other benefits for the Player under the provisions of clauses 6.1.3 and 6.1.4 of this
contract shall be maintained and remain in force while the appeal is pending; and
10.5.4 during any such period of suspension the Club shall be under no obligation to
assign to the Player any playing training or other duties and shall be entitled to
exclude the Player from the Clubs premises including its ground and training
ground.
10.6 Upon any termination of this contract by the Club becoming operative the Club shall
forthwith release the Players registration.
11. Termination by the Player
11.1 The Player shall be entitled to terminate this contract by fourteen days notice in writing to
the Club if the Club:
11.1.1 shall be guilty of serious or persistent breach of the terms and conditions of this
contract; or
11.1.2 fails to pay any remuneration or other payments or bonuses due to the Player or
make available any benefits due to him as it or they fall due or within fourteen
days thereafter and has still failed to make payment in full or make the benefits
available by the expiry of the said fourteen days notice.
11.2 The Club may within fourteen days of receipt of any notice of termination of this contract by
the Player in accordance with clause 11.1 give written notice of appeal against such
termination to the Player and to the League which shall hear such appeal in accordance with
procedures applicable pursuant to the League Rules.
11.3 If the Club exercises its right of appeal pursuant to clause 11.2 the termination of this contract
shall not become operative unless and until it shall have been determined that the Player was
entitled to terminate this contract pursuant to clause 11.1.
11.4 Upon any termination of this contract by the Player becoming operative the Club shall
forthwith release the Players registration.
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12. Grievance Procedure
In the event that the Player has any grievance in connection with his employment under this
contract the grievance procedures set out in Part 2 of the Schedule 1 hereto shall be available to
the Player.
13. Representation of Player
14. Holidays
For each Holiday Year the Player shall be entitled to take in the aggregate the equivalent of five
weeks paid holiday to be taken at a time or times and for such days during the Holiday Year as shall
be determined by the Club but so that (subject to the Clubs first team and any international
commitments) the Club shall not unreasonably refuse to permit the Player to take three of such
weeks consecutively. Holidays not taken during any Holiday Year (or subject to agreement by the
Club within one month of the end of such Holiday Year) may not be carried forward into any
subsequent Holiday Year.
15. Survival
The provisions of this contract shall remain in full force and effect in respect of any act or omission
of either party during the period of this contract notwithstanding the termination of this contract.
16. Confidentiality
This contract is to be treated as being private and confidential and its contents shall not be
disclosed or divulged either directly or indirectly to any person firm or company whatsoever either
by the Club the Player or any Agent of the Club or the Player except:
16.1 with the prior written agreement of both the Club and the Player; or
16.2 as may be required by any statutory regulatory governmental or quasi governmental
authorities or as otherwise required by law or pursuant to the Rules including (where
appropriate) any recognised stock exchange; or
16.3 in the case of the Player to his duly appointed Agent and professional advisers including the
PFA; or
16.4 in the case of the Club to its duly appointed Agent and its professional advisers or to such of
its directors secretary servants or representatives or auditors to whom such disclosure is
strictly necessary for the purposes of their duties and then only to the extent so necessary.
17. Arbitration
Any dispute between the Club and the Player not provided for in clauses 9, 10, 11,12 and Schedule
1 hereof shall be referred to arbitration in accordance with the League Rules or (but only if mutually
agreed by the Club and the Player) in accordance with the FA Rules.
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In any disciplinary or grievance procedure the Player shall be entitled to be accompanied by or
represented by his Club captain or a PFA delegate and/or any officer of the PFA.
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18. Specificity of Football
The parties hereto confirm and acknowledge that this contract the rights and obligations
undertaken by the parties hereto and the fixed term period thereof reflect the special relationship
and characteristics involved in the employment of football players and the participation by the
parties in the game of football pursuant to the Rules and the parties accordingly agree that all
matters of dispute in relation to the rights and obligations of the parties hereto and otherwise
pursuant to the Rules including as to termination of this contract and any compensation payable in
respect of termination or breach thereof shall be submitted to and the parties hereto accept the
jurisdiction and all appropriate determinations of such tribunal panel or other body (including
pursuant to any appeal therefrom) pursuant to the provisions of and in accordance with the
procedures and practices under this contract and the Rules.
19. Severance
19.1 If the Player shall not make an application to an Employment Tribunal for compensation in
respect of unfair dismissal or redundancy as a result of not being offered a new contract
either on terms at least as favourable as under this contract or at all then the following
provisions of this clause 19 shall take effect.
19.2 If by the expiry of this contract the Club has not made to the Player an offer of re-engagement
on terms at least as favourable to the Player as those applicable over the last twelve months
of this contract (or the length of this contract if shorter) then subject to clauses 19.1 and 19.3
the Player shall continue to receive from his Club (as a separate payment representing
compensation as more particularly referred to in the Code of Practice) a payment equal to his
weekly basic wage (at the average amount of his weekly wage over the preceding 12 months
of this contract or the whole of this contract if shorter) for a period of one month from the
expiry of this contract or until the Player signs for another club whichever period is the
shorter provided that where the Player signs for another club within that period of one month
at a lower basic wage than such average then such payment shall in addition include a sum
equal to the shortfall in such basic wage for the remainder of such period;
19.3 The maximum amount payable to the Player under sub-clause 19.2 is double the maximum
sum which an Employment Tribunal can award from time to time as a compensatory award
for unfair dismissal.
20. Miscellaneous
20.1 This contract and the documents referred to herein constitute the entire agreement between
the Club and the Player and supersede any and all preceding agreements between the Club
and the Player.
20.2 The further particulars of terms of employment not contained in the body of this contract
which must be given to the Player in compliance with Part 1 of the Employment Rights Act
1996 are given in Schedule 2.
20.3 This contract is signed by the parties hereto in duplicate so that for this purpose each signed
agreement shall constitute an original but taken together they shall constitute one
agreement.
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20.4 For the purposes of the Data Protection Act 1998 the Player consents to the Club the League
PFA and FA collecting Personal Data including Sensitive Personal Data (both as defined in the
said Act) about the Player. The Clubs Data Protection Policy can be found in the Clubs
employee handbook.
21. Jurisdiction and Law
This contract shall be governed by and construed in accordance with English law and the parties
submit to the non exclusive jurisdiction of the English Courts.
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SCHEDULE 1
Part 1
Disciplinary Procedure and Penalties
1. Introduction
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The disciplinary procedure aims to ensure that the Club behaves fairly in investigating and dealing with
allegations of unacceptable conduct with a view to helping and encouraging all employees of the Club to
achieve and maintain appropriate standards of conduct and performance. The Club nevertheless reserves
the right to depart from the precise requirements of its disciplinary procedure where the Club considers
it expedient to do so and where the Players resulting treatment is no less fair.
2. Records
All cases of disciplinary action under this procedure will be recorded and placed in the Clubs records until
deleted in accordance with paragraph 4.2. A copy of the Clubs disciplinary records concerning the Player
will be supplied to the Player at his request.
3.
The Procedure
The following steps will be taken as appropriate in all cases of disciplinary action:
3.1 Investigation
No action will be taken before a proper investigation has been undertaken by the Club into the matter
complained of. If the Club determines the same to be appropriate the Club may by written notice suspend
the Player for up to fourteen days while the investigation takes place. If the Player is so suspended this
contract will continue together with all the Players rights under it including the payment of the Players
remuneration and benefits but during the period of suspension the Player will not be entitled to access to
any of the Clubs premises except at the prior request or with the prior consent of the Club and subject to
such conditions as the Club may impose. The decision to suspend the Player will be notified in writing to
the Player by the Club.
3.2 Disciplinary Hearing
3.2.1 If the Club decides to hold a disciplinary hearing about the matter complained of the Player
will be given full details in writing of the complaint against him and reasonable notice of the
date and time of the hearing. At the hearing the Player will be given an opportunity to state
his case either personally or through his representative as provided for in clause 13 of this
contract.
3.2.2 Subject as provided in paragraph 3.2.3 no disciplinary penalty will be imposed without first
giving the Player the opportunity to state his case to the Manager or if the Player so requests
to a director of the Club and where the Club considers it appropriate or where the Player
requests the same without a disciplinary hearing.
3.2.3 A disciplinary hearing may proceed in the Players absence and a disciplinary penalty may be
imposed if he fails to appear at such hearing after having received proper notice thereof
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3.3.1 The Player shall have a right of appeal to the Board against any disciplinary decision. The
Player should inform the Board in writing of his wish to appeal within fourteen days of the
date of notification to him of the decision which forms the subject of such appeal. The
Board will conduct an appeal hearing as soon as possible thereafter at which the Player will
be given a further opportunity to state his case. The decision of the Board will be notified to
the Player in writing within seven days and subject to paragraph 3.3.2 will be final and
binding under this procedure.
3.3.2 In the event of any sanction being imposed or confirmed in excess of an oral warning the
Player may by notice in writing served on the Club and the League within fourteen days of
receipt by the Player of written notification of the decision of the Board give notice of appeal
against it to the League who will determine the matter in accordance with the League Rules.
3.3.3 If the Player exercises any right of appeal as aforesaid any sanction imposed by the Club
upon the Player shall not take effect until the appropriate appeal has been determined and
the sanction confirmed varied or revoked as the case may be.
4.
Disciplinary Penalties
4.1 At a disciplinary hearing or on an appeal against a disciplinary decision the Club may dismiss the
allegation or if it is proved to the Clubs satisfaction may:
4.1.1 give an oral warning a formal written warning or after a previous warning or warnings a final
written warning to the Player;
4.1.2 impose a fine not exceeding the amount of the Players basic wage for a period of up to two
weeks for a first offence (unless otherwise approved by the PFA in accordance with the Code
of Practice) and up to four weeks for subsequent offences in any consecutive period of
twelve months but only in accordance with the provisions of the Code of Practice;
4.1.3 order the Player not to attend at any of the Clubs premises for such period as the Club
thinks fit not exceeding four weeks;
4.1.4 in any circumstances which would entitle the Club to dismiss the Player pursuant to any of
the provisions of clause 10 of this contract dismiss the Player or impose such other
disciplinary action (including suspension of the Player and/or a fine of all or part of the
amount of the Players basic wage for a period not exceeding six weeks).
4.2 Any warning or sanction given under this disciplinary procedure will be deleted in the Clubs records
after twelve months.
Part 2
Grievance Procedures
1.
The Player shall bring any grievance informally to the notice of the Manager in the first instance. The
Player may be required by the Manager to put any such grievance in writing. Having enquired into such
grievance the Manager will then notify the Player of his decision.
2.
If the grievance is not determined by the Manager to the Players satisfaction the Player may within
fourteen days thereafter serve formal notice of the grievance in writing on the secretary of the Club and
the matter shall thereupon be determined by the chairman of the Club or by the Board as soon as possible
and in any event within four weeks of the receipt of the notice.
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SCHEDULE 2
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Supplemental Provisions and Employment Rights Act 1996
The following provisions shall apply to supplement the provisions of this contract and the
information as set out herein in order to comply with the requirements of Part 1 of the Employment
Rights Act 1996.
1.
The Players employment with the Club began on
2.
The date of termination of this contract is 30 June 20
3.
No employment with a previous employer shall count as part of the Players continuous period of
employment hereunder.
4.
The Players hours of work are such as the Club may from time to time reasonably require of him to
carry out his duties and the Player shall not be entitled to any additional remuneration for work
done outside normal working hours.
5.
The place of employment shall be at the Clubs ground and training ground but the Club shall be
entitled to require the Player to play and to undertake his duties hereunder at any other place
throughout the world.
6.
No contracting out certificate pursuant to the Pensions Scheme Act 1993 is in force in respect of
the Players employment under this contract.
7.
The Professional Footballers Pension Scheme
7.1 Immediately on signing this contract, the Player shall:
7.1.1 be automatically enrolled as; or
7.1.2 or continue to be;
a member of the 2011 Section of the Professional Footballers Pension Scheme (the Scheme) and
shall remain so during the continuance of his employment hereunder unless he:
7.1.3 notifies the Scheme Administrator in writing that he wishes to opt out of the Scheme;
7.1.4 has previously registered with HM Revenue & Customs for Fixed or Enhanced Protection; or
7.1.5 is otherwise ineligible for membership of the Scheme in accordance with the terms of the
Schemes definitive trust deed and rules as amended from time to time.
290
7.2 For as long as the Player remains a member of the 2011 Section, an annual contribution (funded by
the levy on transfer fees) will be paid into the Scheme for the benefit of the Player. The annual
contribution shall be 4750 or such other amount as determined by the Trustees of the Scheme
from time to time.
PREMIER LEAGUE
Form 26
PREMIER LEAGUE CONTRACT
7.3 The Player shall not be required to contribute to the 2011 Section but may elect to contribute such
amount as he notifies to the Scheme Administrator in writing. Where a Player decides to contribute
to the 2011 Section he can agree with his Club and the Scheme Administrator for the contribution
to be made through a salary sacrifice arrangement.
7.4 Where, by virtue of previous membership of the Scheme, the Player has built up benefits under its
Cash Section and/or Income Section, those benefits will be frozen and revalued until his retirement
from the Scheme. The Player shall be entitled to such benefits (including death benefits) from each
section of the Scheme in which he has participated on such conditions as are set out in the Schemes
definitive trust deed and rules as amended from time to time.
7.5 The Player further agrees that the Club may disclose his name, address, gender, date of birth,
National Insurance number, salary information and dates of commencement and termination of
employment to the League and the trustees of the Scheme for the purposes of facilitating the
administration of the Scheme.
291
PREMIER LEAGUE FORMS
PREMIER LEAGUE
Form 26
PREMIER LEAGUE CONTRACT
8. Remuneration
The Players remuneration shall be:
PREMIER LEAGUE FORMS
8.1 Basic Wage:
per week/per annum payable by monthly installments in arrear
from
to
per week/per annum payable by monthly installments in arrear
from
to
per week/per annum payable by monthly installments in arrear
from
to
per week/per annum payable by monthly installments in arrear
from
to
per week/per annum payable by monthly installments in arrear
from
to
per week/per annum payable by monthly installments in arrear
from
to
per week/per annum payable by monthly installments in arrear
from
to
8.2 Such of the bonuses and incentives as the Player shall be entitled to receive under the terms of
the Clubs bonus and incentive scheme as are set out below/a copy of which is annexed hereto.
8.3 Any other payments as follows:
9. Insurances (if any) maintained for the benefit of the Player subject to the terms and conditions thereof
during currency of this contract the premiums of which are paid by the Club.
Nature of Policy
292
Amount
PREMIER LEAGUE
Form 26
PREMIER LEAGUE CONTRACT
10. Benefits (if any) to be provided to the Player during the currency of this contract
12. The terms and conditions of this contract form part of a number of collective agreements between the
Club (through the League) and the Player (through the PFA) affecting the Players employment and full
details thereof are set out in the Code of Practice.
13. (If applicable) The following provisions which are additional or supplemental to those set out in clause 4
have been agreed between the Club and the Player as referred to in clause 4.11.
14. Any other provisions:
293
PREMIER LEAGUE FORMS
11. The Players normal retirement age is 35 years.
PREMIER LEAGUE
Form 26
PREMIER LEAGUE CONTRACT
SIGNED by the Player
in the presence of:
[Witness Signature]
PREMIER LEAGUE FORMS
[Address]
Occupation
SIGNED by the Players parent or guardian (if the player is under 18)
in the presence of:
[Witness Signature]
[Address]
Occupation
SIGNED by [name]
for and on behalf of the
Clubin the presence of:
[Witness Signature]
[Address]
Occupation
Did the Player use the sevices of an Agent
yes/no
If yes, name of Agent
Signature of Agent
Did the Club use the services of an Agent
If yes, name of Agent
Signature of Agent
294
yes/no
PREMIER LEAGUE
Form 27
PLAYER ETHNICITY MONITORING QUESTIONNAIRE (Rule T.23)
USE OF INFORMATION
Completion of this questionnaire is voluntary. If you provide the information it will be used as set out below and
will not be used for selection or any other purposes.
What is your ethnic group?
(Choose ONE section from A to E, then tick the appropriate box to indicate the ethnicity that you identify
with from the list below)
A White
British
English
Scottish
Welsh
Irish
Gypsy or Irish Traveller
Any other White Background,
please write in
Asian or Asian British
Indian
British-Indian
Pakistani
British-Pakistani
Bangladeshi
British-Bangladeshi
Chinese
British-Chinese
Any other Asian background,
please write in
Other Background
Arab
Other
Prefer not to say
B Mixed
White and Black Caribbean
White and Black African
White and Asian
Any other Mixed Background,
please write in
Black or Black British
Caribbean
British-Caribbean
African
British-African
Any other Black background,
please write in
F Undeclared
Prefer not to disclose
my ethnic origin
Name of Player
Signed
Date
(Parent / Guardian to sign if Player is a minor)
295
PREMIER LEAGUE FORMS
The information provided on this ethnicity questionnaire will be recorded on a computer system shared by the Football
Association Premier League Limited (Premier League) (and The Football League Limited should the Player ever compete
in the Football League) against the Players record and will be used:
To help the Premier League gain insight as to who is playing the game at this level
to help ensure compliance with the Premier Leagues Inclusion and Anti-Discrimination Policy (a copy of which is in
Appendix 2 of the Premier Leagues Rules)
to compile aggregate statistics and reports
- on a club by club basis which we may wish to share with the relevant club only and The Football
Association Limited.
- on a league basis which we may wish to publish for public interest and to share with other bodies that
have a legitimate interest in equal opportunities such as the Professional Footballers Association and the
Equality and Human Rights Commission.
PREMIER LEAGUE
Form 28
AMATEUR REGISTRATION FORM (Rule U.15)
PREMIER LEAGUE FORMS
Players Particulars
Surname Other name(s)
Address
Post Code
Date of birth Nationality*
Application to Register
We hereby apply for the above-named Player to be registered as an Amateur Player for
Football Club.
Signed
Authorised Signatory
Date
Endorsement by Player
I consent to the above application and consent pursuant to Schedule 2 and Schedule 3 of the Data Protection Act
1998 to The Football Association Premier League Limited holding and processing the above personal data and
sensitive personal data for the purpose of discharging its functions as a regulatory and governing body of
football. I certify that the above particulars are correct. I agree to be bound by the Rules of the Premier League.
[Having been registered as a Contract Player, I confirm that at least 30 days has elapsed since my contract
registration terminated.**]
Signed
Date
* if the player last played for a club affiliated to a national association other than the Football Association, this Form must
be accompanied by written confirmation from the Football Association that an international registration transfer
certificate has been issued in respect of the player.
** delete words in brackets if inapplicable
Secretarys Certificate
I hereby certify that I have this day registered [name of Player]
as an Amateur Player whose registration is held by
Football Club
Signed
Secretary, the Premier League
Date
296
PREMIER LEAGUE
Form 29
TRANSFER AGREEMENT (Rule V.11.1)
The Parties
(1)
(2)
Football Club (the Transferor Club)
Football Club (the Transferee Club)
PREMIER LEAGUE FORMS
The Player
The full name of the Contract Player whose registration is hereby transferred by the Transferor Club to the
Transferee Club is
The Compensation Fee
The amount of the Compensation Fee payable by the Transferee Club to the Transferor Club is
together with Value Added Tax amounting to
to be paid as follows:
Contingent Sums
Particulars of any Contingent Sums payable by the Transferee Club to the Transferor Club are as follows:
Any other terms
Agents
The particulars appear below of any Agent engaged in this transaction by
(1) the Player
(2) the Transferor Club
(3) the Transferee Club
Authorised Signatory
on behalf of the
Transferor Club
Authorised Signatory
on behalf of the
Transferee Club
Position
Position
Date
Date
297
PREMIER LEAGUE
Form 30
OFFER OF NEW CONTRACT (Rule V.17.2)
To:
[name and address of Out of Contract Player]
PREMIER LEAGUE FORMS
Copy to: The Secretary
The Premier League
Under the provisions of Rule V.17.2 of the Rules of the Premier League
Football Club hereby offers you a new contract to commence on the 1st July
in the
following terms:
This offer remains open and capable of acceptance for a period of one month within which time you may either
accept it and enter into a new contract in the terms offered or decline it in writing. If you consider that the terms
offered are less favourable than those in your current contract you may give notice to that effect in Form 31.
Signed
Position
Date
298
PREMIER LEAGUE
Form 31
APPLICATION FOR FREE TRANSFER (Rule V.20)
To:
[name of Club]
Football Club
And to: The Secretary
The Premier League
I acknowledge having received your offer of a new contract in Form 30 dated
PREMIER LEAGUE FORMS
I consider that the terms offered are less favourable than those in my current contract dated
hereby give notice to that effect and apply for a free transfer.
Signed
Position
Date
299
PREMIER LEAGUE
Form 32
CONTINGENT SUM NOTIFICATION (Rule V.36.2)
To:
[name of Transferor Club]
Football Club
Copy to: The Secretary
The Premier League
PREMIER LEAGUE FORMS
A Contingent Sum became payable to you on [date]
Agreement between us relating to [name of Contract Player]
by virtue of the Transfer
The contingent event resulting in the Contingent Sum becoming payable was
and the Contingent Sum which will be paid into the Compensation Fee Account within 7 days of it becoming
due amounts to
Signed on behalf of
the Transferee Club
Position
Date
300
PREMIER LEAGUE
Form 33
FIXED PENALTY NOTICE (Rule W.4)
To: Date:
You are in breach of Rule
in that on [date]
you [description of breach, indicating in appropriate cases whether it is a first, second or third breach of that Rule]
Failure to pay the fixed penalty as required by this notice or forthwith upon any appeal being dismissed will
constitute a breach of the Rules of the League in respect of which you will be liable to be dealt with under the
provisions of Section W.
Signed
Secretary, for and on behalf of the Board
301
PREMIER LEAGUE FORMS
You are required within 14 days of the date of this notice to pay a fixed penalty of
Alternatively, you are entitled within that period to appeal under the provisions of Rule W.61.1. If you appeal and
your appeal is dismissed the fixed penalty becomes payable forthwith.
PREMIER LEAGUE
Form 34
SUMMARY JURISDICTION NOTICE (Rule W.9)
To: Date:
PREMIER LEAGUE FORMS
You are in breach of Rule
you [description of breach]
in that on [date]
The Board intends to exercise its summary jurisdiction and to impose on you a fine of
You are required within 14 days of the date of this notice to either:
(1) submit to the Boards jurisdiction and pay the fine imposed; or
(2) elect to be dealt with by a Commission.
Any such election should be in writing addressed to me at the League Office.
Failure to comply with this requirement within the time limited will constitute a breach of the Rules of the League
in respect of which you will be liable to be dealt with under the provisions of Section W.
Signed
Secretary, for and on behalf of the Board
302
PREMIER LEAGUE
Form 35
COMPLAINT (Rule W.25)
To: Date:
The Boards complaint is that you are in breach of Rule
you [description of breach]
in that on [date]
PREMIER LEAGUE FORMS
A summary of the facts alleged is as follows:
* Annexed hereto are copies of the following documents upon which the Board relies:
In accordance with Rule W.29, within 14 days of receipt of this complaint you are required to send to me by
recorded delivery post a written answer in Form 36.
Signed
Secretary, for and on behalf of the Board
* delete if inapplicable
303
PREMIER LEAGUE
Form 36
ANSWER (Rule W.29)
To:
The Secretary Date:
The Premier League
I/We* acknowledge having received the complaint dated
The complaint is admitted/denied*. I/We* request that the complaint be determined by written representations.*
PREMIER LEAGUE FORMS
*[If the complaint is admitted] I/We* ask the Commission to take into account the following mitigation:
*[If the complaint is denied and is to be determined at a hearing] My/Our* reasons for denying the complaint are:
*[If the complaint is denied and is to be determined by written representations] My/Our* representations are
asfollows:
Annexed hereto are copies of the following documents upon which I/We* rely:
I consent pursuant to Schedule 2 and Schedule 3 of the Data Protection Act 1998 to The Football Association
Premier League Limited holding and processing any or all personal data and sensitive personal data contained
above and/or annexed to this Form 36 for the purpose of discharging its functions as a regulatory and governing
body of football.**
Signed
Position
[for and on behalf of*] the Respondent
* delete as appropriate
continue on separate sheet if necessary
** delete where Respondent is not an individual
304
PREMIER LEAGUE
Form 37
APPEAL AGAINST FIXED PENALTY (Rule W.65)
To:
The Secretary Date:
The Premier League
I/We* hereby appeal against the fixed penalty imposed by the notice in Form 33 dated
My/our* appeal is
* against the decision of the Board to impose the fixed penalty.
* against the amount of the fixed penalty.
* against the decision of the Board to impose the fixed penalty and its amount.
The grounds of my/our* appeal are:
PREMIER LEAGUE FORMS
A deposit of 1,000 is enclosed.
I consent pursuant to Schedule 2 and Schedule 3 of the Data Protection Act 1998 to The Football Association
Premier League Limited holding and processing any and all personal data and sensitive personal data
contained above and/or annexed to this Form 37 for the purpose of discharging its functions as a regulatory and
governing body of football. **
Signed#
Position
[for and on behalf of*] the Respondent
* delete as appropriate
continue on separate sheet if necessary
** delete where Respondent is not an individual
# state position if signed on behalf of a Club
305
PREMIER LEAGUE
Form 38
APPEAL AGAINST COMMISSION DECISION (Rule W.66)
PREMIER LEAGUE FORMS
To:
The Secretary Date:
The Premier League
I/We* hereby appeal against the decision of the Commission before which I/We* appeared dated
My/our* appeal is
* against the decision of the Commission
* against the amount of the penalty
* against the decision of the Commission and the penalty.
* against the amount of compensation ordered by the Commission
The grounds of My/our* appeal are:
*I/We intend to apply at the appeal hearing for leave to adduce the following fresh evidence
The reasons for such application are
A deposit of 1,000 is enclosed.
I consent pursuant to Schedule 2 and Schedule 3 of the Data Protection Act 1998 to The Football Association
Premier League Limited holding and processing any and all personal data and sensitive personal data
contained above and/or annexed to this Form 38 for the purpose of discharging its functions as a regulatory and
governing body of football. **
Signed#
* delete whichever are inapplicable
continue on separate sheet if necessary
** delete where Respondent is not an individual
# state position if signed on behalf of a Club
306
PREMIER LEAGUE
Form 39
REQUEST FOR ARBITRATION (Rules X.8 or Y.3)
To: From:
A dispute has arisen between us concerning (brief description of matters in dispute)
PREMIER LEAGUE FORMS
I/We wish to have the dispute settled by arbitration in accordance with the provisions of Section [ ] of the
Rules of the Premier League and you are hereby required to appoint an arbitrator pursuant thereto. *I consent
pursuant to Schedule 2 and Schedule 3 of the Data Protection Act 1998 to The Football Association Premier
League Limited holding and processing any and all personal data and sensitive personal data contained above
and/or annexed to this Form 39 for the purpose of discharging its functions as a regulatory and governing body
of football.
Signed
Position**
Date
insert Y if the arbitration is to be determined by the Managers Arbitration Tribunal; insert X in any other case.
* delete if request for arbitration is made on behalf of a company
** to be completed if the Form is signed on behalf of the League or a Club.
Copy to: The Secretary
The Premier League
307
PREMIER LEAGUE
Form 40
APPOINTMENT OF ARBITRATOR (Rules X.10 or Y.6)
PREMIER LEAGUE FORMS
To:
The Secretary From:
The Premier League
Pursuant to the request for arbitration made by
and
dated
, I/we hereby appoint
(name of appointee)
as an arbitrator in the arbitration requested.
Signed
Position*
Date
Copy to: (the other party)
* to be completed if the Form is signed on behalf of the League or a Club.
308
PREMIER LEAGUE
Form 41
APPOINTMENT OF SINGLE ARBITRATOR (Rule X.15.1)
To:
The Secretary
The Premier League
Pursuant to the request for arbitration made by
and dated
we, the parties to the arbitration, hereby jointly
appoint (name of appointee)
as the single
arbitrator in the arbitration requested.
Signed
Signed
On behalf of
On behalf of
Position*
Position*
Date
Date
* to be completed if the Form is signed on behalf of the League or a Club.
309
PREMIER LEAGUE FORMS
PREMIER LEAGUE
Form 42
NOTICE OF PRELIMINARY MEETING (Rules X.20 or Y.13)
PREMIER LEAGUE FORMS
To: From:
You are hereby required to attend a preliminary meeting at (place)
on (date) at (time) when the tribunal will give
directions for the conduct of the arbitration to which each of you is a party.
Signed
Date
310
Chairman
PREMIER LEAGUE FORMS
311
312
PREMIER LEAGUE FORMS
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT RULES
YOUTH
DEVELOPMENT
RULES
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT RULES
GENERAL
Note: throughout this document binding Premier League Rules are shaded in light blue. Guidance and other
notes are also included for the assistance of Clubs. Such guidance and notes do not, however, form part of
the Rules.
Definitions
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT RULES
Rule 1 sets out definitions used in the Youth Development Rules. All other capitalised terms used in this
section of the Rules are defined in Premier League Rule A.1.
1.
In this Section of the Rules the following terms shall have the following meanings:
1.1.
Academy means an establishment for the coaching and education of Academy Players
operated by a Club in accordance with the requirements of this Section of the Rules and
licensed by the PGB pursuant to Rule 18.
1.2.
Academy Doctor means the Official referred to in Rule 103.
1.3.
Academy Financial Information means a budget for the following season, together with
a comparison of the budgeted and actual figures for the previous season, all of which
information shall be set out in the format to be prescribed by the League.
1.4.
Academy Management Team has the meaning set out in Rule 57.
1.5.
Academy Manager means the person responsible for the strategic leadership and
operation of a Clubs Academy, whose role and responsibilities are more particularly defined
at Rules 59 to 65.
1.6.
Academy Performance Plan means a document which sets out:
(a) the goals, strategy and measurable short-term and long-term performance targets for
all aspects of the work of the Clubs Academy, such strategy and performance targets to
be consistent with the Clubs Vision Statement, Coaching Philosophy and Playing
Philosophy; and
(b) without prejudice to the generality of paragraph a), how the Academy will deliver and
integrate its Coaching, Education, Games and Sports Science and Medicine Programmes.
1.7.
Academy Player means a male player (other than an Amateur Player, Non-Contract
Player (in the Football League) or a Trialist) who is in an age group between Under 9 to Under
21 and who is registered for and who is coached by or plays football for or at a Club which
operates an Academy pursuant to these Rules, save for any player who:
(a) the Board is satisfied has developed technical, tactical, physical, psychological and social
skills of such a level that he would not benefit from continued coaching in the Academy
or participating or continuing to participate in its Games Programme; and
(b) has entered into a written contract of employment in Form 26 with that Club.
Guidance
It is emphasised that Academy Players aged 17 or older may no longer be classified as such only where the Board approves
an application by the Club in the light of all the circumstances relevant to the particular Academy Player and on such terms
as the Board considers appropriate.
The duties of a Club in relation to the provision of an Education Programme, Safeguarding and Welfare, Social Development
and Lifestyle Management continue.
314
GENERAL
Clubs attention is drawn to Rule 78 which requires Clubs to develop and implement a procedure to enable the transition
of Academy Players to the senior squad, and also to Rule 118.1 which provides that each Academy Player has access to
coaching tailored to his individual needs. Any decision by a Club to cease treating an Academy Player as such where it is
not reasonable to do so in the light of his overall development and skill level may be treated at being a breach of this Rule.
1.8.
Academy Secretary means the Official referred to in Rule 66
1.9.
Academy Staff means those Officials of a Club employed or otherwise engaged to work
in the Clubs Academy.
Guidance
1.10.
Artificial Surface means a playing surface which in the reasonable opinion of the League
meets the requirements of the FIFA Quality Concept for Football Turf and:
(a) any new outdoor Artificial Surface pitch installed by a Club which operates or applies to
operate a Category 1 Academy must achieve the FIFA recommended 2 star rating under
the FIFA Quality Concept for Football Turf; and
(b) any new indoor Artificial Surface pitch installed by a Club which operates or applies to
operate a Category 1 Academy must achieve the FIFA recommended 2 star rating under
the FIFA Quality Concept for Football Turf.
Guidance
To achieve and maintain the FIFA 2 star rating under the FIFA Quality Concept for Football Turf, the Artificial Surface pitch
needs to be certified on an annual basis by a FIFA accredited agent.
Existing Artificial Surface pitches have a natural life span. Accordingly, as they reach the end of their natural life span, they
should be replaced with pitches that achieve the necessary star rating under the FIFA Quality Concept for Football Turf.
1.11.
Audit Tool means the online application maintained by the League and approved by the PGB
for the purpose of undertaking (in particular by the ISO) the evaluation and audit of Academies
by the assessment of:
(a) the extent to which a Club meets the criteria for Academies set out in these Rules;
(b) the extent to and manner in which a Club meets or exceeds the recommended best
practice criteria which are set out in the Audit Tool; and
(c) its Productivity Profile.
1.12.
Authorised Games means:
(a) international matches arranged by a national association including preparation and
trials therefor; or
(b) matches in which the Academy Player plays for the Club holding his registration:
(i) in its first teams; or
(ii) which are comprised in a Games Programme; or
(iii) which are comprised in Festivals or Tournaments, participation in which is limited to
Academy teams or which are sanctioned by the Football Association or by a foreign
national association; or
315
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT RULES
The term employ is used in the Rules with reference to Academy Staff, but it is accepted that the relationship need not
necessarily be one of employment. For example, a Club may enter into a contract for services with Part Time youth
coaches whereby no employment relationship will arise. Any references to employ or employment in this section of
the Rules shall be interpreted accordingly.
GENERAL
(c) friendly matches organised by the Club holding the Academy Players registration and
played at an Academy, participation in which is limited to Academy Players registered at
an Academy or Trialists but excluding matches between two teams consisting of one
Clubs Academy Players; or
(d) friendly matches against any opposition played outside the season dates set out in the
Games Programme Schedule in which the Academy Player plays for the Club holding his
registration; or
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT RULES
(e) matches organised by the English Schools Football Association or Independent Schools
Football
(f) trial matches for other Clubs or Football League clubs in which the Academy Player plays
with the prior written permission of the Club holding his registration; or
(g) any other match authorised by the Board.
1.13.
Basic First Aid for Sport Qualification means the qualification of that name issued by or
on behalf of the Football Association.
Guidance
The Basic First Aid for Sport Qualification (BFAS) is a course which has been developed and delivered by the FA since
Season 2012/13.
The BFAS will need to be renewed every three years (it is hoped as part of the renewal of the main Academy coaching
qualifications).
1.14.
Category means one of the 4 categories into which each Academy shall be assigned in
accordance with the criteria and procedures set out in this section of the Rules, and Category
1, Category 2, Category 3 and Category 4 shall be construed accordingly.
1.15.
Charter for Academy Players and Parents means the information to be provided by the
League to the Parent of each Academy Player upon each occasion of his registration for a Club
and which will contain:
(a) information about the consequences of the Academy Player becoming registered with
a Club;
(b) a summary of the Clubs obligations to the Academy Player, and the Academy Players
obligations to the Club.
1.16.
Chief Executive means the Official referred to in Rule J.1.1.
1.17.
Club Board means those Directors of the Club whose particulars are registered under
section 162 of the Act.
1.18.
Coach Competency Framework means a document which sets out the key competencies
and behaviours which the Club expects its Academy coaches to possess and demonstrate.
1.19.
Coaching Philosophy means a written statement which sets out in detail (including by
describing the content of individual coaching sessions for each Academy Player) the means
by which the Club will coach its Academy Players in each age group so that they have the best
opportunity to develop the technical, tactical, physical, psychological and social skills that
the Club wishes players in each position on the pitch to acquire, as set out in the Clubs
Playing Philosophy.
316
GENERAL
1.20.
Coaching Curriculum means a Clubs coaching curriculum which must be set out in
writing and include:
(a) the technical, tactical, physical, psychological and social skills that the Club wishes its
Academy Players to develop;
(b) the appropriate means of coaching Academy Players in order that they develop those
skills (having due regard to their age); and
(c) specific coaching curricula for each Development Phase.
Continued Professional Development means ongoing training for Academy Staff, relevant
to their discipline, of such quality, content and frequency as is necessary to ensure that each
member of Academy Staff has the necessary knowledge and expertise in order to fulfil his role.
1.22.
Core Coaching Time means between 8.30am and 5.30pm on Mondays to Fridays, save
that in the Foundation Phase and Youth Development Phase it also includes between 9am
and 5pm on Saturdays.
1.23
Core Condition means each of the individual Rules referred to below:
Rule Number
Description
29
Academy Performance Plan in place
59-65
Academy Manager* (QUALIFICATIONS AND CONTRACT)
*The Academy Manager Role can still be combined with the
Head of Academy Coaching role as long as there is a Full Time
Operations Manager.
68-69
Head of Academy Coaching*
(QUALIFICATIONS AND CONTRACT)
*The Academy Manager role can still be combined with the
Head of Academy Coaching role as long as there is an additional
Full Time Academy Operations Manager.
66
Academy Secretary (CONTRACT)
108
Head of Education (QUALIFICATIONS AND CONTRACT)
87-93
Head of Sports Science and Medicine
(QUALIFICATIONS AND CONTRACT)
109
Head of Recruitment (QUALIFICATIONS AND CONTRACT)
76-77 / 79-86
Senior Professional Development Coach
(QUALIFICATIONS AND CONTRACT)
70-72 / 79-86
Coach 1 Foundation Phase (Lead Phase Coach):
(QUALIFICATIONS AND CONTRACT)
70-72 / 79-86
Coach 2 Foundation Phase
(QUALIFICATIONS AND CONTRACT)
317
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT RULES
1.21.
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT RULES
GENERAL
318
70-72 / 79-86
Coach 1 Youth Development Phase (Lead Phase Coach):
(QUALIFICATIONS AND CONTRACT)
70-72 / 79-86
Coach 2 Youth Development Phase
(QUALIFICATIONS AND CONTRACT)
70-72 / 79-86
Coach 1 Professional Development Phase
(QUALIFICATIONS AND CONTRACT)
70-72 / 79-86
Coach 2 Professional Development Phase
(QUALIFICATIONS AND CONTRACT)
73-75 / 79-86
Coach 2 Professional Development Phase
(QUALIFICATIONS AND CONTRACT)
73-75 / 79-86
Goalkeeping Coach(es): (QUALIFICATIONS AND CONTRACT)
185
Academy Safeguarding Officer (CONTRACT)
94-96
Lead Sports Scientist (QUALIFICATIONS AND CONTRACT)
97-98
Lead Strength and Conditioning Coach
(QUALIFICATIONS AND CONTRACT)
103
Medical
99
Senior Academy Physiotherapist
(QUALIFICATIONS AND CONTRACT)
100-102
Registered Physiotherapist member of the Health and Care
Professions Council and Sports Therapists
(QUALIFICATIONS AND CONTRACT)
104-105
Performance Analyst 1 (CONTRACT)
104-105
Performance Analyst 2 (CONTRACT)
179-183
Education Programme in place for Full Time Training Model
(FTTM) and Hybrid Training Model (HTM); includes monitoring
academic progression
308
Grass pitches Note: The ISO will also report on the number and
condition of grass pitches for this to be assessed in terms of the
adequacy of available grass pitches and demand.
313
Floodlit outdoor Artificial Surface pitch site at the Academy
308
Designated Goalkeepers (Grass) Training Area
314
Indoor Artificial Surface pitch
315
Changing Rooms
315
Washing and toilet facilities
GENERAL
Team meeting room on site (20 people)
317
Guest / Parents Lounge (50 people)
318
Match Analysis Suite to hold 20 people (fully equipped)
320
Academy Administration Office space and facilities
320
Private meeting room on site
322
Classrooms for 20 people (min. 20 computers)
54
Each member of Academy Staff has an employment contract or
a statement of terms of employment or in the case of a
non-employee, a contract for services
Other
The ISO will be asked to confirm also that the following are
being addressed:
- Health and Safety audit result at the current acceptable
standard of a score at least 85%
- Safeguarding provisions: compliance with Rule S
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT RULES
1.24.
316
Development Phase means an individualised plan, developed and implemented in
accordance with these Rules, for the professional development of an Academy coach.
Guidance
See further Rules 83 to 86.
1.25.
Development Centre means an establishment operated by a Club in England or Wales for
the coaching of Children which is not an Academy and includes any such establishment by
whatever name or title it is known.
1.26.
Development Phase means the Foundation Phase, the Youth Development Phase or the
Professional Development Phase as the context requires, and Development Phases means
all of the former.
1.27.
Education Advisory Group means the group consisting of two persons appointed by the
League, two appointed by the Football League, and an independent chair.
1.28.
Education Ombudsman means an expert appointed by the League to undertake, amongst
other things, the verification of Clubs Hybrid and Full Time Training Models to ensure that
they comply with these Rules, and to advise the Education Advisory Group and PGB thereon.
An Education Ombudsman shall either be an experienced educational practitioner or a coach
who has extensive experience in youth development.
1.29.
Education Programme has the meaning set out in Rule 179
1.30.
Elite Player Performance Plan means the document of that name dated May 2011 and
presented to the General Meeting held on Thursday 2 June 2011.
319
GENERAL
1.31.
Emergency Action Plan means a plan detailing the medical facilities and personnel who
shall be available at each Clubs home matches in the Games Programmes, and the
contingency plan for how any medical emergencies at such matches shall be dealt with.
1.32.
FA Advanced Youth Award means the advanced qualification for Academy coaches to be
developed and awarded by the Football Association.
Guidance
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT RULES
The FA Advanced Youth Award contains a specialist element relevant to each Development Phase. Coaches will be
required to hold the specialism relevant to the age group that they coach.
1.33.
FA Youth Award means the non-age specific qualification for Academy coaches awarded
by the Football Association.
1.34.
Festival means an event, which may be spread over more than one day, at which teams
from three or more Clubs (or clubs) play a series of matches in an environment in which the
matches are competitive but the results are not given any particular significance.
1.35.
Foundation Phase means the Under 9 to Under 11 age groups inclusive.
1.36.
Foundation Phase Games Programme means the games programmes organised by the
League and the Football League for teams in each of the Under 9 to Under 11 age groups as
set out in Rules 136 to 140.
1.37.
Full Time means, when applied to a role specified under these Rules, one where the
working hours are at least 35 hours per week (subject to such additional hours as the Club
may require). A Full Time role may be fulfilled by more than one Official (e.g. on a job-share
basis) provided that the minimum hours stated above are undertaken.
Guidance
A Club will not be penalised should a member of its Academy Staff fulfilling one of the roles required by these Rules to be
Full Time if working slightly less than 35 hours per week provided that the required outputs of that role are being
satisfactorily delivered. See further, by way of comparison, Rule 52 and the guidance thereunder.
1.38.
Full Time Education means the education provided for registered pupils at primary or
secondary schools or full-time equivalent students at colleges of further education.
1.39.
Full Time Training Model means:
1.39.1 in the Professional Development Phase a programme of coaching and education
whereby the Academy Players academic education shall be scheduled to enable
four hours of coaching per day (which may be split into two sessions of two hours
each) to take place within the Core Coaching Time; and
1.39.2 in the Youth Development Phase, a programme which complies with the following:
(a) The Academy Player shall receive within the Core Coaching Time a minimum
of twenty hours of education.
320
GENERAL
(b) The Academy Player shall receive a significant amount of coaching within the
Core Coaching Time. The exact amount of such coaching to take place within
the Core Coaching Time is to be determined by the Club for each individual
Academy Player. The Club shall demonstrate the amount of coaching is
significantly more than the amount of coaching in the Core Coaching Time
which the Club gives to its Academy Players engaged on the Hybrid Training
Model. Full details must be set out in the Academy Players individual
coaching plan referred to in Rule 118.
(d) The Clubs delivery of the Full Time Training Model must comply with these Rules.
1.40.
Futsal means the variant of association football that is played in accordance with the
Futsal Laws of the Game as published from time to time by FIFA (with any such variation
thereto as the League may from time to time determine), the current such Laws being
available at:
http://www.fifa.com/mm/document/affederation/generic/51/44/50/
futsallawsofthegameen.pdf
1.41.
Games Programme means the Foundation Phase Games Programme, the Youth
Development Phase Games Programme, or the Professional Development Phase Games
Programme.
1.42.
Games Programme Schedule means the period during which matches in the Games
Programmes shall take place. The League will by no later than 31 January in each year publish
the Games Programme Schedule for the following Season.
Guidance
The Games Programme Schedule incorporates two periods of downtime for matches in the Foundation Phase and
Youth Development Phase Games Programmes. The first such period generally encompasses the last two weeks of July
and the first two weeks of August, and the second encompasses two weeks over Christmas. The exact dates for each
Seasons period of downtime will be set out in the Games Programme Schedule when it is published by the League in the
preceding Season. A provisional date of 31 January in each Season has been set for the publication of the Games
Programme Schedule (although it may be subject to amendment thereafter but before the start of the following Season
to accommodate, for example, newly-classified or re-classified Academies).
The League will conduct at least two consultation meetings with Clubs per season to consider the Games Programme
Schedule for the following season. The first of these will take place in the autumn, and the second in the early new year.
1.43.
Head of Academy Coaching means the Official referred to in Rule 68.
1.44.
Head of Education means the Official referred to in Rule 108.
1.45.
Head of Recruitment means the Official referred to in Rule 109.
321
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT RULES
(c) No single coaching session shall endure for more than 90 minutes, and if there
are two or more coaching sessions on a single day, there shall be a period of rest
between each session sufficient to ensure that the Academy Player is fully
rested, and of at least 90 minutes duration, unless the Academy Players
individual coaching plan recognises that he may have shorter rest periods.
GENERAL
1.46
Hybrid Training Model means a programme of coaching and education whereby the
coaching of an Academy Player primarily takes place outside the Core Coaching Time save
that, subject to the provisions of these Rules, he may be released from attendance at school
during the School Day for a maximum of half a day a week (if he is in the Foundation Phase)
or two days a week (if he is in the Youth Development Phase).
Guidance
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT RULES
Clubs attention is drawn to Rule 197.2, pursuant to which they must provide all necessary additional educational support
so that the Academy Players education is not prejudiced as a result of being released from school to undertake coaching
during the Core Coaching Time.
1.47.
Individual Learning Plan means an individual plan for each Academy Player setting out
measurable objectives for the development that he needs to undertake and the means by
which he will obtain those objectives.
1.48.
Intermediate First Aid for Sport Qualification means the qualification of that name
issued by or on behalf of the Football Association.
1.49.
ISO means the independent standards organisation to be appointed from time to time by
the PGB for the purposes of undertaking the ISO Audits.
1.50.
ISO Audit has the meaning set out in Rule 14.
1.51.
Lifestyle Management Skills means the personal and social skills and knowledge which
it is considered desirable for Academy Players to develop, and training in Lifestyle
Management Skills shall include (without limitation) training or coaching in the following:
(a) dealing with the media;
(b) use of social media;
(c) anti-doping;
(d) financial management;
(e) equality and diversity;
(f) wellbeing i.e. mental health and nutrition; and
(g) further education and careers advice.
1.52.
Multi-disciplinary Review means a review of all aspects of a Academy Players football,
athletic and educational performance and development and which shall include:
(a) reports from all relevant Academy Staff (including from the coaching, education and
sports science and medicine disciplines);
(b) for Academy Players on the Full Time Training Model or the Hybrid Training Model,
reports and educational data from the Academy Players school (and where the League
requests, all Academy Players on the Part Time Training Model);
(c) self-assessment by the Academy Player; and
(d) short, medium and long-term targets for the Academy Players football, athletic and
educational performance and development.
322
GENERAL
Part Time means, when applied to a role specified under these Rules, one where the
working hours are less than 35 hours per week. A Part Time role may be fulfilled by two or
more Officials (e.g. on a job-share basis).
1.54.
Part Time Training Model means a coaching curriculum whereby the coaching of an
Academy Player does not require him to miss any part of the School Day.
1.55.
Performance Analysis means the analysis of the physiological, technical and tactical
performance of each individual Player and, in a game, of the team as a whole. Performance
Analysis shall be undertaken by means of such video and/or IT technology as the League shall
from time to time determine.
1.56.
Performance Analysts means the Officials referred to in Rules 104 and 105.
1.57.
Performance Clock means the application utilised for recording, measuring, monitoring
and evidencing all aspects of an Academy Players progression, development and education
in accordance with the format and procedures to be set by the League.
Guidance
The Education Management System has been developed as a new function contained within the Performance Clock. It
must be used for assisting the management of Academy Players educational attainment data, and reference to the
Performance Clock in these Rules, particularly in the context of education, should be read accordingly.
1.58.
Performance Management Application means the online support service to be
developed and maintained by the League and utilised by each Club for the purposes of
assisting the management of the Academy and recording and analysing data. Such data shall
include (without limitation):
(a) each Academy Players Performance Clock;
(b) key data on Academy Staff such as records of qualification and Continued Professional
Development;
(c) such information as the League may from time to time require for the purposes of
national or Category-wide benchmarking; and
(d) data received from the Football Association in respect of an Academy Player who plays
for, or who is coached by the Football Association with a view to playing for, an England
representative side.
1.59.
PGB means the Professional Game Board of the Football Association.
1.60.
Playing Philosophy means a written statement which sets out:
(a) the principles, values, playing style and tactical approach of all of the Clubs teams
(including its first team); and
(b) profiles detailing, for each age group and the first team, the Clubs desired technical,
tactical, physical, psychological and social skills of players in each position on the pitch.
1.61.
Productivity Methodology means the methodology developed by the League for
analysing the registration and playing history of Players and, as a consequence thereof, for
producing each Clubs Productivity Profile.
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YOUTH DEVELOPMENT RULES
1.53.
GENERAL
1.62.
Productivity Profile means an analysis, produced by the League using the Productivity
Methodology, of each Clubs track record in developing Academy Players, that is to say:
(a) the extent to which Academy Players coached by or at its Academy have progressed to
become established professional Players; and accordingly;
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT RULES
(b) the extent to which the Club is successful in contributing to the development of
established professional Players.
1.63.
Professional Development Leagues means the leagues of that name managed, organised
and controlled by the League (in the case of Clubs operating Category 1 and Category 2
Academies) or by the Football League (in the case of Clubs operating Category 3 and Category
4 Academies) and Professional Development League 1, Professional Development League
2 and Professional Development League 3 shall be construed accordingly.
1.64.
Professional Development Phase means the Under 17 to Under 21 age groups inclusive.
1.65.
Professional Development Phase Games Programme means the games programmes
organised by the League and Football League for teams in the Professional Development
Phase as set out in Rules 156 to 162.
1.66.
Qualified Teacher Status means the accreditation which an individual must obtain in
order to teach in state-maintained schools in England and Wales.
1.67.
Scholarship Agreement means an agreement made between a Club and an Academy
Player in PLYD Form 1.
1.68.
School Day means the times when the pupils of a school are required to attend that
school as determined by its governors.
1.69.
Scout means any person employed or engaged by a Club (whether on a Full Time or Part
Time basis and whether or not he is remunerated in any way for his services) whose duties
include identifying to his Club players whose registration as Academy Players the Club may
wish to secure.
1.70.
Scout Identification Card means a formal means of identification to be issued by the
League to each registered Scout which shall include:
(a) the name of the Club which employs the Scout; and
(b) a photograph of the Scout.
1.71.
Senior Academy Physiotherapist means the Official referred to in Rule 99.
1.72.
Senior Professional Development Coach means the Official referred to in Rule 76.
1.73.
Sports Science and Medicine Programme means an integrated, interdisciplinary
programme for the provision of sports science and medical, services and analysis as more
particularly described in Rules 213 to 223.
1.74.
Sports Therapist means a person who holds at least an undergraduate degree in sports
therapy.
1.75.
Technical Board has the meaning set out in Rules 34 to 36.
324
GENERAL
Tournament means a grouping of competitive matches between three or more clubs
whose results are given significance (e.g. there may be a winner of the Tournament) and
which are typically played together at one venue and over a short period of time (e.g. one day
or a few days).
1.77.
Training Camp means an event for the Academy Players of one Club and which lasts for
one or more days and at which a variety of coaching and other on-pitch and off-pitch
activities takes place.
1.78.
Training Model means the Full Time Training Model, the Hybrid Training Model or the Part
Time Training Model.
1.79.
Trialist means a player playing in age groups Under 9 to Under 21 who is attending an
Academy on trial under the provisions of Rules 243 or 244.
1.80.
Vision Statement means a written statement of the Clubs desired culture, values,
ambitions and strategic aims, and the behaviours and activities which the Club has adopted
and will adopt (including within its Academy) in order to achieve the same.
1.81.
Youth Development Phase means the Under 12 to Under 16 age groups inclusive.
1.82.
Youth Development Phase Games Programme means the games programmes
organised by the League and Football League for teams in each of the Under 12 to Under 16
age groups, full details of which are set out in Rules 141 to 155.
2.
For the purposes of this section of these Rules:
2.1.
Academy Players shall be placed in one of 13 age groups commencing with age group
Under 9 and ending with age group Under 21; and
2.2. the age group into which each Academy Player shall be placed shall be determined by
his age on 31 August in the year in question, save in the case of players in the Under 21
age group, who must be under the age of 21 as at 1 January in the year in which the
Season concerned commences (i.e. for Season 2015/16 born on or after 1 January
1994).
General
3.
If a Club engages in the training and development of young players then it must:
3.1.
obtain a licence to operate an Academy; and
3.2. operate its Academy in accordance with this section of the Rules.
4.
The maximum term of a licence to operate an Academy shall be three years, unless revoked
earlier in accordance with these Rules or extended by the PGB at its sole discretion.
5.
There shall be four Categories of Academy.
Applications to Operate Academies
6.
Each Club which operates or applies to operate an Academy shall give the League and the ISO
access to such facilities, personnel, documents and records as they reasonably require in
order to undertake their responsibilities under these Rules.
325
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT RULES
1.76.
GENERAL
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT RULES
7.
A Club which wishes to operate (or continue to operate) a Category 1 Academy with effect
from 1 July 2016 must:
7.1.
have submitted to the PGB by 1 May 2015 a written application to do so, signed on
behalf of the Club by an Authorised Signatory;
7.2.
submit to the League by 30 July 2015 evidence (in the form prescribed by the League
from time to time) that it is compliant with the Core Conditions.
8.
The PGB, acting on the advice of the ISO, shall determine whether each applicant Club
complies with the Core Conditions and notify each such Club of its determination by 1
September 2015.
9.
The PGB shall determine that a Club either:
9.1.
does not comply with the Core Conditions, in which event the PGB shall not grant it a
licence to operate a Category 1 Academy; or
9.2. complies with the Core Conditions, in which event the Club must by 30 September
2015 complete the Audit Tool.
10
The ISO shall conduct an ISO Audit of each Academy at least once every three years (subject
to any decision of the PGB that an ISO Audit shall be undertaken less frequently or any
requirement of these Rules which provides for ISO Audits to be undertaken more frequently),
the results of which shall be made available to the Club, the League and the PGB.
11.
The ISO will undertake an ISO Audit between October 2015 and March 2016 of each Club to
which Rule 9.2 applies.
12.
Each applicant Club shall be given reasonable notice of the dates of its ISO Audit and may not
change those dates save with the permission of the PGB, which shall only be granted if the
PGB is satisfied there are exceptional circumstances which justify such a change.
Guidance
It is anticipated that the ISO will require to visit each Club for around 3 days in order to undertake its ISO Audit.
13.
Save where Rule 9.1 applies, the PGB shall not determine the applications to operate
Category 1 Academies with effect from 1 July 2016 until all the ISO Audits undertaken
pursuant to Rule 11 have been completed.
14.
In respect of each Club which applies for an Academy Licence, the ISO shall undertake an
analysis (the ISO Audit) of the matters set out in Rule 1.11(a) to (c).
326
GENERAL
15.
Where a Club which wishes to obtain a licence to operate a Category 2, 3 or 4 Academy (and
is not currently licensed to operate an Academy):
15.1 the Club shall:
15.1.1 submit to the League an application by no later than 31 May immediately
prior to the commencement of the relevant Season;
15.1.2 co-operate with the Leagues assessment (by whatever means) of the Clubs
compliance with the criteria applicable to the relevant Category;
15.3 where the League is not satisfied that the Club will meet the criteria applicable to the
relevant Category, the League may recommend to the PGB that the PGB award:
15.3.1 a provisional Academy Licence for such lower Category as appropriate having
regard to the criteria which are met by the Club as evidenced by the application; or
15.3.2 no provisional Academy Licence at all;
15.4. The PGB shall give due consideration to:
15.4.1 a Clubs application for a provisional Academy Licence; and
15.4.2 the recommendation of the League in accordance with Rule 15.3, and shall
determine the Category of each Academy in respect of which it grants a
provisional Academy Licence, if any. A Club shall only have the right to make
representations to the PGB in connection with its application for a provisional
Academy Licence if Rule 15.3 applies.
16.
The ISO Audit shall utilise the Audit Tool by assessing and recording thereon a score in
respect of the matters set out in Rule 1.11(a) to (c).
17.
Prior to an ISO Audit being presented to the PGB, the ISO shall:
17.1. give to the Club a copy of it and of the ISOs recommendation as to whether the Club
should be granted a licence to operate an Academy and if so what the Category of the
Academy should be;
17.2. thereafter hold a meeting with Officials of the Club and representatives of the League
to discuss it; and
17.3. consider any representations made by the Club or the League about the Clubs ISO
Audit and make all appropriate amendments to the ISO Audit consequent upon those
representations.
Guidance
It is expected that the Club Officials who will attend the meeting with the ISO and the League referred to in Rule 17.2 will
include the Academy Manager and the Chief Executive.
327
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT RULES
15.2 where the League is satisfied, acting reasonably, that the Club will meet the criteria
applicable to the Category applied for, the League shall recommend to the PGB that
the PGB award a provisional Academy Licence for that Category;
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT RULES
GENERAL
18.
The PGB, having given due consideration to a Clubs ISO Audit and recommendation and to
the advice of the League, shall (where appropriate) issue all licences to operate Academies
and shall determine the Category of each Academy in respect of which it grants a licence.
19.
In determining the Category of each Academy the PGB will consider and rely upon an
anonymised report from the ISO on all applications for the same Category, which shall
include a comparison of the scores obtained by each applicant and their Malus Scores, and a
recommendation by the ISO as to the Category to be awarded, together with reasons.
20.
For the avoidance of doubt, a Club shall only have the right to make representations to the
PGB in connection with its application for an Academy licence if it believes that the ISO Audit
contains manifest error.
21.
A Club may only appeal against the decision of the PGB not to issue it a licence to operate an
Academy, or against the PGBs determination of the Category of its Academy, if that decision was:
21.1. reached as a result of fraud, malice or bad faith; or
21.2 reached as a result of procedural errors so great that the rights of the Club have been
clearly and substantially prejudiced; or
21.3 reached as a result of a perverse interpretation of the law; or
21.4 one which could not reasonably have been reached by any tribunal which had applied
its mind properly to the facts of the case.
22.
Any appeal by a Club pursuant to Rule 21 shall be dealt with in accordance with Rule K
(Arbitration) of the Rules of the Football Association.
23.
A Club may not:
23.1 re-apply for a licence to operate an Academy within three years of the determination
by the PGB of an application made by it unless:
23.1.1 the PGB is satisfied that there are exceptional circumstances which justify a
further application; and
23.1.2 the Club bears any costs of the League, ISO and PGB reasonably incurred by
any of those bodies in assessing and determining the Clubs further application.
23.2. apply for a licence to operate an Academy higher than that which the Club is licensed
to operate where those Clubs already operating in that higher Category are scheduled
to be re-audited in the following Season.
Guidance
Whether there are exceptional circumstances which justify a further application will be entirely at the discretion of the
PGB. By way of example only, the following may be considered to be exceptional circumstances. However, each case
will be judged on its own facts and accordingly there is no guarantee that even if the following apply the PGB will grant
permission for a re-application.
The circumstances referred to above include a change in ownership or strategic priority within the Club leading to a
significantly high level of commitment to and investment in the Academy. The Club would need to demonstrate an
improvement in performance against targets, not simply plans to improve performance.
Rule 23.2 is intended to restrict, for example, a Club operating a Category 3 Academy applying to upgrade to operate a
Category 2 Academy during Season 2015/16, as the ISO will be undertaking full audits of all Category 2 Clubs from the
start of Season 2016/17 and in those circumstances it is reasonable to expect the Club seeking the upgrade to align with
that process.
328
GENERAL
24.
Upon a Club making a further application pursuant to Rule 23, the ISO shall conduct a further
ISO Audit of the Club.
25.
Any Club or Official making a false statement (whether made verbally or in writing) or
falsifying a document in connection with:
25.1. an application for an Academy licence;
25.2. the Leagues annual evaluation undertaken pursuant to Rule 38;
25.3. an ISO Audit; or
25.4. any other provision of these Rules;
26.
If, in breach of Rule 3.2, a Club fails to comply with any Rule in this section, or if a Club or Official
makes a false statement or falsifies a document as set out in Rule 25, then the PGB may:
26.1. revoke the Clubs Academy licence; or
26.2. suspend the Clubs Academy licence for such time as it shall determine during which
the Club shall have the opportunity to ensure it becomes compliant with the relevant
Rule; or
26.3. determine that the Clubs Academy shall have a lower Category than its current
Category;
26.4. withdraw or suspend the Clubs entitlement to any central funding provided for the
purposes of youth development; and
26.5. in any of the above cases require the ISO to undertake an ISO Audit of the Clubs
Academy as soon as reasonably practicable.
27.
Without prejudice to Rules 26, 235 and 236, any breach of Rules 3.2, 6, 25, 32.2, 42 to 50, 54,
55, 56.1, 116 to 120, 123.2, 127 to 129, 131, 132, 139, 140, 153 to 155, 162 to 164, 171, 172, 176,
177, 180 to 189, 193 to 204, 211, 216, 217, 219, 222 to 225, 228, 229, 231, 232, 234, 250, 252,
253, 255 to 257, 263, 269, 272, 273, 284, 287, 290 to 292, 302, 303, 305, 306, 323 or 326
shall be liable to be dealt with under the provisions of Section W of the Leagues Rules.
Guidance
Failure to comply with any of the Rules in this section, other than those specified in Rule 27 above, will not lead to liability
to disciplinary action under Section W. However, such failure to comply may be dealt with pursuant to the terms and
conditions of the Clubs Academy licence and may lead to the revocation, suspension or downgrading of that licence, or
the withdrawal or suspension of central funding, pursuant to Rule 26.
The League considers that the Rules specified in Rule 27 are of such a nature that breach should open the possibility of
disciplinary action under Section W because they impact upon other people or entities, and in particular, Academy Players
and/or other Clubs.
329
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT RULES
shall be in breach of these Rules and shall be liable to be dealt with in accordance with the
provisions of Section W of the Leagues Rules.
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT RULES
STRATEGY, LEADERSHIP AND MANAGEMENT OF THE ACADEMY
Strategic Documents
28.
Each Club which operates an Academy shall document and make available to the League and
to the ISO its Vision Statement, Playing Philosophy and Coaching Philosophy each of which
shall be:
28.1 drawn up by the Technical Board; and
28.2 annually reviewed and approved by the Club Board.
Academy Performance Plan
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT RULES
29.
Each Club which operates an Academy shall prepare and make available to the League and
to the ISO its Academy Performance Plan.
Guidance
See also Rule 9.2 which requires the Academy Performance Plan to be submitted as part of the Clubs application to
operate (or continue to operate) an Academy with effect from 1 July 2016.
30.
The Academy Performance Plan shall be drawn up under the guidance of the Academy
Manager in consultation with such Officials as the Club may consider appropriate (including,
by way of example only, the Manager, the Chief Executive, the Academy Management Team
and the Technical Director if the Club has appointed one and the Technical Board) and shall
be reviewed annually by the Academy Manager.
31.
The Club Board shall:
31.1 annually review and approve the Academy Performance Plan;
31.2 ensure that the Academy Performance Plan is communicated to all relevant Officials;
and
31.3 measure the performance of the Academy each year against the objectives, strategy
and specific performance targets set out in the Academy Performance Plan and
ensure that appropriate action is taken if the performance targets have not been met.
Performance Management Application
32.
Each Club which operates an Academy shall:
32.1. utilise the Performance Management Application from the date of its implementation
by the League and record on it the data listed in Rule 1.58;
32.2. ensure that the data held on the Performance Management Application which is
within the Clubs control is held securely and is only released to, or accessed by, those
persons who require access to it pursuant to any of these Rules; and
32.3. provide the League with such information as it may from time to time require for the
purposes of analysing and benchmarking on a national or Category-wide basis any
aspect of the performance of Academy Players or Clubs.
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STRATEGY, LEADERSHIP AND MANAGEMENT OF THE ACADEMY
33.
Each Club which operates an Academy shall ensure that the Performance Management
Application is available for access by the following individuals:
33.1.
relevant Academy Staff; and
33.2. Parents of its Academy Players aged 17 and younger, and the Academy Players
themselves, in relation to information contained on the Performance Management
Application which relates to that Academy Player (but excluding information which
in the Clubs reasonable opinion ought not to be so disclosed).
Technical Board
Each Club which operates an Academy shall establish a Technical Board.
35.
The membership of the Technical Board shall consist of such Officials as the Club Board
deems necessary in order for the Technical Board to properly perform the functions with
which it is tasked by these Rules, and accordingly may include:
35.1. the Chief Executive;
35.2. the Manager;
35.3. the Academy Manager;
35.4. such Officials as can give input from the following functional areas:
35.4.1. recruitment;
35.4.2. coaching; and
35.4.3. Professional Development Phase coaching; and
35.5. any other Official that the Club deems appropriate.
36.
The Technical Board shall provide technical advice and support in the development of the
Clubs Playing Philosophy, Coaching Philosophy and Coach Competency Framework, and in
the development, implementation and monitoring of the Academy Performance Plan.
Guidance
The Club may wish to give consideration to tasking the Technical Board with involvement in the following functions, in
addition to those listed in the above Rule:
defining the profile/role of the Senior Professional Development Coach;
management of the transition of players into the first team squad;
defining the Clubs recruitment strategy (e.g. home-grown players v external recruitment);
playing opportunities for Academy Players at first team level; and
any other functions which the Club deems appropriate.
Each Club may wish to give consideration to employing a Technical Director. The employment of a Technical Director is
not mandatory.
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YOUTH DEVELOPMENT RULES
34.
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT RULES
EFFECTIVE MEASUREMENT
Academies: Evaluation and Audit
37.
Each Club which operates an Academy shall conduct an annual self-assessment of its
Academy which shall:
37.1. be led by its Academy Manager;
37.2. assess the extent to which the Club meets and/or exceeds the criteria pertaining to the
relevant Category of Academy set out in this section of the Rules and in the Audit Tool;
37.3. utilise the Audit Tool; and
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT RULES
37.4. be made available to the League, the ISO and, if required, the PGB.
38.
The League shall conduct:
38.1. on-going monitoring of each Academy; and
38.2. an annual evaluation of each Academy which shall:
38.2.1. consider the Clubs annual self-assessment referred to in Rule 37 and its most
recent Academy Financial Information;
38.2.2. assess the extent to which the Club meets and/or exceeds the criteria
pertaining to the relevant Category of Academy set out in this section of the
Rules and in the Audit Tool;
38.2.3. utilise the Audit Tool; and
38.2.4. be made available to the Club, the ISO and, if required, the PGB.
39.
A Club shall be entitled to publish the results of its ISO Audit and the Category of its
Academy.
Productivity Profile
40.
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Each year the League will provide each Club which operates an Academy with an up to date
Productivity Profile, benchmarked (on an anonymised basis) against other Clubs (and, if
appropriate, Football League clubs).
EFFECTIVE MEASUREMENT
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT RULES
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YOUTH DEVELOPMENT RULES
PERFORMANCE MANAGEMENT, PLAYER DEVELOPMENT AND PROGRESSION
Performance Clock
41.
Each Club which operates an Academy shall maintain a Performance Clock for each of its
Academy Players and ensure that it is made available to:
41.1. the Academy Player;
41.2. his Parent (and without prejudice to the generality of the foregoing the Club shall
provide to the Academy Player and his Parent a copy of his Performance Clock if he
ceases to be registered with the Club);
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41.3. the League; and
41.4. the ISO.
Guidance
1. The Performance Clock records the players progress throughout his development. The Performance Clock is an
embedded application in the Performance Management Application. Information is carried forward year on year (and
from club to club) to build into a comprehensive record of the players development. The Performance Clock should
provide a breakdown of the time spent in individual and team technical and practical development, matches played,
sports science and medicine (including psychological and social development) and educational progression. The
Performance Clock logs qualitative information and evidence documented by both coach and player relating to a
players successful progression in the above areas. The Performance Clock also evidences the Academy Players Multidisciplinary Reviews.
2. I t should be noted that while there is scope within the Performance Clock for the Academy Player to give feedback and
comments, the primary responsibility to maintain Performance Clocks lies with the Club. Any Club which fails to
maintain its Academy Players Performance Clocks, and make them available in accordance with Rule 41, may
jeopardise its categorisation.
Individual Learning Plans and Multi-disciplinary Reviews
42.
Each Club which operates an Academy shall ensure that it undertakes a Multi-disciplinary
Review in respect of each Academy Player:
42.1 every 12 weeks (if he is in one of the Under 9 to Under 11 age groups);
42.2 every 6 weeks (if he is in one of the Under 12 to Under 18 age groups); and
42.3 with such frequency as is necessary according to his developmental needs (if he is one
of the Under 19 to Under 21 age groups).
Guidance
Neither the Academy Player nor his parent need be present at the Multi-disciplinary Review. See however the Clubs
obligations under Rules 44, 45 and 47 to 49.
43.
334
Each Multi-disciplinary Review shall assess the performance and development of the Academy
Player against his performance targets set at previous Multi-disciplinary Reviews. At the end of
each Multi-disciplinary Review the Club shall update the Academy Players Individual Learning
Plan to take account of conclusions reached at the Multi-disciplinary Review.
PERFORMANCE MANAGEMENT, PLAYER DEVELOPMENT AND PROGRESSION
44.
Each Club which operates an Academy shall ensure that it conducts a meeting with each of
its Academy Players:
44.1. at least every 12 weeks (if he is in one of the Under 9 to Under 11 age groups);
44.2. at least every 6 weeks (if he is in one of the Under 12 to Under 18 age groups); and
44.3. with such frequency as is necessary according to his development needs (if he is one
of the Under 19 to Under 21 age groups).
45.
At the meetings referred to in Rule 44, the Club shall:
45.1. discuss with the Academy Player his Individual Learning Plan; and
46.
Each Multi-disciplinary Review shall be recorded on the Academy Players Performance Clock.
47.
Each Club which operates an Academy shall meet with the Parent of each Academy Player
under the age of 18 at least twice a year and provide to and discuss with the Parent a
detailed review of all aspects of the Academy Players performance and development
based on his most recent Multi-disciplinary Reviews.
48.
A written record of the discussion referred to in Rule 47 shall be given to the Parent and
noted on the Academy Players Performance Clock.
49.
Each Club which operates an Academy shall, between 1 May and 30 June in each year, provide
to the Parent of each Academy Player under the age of 18 an annual written report on all
aspects of the Academy Players performance and development over the preceding Season.
50.
Each Club shall permit a representative of the League to attend Multi-disciplinary Reviews if
so requested by the League.
Guidance
It is recommended that one of the meetings referred to in Rule 47 is held at around the mid-season point and the other at
the end of the season. The annual written report referred to in Rule 49 should form the basis of the end of season meeting.
Regular reviews of all aspects of an Academy Players development are a key part of the Elite Player Performance Plan.
Each periodic Multi-disciplinary Review will have input from each discipline within the Academy (coaching, education and
welfare, and sports science and medicine).
The following best practice recommendations are made, which supplement the above minimum requirements.
1. Multi-disciplinary Reviews should not only measure the Academy Players progression against his own performance
targets, but also benchmark his development against that of his peers.
2. The procedure for undertaking Multi-disciplinary Reviews with Academy Players should follow a standard protocol. The
meeting should involve the head coach for the Academy Players Development Phase and the Head of Education
(particularly if the Club is providing education to the Academy Player), plus any other relevant Academy Staff (e.g. sports
scientists) as required.
3. Similar protocols may be adopted for the meetings with Parents. Thus, it is recommended that the meeting is attended
by the head coach for the Academy Players Development Phase, the Head of Education and any other relevant Academy
Staff.
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YOUTH DEVELOPMENT RULES
45.2. take all appropriate action (for example by way of amending his Individual Learning
Plan to set mutually agreed performance targets and/or such individual coaching,
athletic development or educational support as may be necessary).
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STAFF
General
51.
Each Club which operates an Academy shall establish a staffing structure for its Academy
which shall:
51.1 subject to Rule 52 include the mandatory posts required by this section of the Rules
for the Category applicable to its Academy; and
51.2 have regard to the guidelines and best practice set out in the Elite Player Performance
Plan.
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT RULES
52.
Save for the Academy Manager and the coaches described in Rules 70 and 71, a Club need
not employ those Academy Staff whose employment is mandatory for the Category of its
Academy pursuant to these Rules provided that the Club is able to demonstrate to the
reasonable satisfaction of the League, the ISO or the PGB (whichever body is appropriate),
that its staffing structure includes the same expertise and achieves the same results as if all
the mandatory posts required by this section of the Rules were filled.
Guidance
The functions covered by the mandatory posts must be delivered by all Clubs operating an Academy. However, the
League acknowledges that Clubs should have flexibility in the organisation of their staffing structure provided that the
structure that is adopted delivers the same outputs and results as if the mandatory posts were filled.
The exceptions to this are the post of Academy Manager and the coaches set out in Rules 70 and 71: a Club must employ
a Full Time Academy Manager in accordance with Rules 59 to 65 and coaches in accordance with Rules 70 and 71.
53.
The Club shall document its staffing structure in an organisational chart which shall:
53.1 show the reporting lines of each member of Academy Staff; and
53.2 be made available to Academy Staff, the League and the ISO.
54.
The relationship between a Club and each member of its Academy Staff shall be appropriately
documented by way of:
54.1. an employment contract; or
54.2. a statement of terms of employment pursuant to Section 1 of the Employment Rights
Act 1996; or
54.3. in the case of a non-employee, a contract for services.
55.
Each member of Academy Staff shall be given:
55.1. a written job description (which may be contained in the document referred to in Rule
54); and
55.2. an annual performance appraisal.
56.
Each Club which operates an Academy shall:
56.1. provide Continued Professional Development to members of Academy Staff where
required to do so pursuant to these Rules; and
56.2. take all reasonable steps to ensure that each member of Academy Staff who is
required by these Rules to undertake Continued Professional Development does so.
Guidance
It is envisaged that CPD will be delivered partly by Clubs and partly externally (e.g. by the Football Association).
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STAFF
Academy Management Team
57.
Each Club which operates an Academy shall establish an Academy Management Team
which shall:
57.1 be led by the Academy Manager;
57.2 in addition to the Academy Manager consist of such other Officials as the Club Board
deems necessary in order for the Academy Management Team to properly perform
the functions with which it is tasked by these Rules and otherwise, and which may
accordingly include the Head of Education, the Head of Sports Science and Medicine,
the Head of Recruitment, the Head of Academy Coaching and the Academy Secretary.
The Academy Management Team shall assist the Academy Manager in running the
operations of the Academy in accordance with the Clubs Academy Performance Plan.
Guidance
This Section of the Rules should be read subject to Rule 52. If a Club does not employ one of the Officials described in Rule
57.2, Clubs should consider including representation from the relevant functional area on the Academy Management
Team.
Academy Manager
59.
Each Club which operates an Academy shall employ a Full Time Academy Manager.
60.
The Academy Managers appointment shall be approved by the Club Board.
61.
The Academy Manager shall report to the Chief Executive or to such other senior
administrative Official of the Club as the Club Board shall approve.
62.
The responsibilities of the Academy Manager shall include (unless otherwise approved by the
Board):
62.1 guiding the development of the Clubs Playing Philosophy, Coaching Philosophy and
Coaching Curriculum;
62.2 drawing up the Academy Performance Plan as set out in, and subject to the provisions
of, Rule 30;
62.3 implementing the Academy Performance Plan;
62.4 advising the Club Board on:
62.4.1 whether the Academy has met the performance targets set out in the
Academy Performance Plan; and
62.4.2 the action to be taken by the Club if the Academy has not met those
performance targets;
62.5 ensuring the effective use by all appropriate Academy Staff of the Performance
Management Application, Performance Clocks, and the Audit Tool, including ensuring
that all relevant data is recorded thereon;
62.6 the design, implementation and management of the Academys Coaching Curriculum;
62.7 conducting an annual self-assessment of the Academy in accordance with the
provisions of Rule 37;
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YOUTH DEVELOPMENT RULES
58.
STAFF
62.8 providing all necessary assistance to the League in connection with its on-going
monitoring and annual evaluations of the Academy and to the ISO in connection with
the ISO Audits;
62.9 ensuring that all Academy Staff undertake the Continued Professional Development
required of them by this section of the Rules;
62.10 being the line manager of the Head of Education, Head of Coaching, and Head of
Recruitment; and
62.11 liaising with the Clubs Manager as appropriate.
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT RULES
Guidance
It is acknowledged that some Academy Managers may also have important roles as coaches and that the above
responsibilities may limit the time they have for coaching. As a consequence, the Academy Manager will be entitled to
delegate some of his functions to other staff at the Academy to enable him to continue to undertake coaching. In
particular, if the Academy Manager also has coaching responsibilities, Clubs may wish to give consideration to appointing
an Operations Manager, being a senior administrator who will have day-to-day responsibility for many of the executive
and operational issues of the Academy. However, it should be borne in mind that the Academy Manager will remain
ultimately responsible for all of the above matters regardless of any delegation.
63.
Subject to Rule 64, each Academy Manager must hold:
63.1 an up to date UEFA A Licence; and
63.2 an FA Youth Award; and
63.3 an FA Advanced Youth Award.
Guidance
An Academy Managers development programme will be developed in conjunction with Clubs and will be introduced in
Season 2015/16.
Rule 63.3 will be complied with regardless of which of the age-specific specialist element of the Award the Academy
Manager holds, so long as he holds one.
64.
A Club may appoint as Academy Manager a person who does not hold the qualifications set
out in Rule 63 provided that the Head of Academy Coaching:
64.1. holds these qualifications;
64.2. is tasked with overseeing the Coaching Curriculum; and
64.3. is a member of the Academy Management Team and sits on the Technical Board.
Guidance
Consideration is being given to a specific course/qualification for Academy Managers who do not hold the required
coaching qualifications. This may become mandatory for such Academy Managers. Further guidance will be given to
Clubs in due course.
65.
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The Academy Manager must undertake Continued Professional Development organised by
the Club. In addition, where the Academy Manager holds a qualification set out in Rule 63,
he must attend such training provided by the FA as is necessary to maintain the validity of
that qualification and at least 5 hours of in-service training to be provided by the League
every year and hold a current Basic First Aid for Sport Qualification or an equivalent or higher
qualification approved by the Board.
STAFF
Guidance
The Board will deem the current first aid qualification held by an Academy Manager to be an equivalent to BFAS until such
time as the Academy Manager acquires the BFAS qualification. However, all Academy Managers must hold the BFAS
qualification by the conclusion of Season 2015/16.
Academy Secretary
Each Club which operates an Academy shall appoint an Academy Secretary who shall be
employed Full Time (in the case of a Club which operates a Category 1 or Category 2
Academy), and at least Part Time (in the case of a Club which operates a Category 3 or
Category 4 Academy).
67.
The Academy Secretary shall:
67.1. provide administrative support to the Academy Manager and the Academy
Management Team;
67.2. act as the point of contact between the Academy and the League for all administrative
matters, including the submission of required information; and
67.3. be familiar with all relevant provisions of these Youth Development Rules, as
amended from time to time.
Guidance
This section of the Rules should be read subject to Rule 52.
Head of Academy Coaching
68.
Each Club which operates an Academy shall employ a Head of Academy Coaching who shall:
68.1. report to the Academy Manager;
68.2. subject to Rule 62.6, have responsibility for delivery of the Academys Coaching
Curriculum;
68.3. be responsible for designing and delivering the Clubs Continued Professional
Development Programme, which shall reflect the Clubs Playing Philosophy and
Coaching Philosophy and each coachs Coach Competency Framework for all the
Clubs Academy coaches; and
68.4. discharge the responsibilities with regard to Development Action Plans set out at
Rules 84 to 86;
68.5. hold at least an up to date UEFA A Licence, an FA Youth Award, and an FA Advanced
Youth Award;
68.6. hold a current Basic First Aid for Sport Qualification or an equivalent or higher
qualification approved by the Board;
68.7. have recent and relevant experience of coaching Academy Players in an Academy (or
of a comparable environment);
68.8. be employed Full Time (in the case of a Head of Academy Coaching employed in a
Category 1 or Category 2 Academy) or at least Part Time (in the case of a Category 3
or Category 4 Academy);
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YOUTH DEVELOPMENT RULES
66.
STAFF
68.9. attend at least five hours of in-service training to be provided by the League each year;
and
68.10. attend such training to be provided by the FA as is necessary to maintain the validity
of the qualifications set out in Rule 68.5; and
68.11. in conjunction with each of the Clubs coaches, plan, deliver and monitor the delivery
of individual development plans for each such coach.
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT RULES
Guidance
As noted above, it is envisaged that it will take until 2015 for delivery of the BFAS qualification to all Academy Staff.
Accordingly, the Board will deem the current first aid qualification held by a Head of Academy Coaching to be an
equivalent to BFAS until such time as the Head of Academy Coaching acquires the BFAS qualification. However, all Heads
of Academy Coaching must hold the BFAS qualification by the conclusion of Season 2015/16.
69.
In addition to the in-service training referred to in Rule 68.9 the Head of Academy Coaching
must undertake Continued Professional Development organised by the Club.
Guidance
It is recommended (and mandatory in the circumstances set out in Rule 64) that the Head of Academy Coaching will be
a senior appointment in the Academy and a member of the Academy Management Team and sit on the Technical Board.
This section of the Rules should be read subject to Rule 52.
Coaches
70.
Each Club which operates an Academy shall employ as a minimum the number of Full Time
coaches for each Development Phase in accordance with the Category of its Academy as set
out in the following table:
Foundation Phase
Youth Development
Phase
Professional
Development Phase
Category 1
Category 2
Category 3
Category 4
N/A
N/A
Guidance
For those Clubs which operate a Category 3 or Category 4 Academy, the Academy Manager and Head of Academy
Coaching may count towards the minimum numbers required under Rule 70. Further consideration will be given to this
in due course as it is however best practice that they are not included in the count of coaches under Rule 70.
71.
In addition to the coaches set out in Rule 70 each Club shall employ sufficient additional
coaching staff (Full Time or Part Time) to ensure that the coach to Academy Players ratios
set out in Rule 119 are maintained.
72.
Each Club shall appoint one Full Time coach in each Development Phase who shall be the
lead coach for that phase and be responsible for managing the delivery of coaching within it,
and who shall hold at least an up to date UEFA A Licence.
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STAFF
Goalkeeping Coaches
73.
Each Club which operates an Academy shall employ, either on a Full Time or Part Time basis,
such goalkeeping coaches as are necessary to ensure that each Academy Player who is a
goalkeeper receives the required hours of coaching set out in Rule 116.
74.
Each goalkeeping coach must:
74.1 attend at least five hours of in-service training to be provided by the Football
Association each year;
74.2 attend the first aid training for Academy coaches provided by the Football Association
at least once every three years; and
75.
Each goalkeeping coach must hold an up to date UEFA B Licence and an FA Goalkeeping
Coaching B Licence.
Guidance
Goalkeeping coaches working with the Foundation Phase as at 7 June 2013 shall have a period of 18 months to gain the
UEFA B Licence provided they hold a Goalkeeping Level 2 qualification.
This section of the Rules should be read subject to Rule 52.
Senior Professional Development Coach
76.
Each Club which operates a Category 1 or Category 2 Academy shall (and a Club which
operates a Category 3 or Category 4 Academy may) appoint a Senior Professional
Development Coach who shall:
76.1. report to the Academy Manager;
76.2 liaise with the Manager;
76.3 hold a UEFA A Licence and the FA Advanced Youth Award with the age specific
specialist element relevant to the Professional Development Phase;
76.4 oversee on a day-to-day basis the Coaching Curriculum for the Under 19 to Under 21
age groups;
76.5 manage the transition of Academy Players to the Clubs senior squad in accordance
with the Clubs procedure for the same described in Rule 78;
76.6 contribute to the Multi-disciplinary Reviews of all Academy Players in the Professional
Development Phase; and
76.7 manage the Clubs team which competes in the Professional Development League.
77.
Each Club which operates a Category 3 or Category 4 Academy that does not appoint a
Senior Professional Development Coach in accordance with Rule 76 shall assign a member of
the coaching staff responsible for the coaching of the Clubs professional players to act as a
liaison coach who shall:
77.1. liaise with the Academy Manager;
77.2. liaise with the Manager; and
77.3. manage the transition of Academy Players to the Clubs senior squad in accordance
with the Clubs procedure for the same described in Rule 78.
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YOUTH DEVELOPMENT RULES
74.3 undertake Continued Professional Development organised by the Club.
STAFF
78.
Each Club shall develop, implement and provide evidence of a procedure to enable the
transition of Academy Players to its senior squad.
Guidance
This section of the Rules should be read subject to Rule 52.
Coaches: Qualifications and Professional Development
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT RULES
79.
Subject to Rule 80, each coach (excluding goalkeeping coaches to whom Rule 74 applies)
must from the commencement of and throughout their employment hold:
79.1 an up to date UEFA B Licence (save where these Rules require a coach to hold an up to
date UEFA A Licence); and
79.2 an FA Youth Award; and
79.3 an up to date FA Advanced Youth Award with the age-specific specialist element
relevant to the Development Phase which he coaches.
80.
A coach employed by a Club prior to 1 July 2015 who does not hold a qualification required
by Rule 79 shall acquire it by 30 July 2017.
Guidance
These Rules require the following Academy Staff to hold an up to date UEFA A Licence:
Head of Academy Coaching (Rule 68.5);
Senior Professional Development Coach (Rule 76.3).
81.
Each coach (including goalkeeping coaches) must attend at least five hours of in-service
training to be provided by the Football Association or League each year and hold a current
Basic First Aid for Sport Qualification or an equivalent or higher qualification approved by
the Board.
Guidance
The Board will deem the current first aid qualification held by a coach to be an equivalent to BFAS until such time as the coach
acquires the BFAS qualification. However, all coaches must hold the BFAS qualification by the conclusion of Season 2015/16.
82.
In addition to the in-service training referred to in Rule 81, each coach must undertake
Continued Professional Development organised by the Club.
Guidance
The Leagues and the FA will establish and maintain a national database of qualifications of coaches, and the in-service
training they have undertaken.
83.
Each Club which operates an Academy shall prepare a Coach Competency Framework,
which must be approved by its Technical Board.
84.
Each Club shall ensure that the Head of Academy Coaching provides to each of its Academy
coaches (including goalkeeping coaches and the Senior Professional Development Coach) a
Development Action Plan, that is to say the Head of Academy Coaching shall undertake an
assessment of the competencies of each Academy coach and discuss this with him, and
agree with him the competencies and behaviours which he needs to develop, and the
activities which he will undertake in order to develop them, and the timeframe within which
he will undertake them, and record the same in writing and give a copy to the coach.
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STAFF
85.
The Club must record evidence that the actions referred to in the Development Action Plan
have been undertaken, and review those actions within an appropriate period with the
coach, and amend the Development Action Plan if necessary.
86.
The Club shall ensure that the Head of Academy Coaching reviews, and if necessary amends,
each coachs Development Action Plan with such frequency as is necessary.
Head of Academy Sports Science and Medicine
Each Club which operates a Category 1 and Category 2 Academy shall appoint a Full Time
Head of Academy Sports Science and Medicine who shall report to either the Academy
Manager or the Official who is responsible for Sports Science and Medicine for the entire
Club (and whichever he reports to, he shall liaise closely with the other).
88.
Each Club which operates a Category 3 or Category 4 Academy shall demonstrate to the
reasonable satisfaction of the League, the ISO or PGB (whichever body is appropriate) that
its Sports Science and Medicine Programme for Academy Players is appropriately managed
and delivered.
Guidance
A Club which operates a Category 3 or Category 4 Academy may choose to buy in support for this function on a part time
basis.
89.
The Head of Academy Sports Science and Medicine shall be responsible for managing and
delivering the Sports Science and Medicine Programme for all Academy Players registered
with the Club.
90.
The Head of Academy Sports Science and Medicine:
90.1 shall be either:
90.1.1 a registered physiotherapist member of the Health and Care Professions
Council; or
90.1.2 a registered medical practitioner licensed to practise by the General Medical
Council with a diploma in Sport and Exercise Medicine or equivalent or higher
qualification; or
90.1.3 the holder of at least a masters degree in sports science (or other relevant
discipline) from a recognised university and have or be working towards
British Association of Sport and Exercise Sciences accreditation; and
90.2 shall have recent and relevant professional experience in a sports performance
environment.
Guidance
Under 90.1.2, where the Academy Doctor is not head of department the further qualification is still necessary if the
doctor is providing independent unsupervised management in the area of Sport and Exercise Medicine.
Under 90.1.3, it is anticipated that British Association of Sport and Exercise Sciences accreditation will be a requirement
for this post in 2016/17.
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YOUTH DEVELOPMENT RULES
87.
STAFF
91.
With effect from the start of Season 2014/15, the Head of Academy Sports Science Medicine
shall hold either:
91.1. if he is a registered physiotherapist member of the Health and Care Professions
Council or a registered medical practitioner, a current Football Association Advanced
Resuscitation and Emergency Aid certificate or an equivalent or higher qualification
approved by the Board; or
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT RULES
91.2. if he is neither of the above, a current Intermediate First Aid for Sport Qualification or
an equivalent or higher qualification approved by the Board.
92.
For the avoidance of doubt, if the Head of Academy Sports Science and Medicine is not a
registered physiotherapist member of the Health and Care Professions Council or a registered
medical practitioner (as set out in Rule 91.1 and 91.2 respectively) then the primacy of
decisions regarding the clinical treatment of Academy Players shall rest with a physiotherapist
or registered medical practitioner.
93.
The Head of Academy Sports Science and Medicine must undertake Continued Professional
Development organised by the Club or the League.
Guidance
It is envisaged that the person who is appointed to this role shall have had recent relevant experience (which will be
assessed by the League and/or the ISO), including managerial experience in a sports science environment.
This section of the Rules should be read subject to Rule 52.
Lead Sports Scientist
94.
Each Club which operates a Category 1 or Category 2 Academy shall appoint a Full Time Lead
Sports Scientist who shall:
94.1. hold at least a bachelors degree in sports science (or another relevant discipline) from
a recognised university;
94.2. have recent and relevant professional experience in a sports performance
environment;
94.3. co-ordinate and lead the sports science services for the Academy; and
94.4. hold a current Basic First Aid for Sport Qualification or an equivalent or higher
qualification approved by the Board.
95.
Each Club which operates a Category 3 or Category 4 Academy shall demonstrate to the
reasonable satisfaction of the League, the ISO or the PGB (whichever body is appropriate)
that it delivers sufficient and appropriate sports science services to its Academy Players.
96.
The Lead Sports Scientist must undertake Continued Professional Development organised
by the Club.
Guidance
For Clubs obligations generally regarding the provision of sports science and medicine, see Rules 213 to 223.
It is envisaged that the person appointed to this role will have recent, relevant experience (which will be assessed by the
League and/or the ISO). A Club which operates a Category 3 or Category 4 Academy may choose to buy in support for
this function on a part time basis.
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STAFF
The Board will deem the current first aid qualification held by a Lead Sports Scientist to be an equivalent to BFAS until
such time as the Lead Sports Scientist acquires the BFAS qualification. However, all Lead Sports Scientists must hold the
BFAS qualification by the conclusion of Season 2015/16.
This section of the Rules should be read subject to Rule 52.
Lead Strength and Conditioning Coach
97.
Each Club which operates a Category 1 or 2 Academy shall employ a Lead Strength and
Conditioning Coach who shall:
97.1. in the case of a Category 1 Academy, be employed Full Time, and in the case of a
Category 2 Academy, be employed at least Part Time;
97.3. hold at least a bachelors degree in sports science (or another relevant discipline) from
a recognised university and have or be working towards British Association of Sport
and Exercise Sciences accreditation;
97.4. hold a current Basic First Aid for Sport Qualification or an equivalent or higher
qualification approved by the Board;
97.5. have attended the following workshops run by the UK Strength and Conditioning
Association (or equivalent workshops run by any equivalent body):
97.5.1. Foundation Workshop and Certification (Level 1);
97.5.2. Weightlifting Workshop;
97.5.3. Plyometric, Agility and Speed Workshop;
97.5.4. Planning Effective Programmes Workshop; and
97.5.5. report to the Lead Sports Scientist.
Guidance
The Board will deem the current first aid qualification held by a Lead Strength and Conditioning Coach to be an equivalent
to BFAS until such time as the Lead Strength and Conditioning Coach acquires the BFAS qualification. However, all Lead
Strength and Conditioning Coaches must hold the BFAS qualification by the conclusion of Season 2015/16.
98.
The Lead Strength and Conditioning Coach must undertake Continued Professional
Development organised by the Club.
Guidance
It is recommended that Category 2 Academies employ the Lead Strength and Conditioning Coach on a Full Time basis,
but the League acknowledges that this may not always be possible, therefore, the minimum role is stated to be Part Time.
This section of the Rules should be read subject to Rule 52.
Senior Academy Physiotherapist
99.
Each Club which operates an Academy shall appoint a Senior Academy Physiotherapist who shall:
99.1. be Full Time in the case of a Category 1, Category 2 or Category 3 Academy and at
least Part Time in the case of a Category 4 Academy;
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YOUTH DEVELOPMENT RULES
97.2. be responsible for providing to the Clubs Academy Players appropriate strength and
conditioning training and monitoring as part of the Sports Science and Medicine
Programme;
STAFF
99.2. be a registered physiotherapist member of the Health and Care Professions Council
(save that a Club which operates a Category 3 or 4 Academy may continue to employ
as its Senior Academy Physiotherapist any Person so employed at the time of these
Rules coming into force who does not hold the qualifications specified in this Rule
provided that he has successfully completed the Football Associations Diploma in the
Treatment and Management of Injuries course or an equivalent or higher qualification.
Any person appointed thereafter must hold the qualifications specified by this Rule);
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT RULES
99.3. have recent and relevant professional experience in a sports performance
environment;
99.4. with effect from the start of Season 2014/15 if employed by a Club which operates a
Category 1 or Category 2 Academy hold a current Football Association Advanced
Resuscitation and Emergency Aid certificate or if employed by a Club which operates a
Category 3 or Category 4 Academy hold a current Intermediate First Aid for Sport
Qualification (or in either case an equivalent or higher qualification approved by the Board);
99.5. co-ordinate and lead the physiotherapy service within the Academy;
99.6. ensure that Rules 222.1 and 223 are complied with; and
99.7. undertake Continued Professional Development organised by the Club.
Guidance
This section of the Rules should be read subject to Rule 52.
Physiotherapists and Sports Therapists
100.
In addition to the Senior Academy Physiotherapist referred to at Rule 99, each Club which
operates a Category 1 or Category 2 Academy shall employ at least one Full Time
physiotherapist who shall be a registered physiotherapist member of the Health and Care
Professions Council.
101.
Any Sports Therapist employed by a Club must be subject to the management and
supervision of a registered physiotherapist member of the Health and Care Professions
Council.
102.
Each physiotherapist and Sports Therapist employed pursuant to Rules 100 and 101 must
undertake Continued Professional Development organised by the Club and with effect from
the start of Season 2014/15 each such physiotherapist shall hold a current Intermediate First
Aid for Sport Qualification or an equivalent or higher qualification approved by the Board.
Guidance
All Sports Therapists must have a doctor or paramedic registered with the Health and Care Professions Council working
alongside them on match day in the Professional Development Phase. At Category 3 and Category 4 the foregoing shall
apply unless a Sports Therapist holds a current Intermediate First Aid for Sport Qualification. For younger age groups,
Rule 223 applies.
Sports Therapists are not currently eligible to be registered with the Health and Care Professions Council. It is likely that
this may change in the year or two and that if and when it does, an amendment to the Rules will be proposed to require
all Sports Therapists working within Clubs to be so registered.
This section of the Rules should be read subject to Rule 52.
346
STAFF
Academy Doctor
103.
Each Club which operates an Academy shall appoint an Academy Doctor who shall:
103.1. be a registered medical practitioner licensed to practise by the General Medical
Council;
103.2. be available to assess and, if appropriate, undertake the treatment of any playing
injuries suffered by an Academy Player;
103.3. undertake Continued Professional Development;
103.4. be available for consultation at the Academy on at least one occasion per week (in
addition to any attendance at matches); and
Guidance
1. Whether the Academy Doctor should be Full Time or Part Time has not been specified, it being recognised that the
role may be fulfilled by a doctor who also has responsibilities for the professional squad, or who has other professional
responsibilities outside the Club.
2. See also Rules 222 and 223 concerning the medical cover at coaching and matches.
3. The Premier League will gather and share best practice in relation to Emergency Action Plans.
4. This section of the Rules should be read subject to Rule 52.
Performance Analysts
104.
Each Club which operates a Category 1 Academy shall employ a minimum of two Full Time
Performance Analysts.
105.
Each Club which operates a Category 2 Academy shall employ a minimum of two
Performance Analysts, one on a Full Time basis, and the other at least Part Time.
Guidance
For Category 2 Academies, the Performance Analysts could be, for example, a student undertaking a Masters degree in
a sports science related field who is on a placement as part of their Masters course.
106.
The Performance Analysts shall undertake Performance Analysis of Academy Players
registered with the Club.
107.
The Performance Analysts must undertake Continued Professional Development organised
by the Club.
Guidance
This section of the Rules should be read subject to Rule 52.
Head of Education
108.
Each Club which operates an Academy shall appoint a Head of Education who shall:
108.1. report to the Academy Manager;
108.2. have responsibility for:
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YOUTH DEVELOPMENT RULES
103.5. be responsible for the preparation of each Clubs Emergency Action Plan.
STAFF
108.2.1. the organisation, management and delivery of the Clubs Education
Programme;
108.2.2. the educational progression of all Academy Players registered with the
Club (subject to the duties of any educational establishment at which an
Academy Players education is taking place);
108.2.3. ensuring that the education of an Academy Player engaged on the Hybrid
or Full Time Training Model is not prejudiced as a result of his being so
engaged; and
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT RULES
108.2.4. ensuring all documents and records relating to the education of Academy
Players required by these Rules are in place and up-to-date.
108.3 undertake benchmarking of the educational progression of each year group of
Academy Players engaged on the Hybrid and Full Time Training Models against
national data, and make the result of that benchmarking available to the League;
108.4 ensure that the Academys educational provision reflects the strategy and
performance targets set out in the Clubs Academy Performance Plan;
108.5 hold Qualified Teacher Status and have relevant experience (in the case of Category
1 and 2 Academies) or, as a minimum, possess a teaching qualification or further
education teaching qualification (in the case of Category 3 and Category 4
Academies);
108.6 be Full Time (in the case of Category 1 and Category 2 Academies); and
108.7 undertake Continued Professional Development organised by the Club.
Guidance
See also:
1. Rule 209 which requires each Club to nominate a member of Academy Staff to be responsible for the management
and delivery of the Clubs programme to educate Academy Players in Lifestyle Management Skills. It is recommended
(although not mandatory) that the Head of Education and Welfare is tasked with this.
2. Rule 211 pursuant to which the Head of Education and Welfare or other appropriate Official must manage the Clubs
exit/release strategy.
This section of the Rules should be read subject to Rule 52.
Head of Recruitment
109.
Each Club which operates an Academy shall employ a Head of Recruitment who shall:
109.1. report to the Academy Manager;
109.2. have responsibility for the organisation, management and delivery of the Clubs
policies and procedures for the recruitment of Academy Players;
109.3. have responsibility for the recruitment and training of the Clubs Scouts (including
taking all reasonable steps to ensure that they comply with the requirements
regarding qualifications, registration and Continued Professional Development set
out at Rules 224 to 231);
109.4. be in possession of such qualification as the League may require from time to time;
109.5. undertake at least 5 hours of in-service training each year;
109.6. undertake Continued Professional Development organised by the Club; and
348
STAFF
109.7. be Full Time in the case of Category 1 and Category 2 Academies, and at least Part
Time in the case of Category 3 and 4 Academies.
Guidance
Interns
110.
The Head of Academy Sports Science and Medicine must ensure that the Club records and,
if requested, makes available to the League, the following details of every intern working
within the Academy:
110.1. name, date of birth and contact details (phone number, address and email address);
110.2. qualifications (both academic and sporting such as coaching qualifications);
110.3. details of the interns current course, including the institution at which he is enrolled,
the name of the course, and the name and contact details of his tutor; and
110.4. the contact details of a member of Academy Staff who is responsible for supervising
the intern whilst he is at the Academy.
Guidance
Clubs attention is also drawn to Section S of these Rules: Safeguarding. Clubs must ensure that these Rules are complied
with in respect of any intern to whom they are applicable. Clubs must also ensure that they comply with all applicable
legislation, including that concerning the national minimum wage.
349
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT RULES
1. Ideally a Clubs strategy for talent identification and recruitment should flow from its Vision Statement and Playing
Philosophy and be fully integrated into its Academy Performance Plan and the multi-disciplinary approach to youth
development envisaged by the Elite Player Performance Plan. Clubs may wish to document a recruitment strategy
which sets out:
the profile of the players it seeks to recruit in each age group, having regard to the desired technical, tactical,
maturation, social and psychological characteristics required at each age;
its target groups (e.g. local v national recruitment, players attending Development Centres or local schools/boys
clubs etc);
synchronisation between coaches and recruiters to ensure that, for example, assessment procedures match those
by which the Academys existing Academy Players are assessed, and that new recruits transit easily into the
Academy environment;
a strategy for late developers (including the Academys own Academy Players whose maturation rates are slow
but who eventually catch up with their peers); and
ensuring accurate scouting records are maintained.
Clubs may then wish to develop an activity plan to implement the recruitment strategy.
2 With regard to Rule 109.4 above, it is envisaged that a new qualification for scouts will be developed in due course.
3. This section of the Rules should be read subject to Rule 52
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT RULES
COACHING
Coaching Curriculum
111.
Each Club which operates an Academy shall prepare (and make available to the League and
to the ISO on request) a Coaching Curriculum which shall have regard to:
111.1.
the Clubs Vision Statement, Coaching Philosophy and Playing Philosophy;
111.2. the Clubs Academy Performance Plan;
111.3. sections 6.6 6.8 of the Elite Player Performance Plan (save as regards the reference
to minimum hours of coaching, as to which see Rule 116); and
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT RULES
111.4. these Rules.
112.
The Clubs Coaching Curriculum shall be drawn up by the Academy Manager (or, in the
circumstances set out in Rule 64, the Head of Academy Coaching) who shall consult with all
appropriate Club Officials (which may include the Manager, the Chief Executive, coaching staff,
the Academy Management Team and the Technical Director if the Club has appointed one).
113.
The Clubs Technical Board shall approve the Clubs Coaching Curriculum.
Guidance
Reference is made in the Rule to sections 6.6 to 6.8 of the Elite Player Performance Plan, which set out further detail about
the Coaching Curriculum in each Development Phase.
It is recommended that the Coaching Curriculum gives particular consideration to desired outcomes and the coaching
strategies needed to achieve them at each Development Phase.
See also Rule 62.6 (role of Academy Manager in the Coaching Curriculum) and Rule 68.2 (role of the Head of Academy
Coaching).
Coaching Hours
114.
The coaching of age groups Under 15 and older in Category 1 and Category 2 Academies shall
take place over 46 weeks of each year, such weeks to be determined by reference to the
Games Programme Schedule (including the two periods set out therein during which no
matches in the Foundation Phase and Youth Development Phase Games Programmes shall
take place).
115.
All other coaching in Academies shall take place over 40 weeks of each year.
350
COACHING
116.
Save as otherwise permitted by the PGB, the minimum hours of coaching to be delivered by
Academies each week to each Academy Player (subject to his fitness) and the permitted
Training Model per Category and per Development Phase are as follows:
Category 1
Category 3
Youth
Development
Phase
Professional
Development Phase
Coaching hours
per week
4 rising to 8
for older
Academy
Players
10 rising to
12 for older
Academy
Players
14 reducing to 12 for
Academy Players who
have commitments to
the professional squad
during the Professional
Development Phase
Permitted
Training Model
Part Time,
Hybrid
Part Time,
Hybrid, Full Time
Full Time
Coaching hours
per week
3 rising to 5 for
older Academy
Players
6 rising to 12 for
older Academy
Players
14 reducing to 12 for
Academy Players who
have commitments to
the professional squad
during the Professional
Development Phase
Permitted
Training Model
Part Time
Part Time,
Hybrid
Full Time
Coaching hours
per week
4 rising to 6 for
older Academy
Players
12
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT RULES
Category 2
Foundation
Phase
(See Guidance
below)
Category 4
Permitted
Training Model
Part Time
Part Time
Full Time
Coaching hours
per week
N/A
N/A
14 reducing to 12 for
Academy Players who
have commitments to
the professional squad
during the Professional
Development Phase
Games Programmes
Permitted
Training Model
N/A
N/A
Full Time
Guidance
1. The above hours of coaching are the minimum the Rules require per week, subject to the Academy Players fitness.
It is acknowledged, however, that Academies can alter these hours as they see fit, provided that the above stated
hours are achieved on average over each six or 12 week Multi-disciplinary Review period (as relevant). As regards
subject to fitness, this includes not only where an Academy Player is recuperating from injury, but also where in the
opinion of the coaching staff and/or the medical and sports science staff, his coaching hours need to be reduced for
him to receive adequate rest and recovery and/or avoid overuse injuries.
351
COACHING
Coaching in the above tables refers to on-the-pitch coaching (and for the avoidance of doubt excludes time in
matches). It is expected that Clubs will need to spend additional time in other environments off the pitch in order to
work with Academy Players to assist them in developing the key technical, tactical, physical and psychological and
social skills.
Where an Academy falls short of providing its Academy Players with the above hours of coaching, the Academy will
need to demonstrate that despite this, its Academy Players are being provided with a proper Coaching Curriculum.
This can be demonstrated by the progression of the Academy Player at each stage of the development process.
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT RULES
2. For Category 3 Clubs in the Youth Development Phase, the hours stated above should be applied as follows:
U12 and U13:
4 hours
U14:
5 hours
U15 and U16:
6 hours
3. A Club may be permitted to operate a Training Model in a particular Development Phase other than as set out in the
table in Rule 116. This would need to be approved in advance by the PGB (who may take advice from the Education
Advisory Group).
117.
The maximum time in which Academy Players in the Foundation Phase can be engaged in a
single coaching session is 90 minutes and there will be appropriate rest periods between
each such session.
118.
Each Club shall ensure that:
118.1. each Academy Player has access to an individual coaching plan tailored to his
specific needs;
118.2. each Academy Player is made aware of his individual coaching plan (and any changes
thereto) as soon as reasonably practicable in advance of his being coached in
accordance with it; and
118.3. all coaching is recorded on the Academy Players Performance Clock.
119.
Each Club shall ensure that a coach to Academy Players and Trialists ratio of 1:10 is maintained
for all coaching sessions (save that the ratio for Category 1 Academies using the Full Time
Training Model shall be 1:8).
120.
Each Club shall ensure that each Academy Player in age groups Under 9 and older participates
at least once a year in a Festival (or other coaching event such as a Training Camp or a
Tournament) which lasts for at least two days.
121.
Each Club shall ensure that each of its coaches plans each coaching session by setting out the
learning objectives which the session is designed to achieve and the coaching which will be
given in order to achieve them.
Development Centres
122.
Each Club which operates a Category 1, Category 2 or Category 3 Academy may operate one
or more Development Centres, to be located within one hours travelling time of the location
of its principal venue for the provision of coaching and education to Academy Players.
123.
A Child being coached at a Clubs Development Centre:
123.1. may not be registered for that Club;
123.2. may not play in matches for that Club unless registered as a Trialist; and
123.3. will be free to play for other teams.
352
COACHING
124.
Clubs which operate Development Centres shall keep an attendance record of all the
Children who participate in coaching sessions thereat.
125.
Each Development Centre operated by a Club may be inspected from time to time by the
League and by the ISO.
126.
Without prejudice to the generality of Rule 125, the inspection referred to in that Rule may
include:
126.1. inspection of the facilities provided; and
126.2 assessment of whether the coaching provided at the Development Centre is in
accordance with the Clubs coaching syllabus.
No Club shall cause or permit a Child whose registration is held by another Club (or club) or
with whom another Club (or club) has entered into a pre-registration agreement which
remains current to attend its Development Centre.
128.
No Club shall cause or permit a team representing its Development Centre to play football
against a team representing another Club (or a Football League club).
Guidance
The above Rules are based on the existing provisions concerning Development Centres. It is proposed that further
consultation is undertaken with Clubs to explore and redefine the future role of Development Centres.
353
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT RULES
127.
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT RULES
GAMES PROGRAMME
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT RULES
General
129.
Save as permitted by the Board, Clubs shall not affiliate to any other youth leagues or enter
any cup competitions except the Football Association Youth Challenge Cup.
130.
An Academy Player whose registration is held by a Club which operates an Academy shall
play football only in a Games Programme or in Authorised Games and in coaching and
training games (participation in which is limited to registered Academy Players and Trialists)
organised by and played at an Academy.
131.
A Club which operates an Academy shall not require, cause or allow an Academy Player
whose registration it holds to play football except as permitted by Rule 130.
132.
Each Club which operates an Academy shall record in each Academy Players Performance
Clock:
132.1. each match in which he has played; and
132.2. his playing time in each match.
Guidance
With regard to Rule 132.1, the matches which are to be recorded on an Academy Players Performance Clock include all
Authorised Games in which he plays.
The Performance Clock may be used to record other playing information about the Academy Player, e.g. substitutions,
cautions, position played in. It forms part of the Performance Management Application.
Performance Analysis
133.
Each Club operating a Category 1 or Category 2 Academy shall:
133.1. have such technical facilities as are necessary to undertake the Performance Analysis
required of it by Rule 133.2;
133.2. undertake Performance Analysis (including, in the case of a Club which operates a
Category 1 Academy, by undertaking GPS evaluation in the Professional
Development Phase and in the Youth Development Phase if the Full Time Training
Model is utilised) of training activity and matches in the Youth Development Phase
Games Programme, the Professional Development Phase Games Programme and
the Professional Development League;
133.3. use the results of such Performance Analysis in its monitoring of the coaching and
development of Academy Players in the Youth Development Phase and the
Professional Development Phase; and
133.4. make available to the League such Performance Analysis data as it reasonably shall
require to undertake the benchmarking of data for that Academy against national
trends.
134.
354
Each Club operating a Category 3 or Category 4 Academy shall comply with Rule 133 but
only in respect of players in the Under 17 to Under 18 age groups.
GAMES PROGRAMME
135.
Subject to a Club complying with Rule 133 or 134 (as appropriate depending on the Category
of its Academy), and to a sufficient number of Clubs (and Football League Clubs) likewise
complying, the League will make available to it benchmarked data derived from comparing
the Performance Analysis data it has submitted to the League with that submitted by other
Clubs (on an anonymised basis).
Guidance
The League will produce further detail of the proposed national programme of Performance Analysis for the older
Academy age groups. The proposals in this regard will be presented to Clubs in due course. If Clubs approve these
proposals, then (subject to Club approval) a requirement will be inserted in the Rules for Clubs to contribute information
to this national programme.
136.
The League will organise a games programme for teams in each of the Under 9 to Under 11
age groups of Clubs operating Category 1 and 2 Academies (and for the avoidance of doubt
teams from both Categories shall participate together in this games programme).
137.
The Football League will organise a games programme for teams in each of the Under 9 to
Under 11 age groups of Clubs operating Category 3 Academies.
138.
The games programmes referred to in Rules 136 and 137 shall consist of matches which:
138.1. shall be competitive but whose results (except in the case of Tournaments) shall not
give any particular competitive significance between Academies (for example, no
league table or the like shall be produced);
138.2. subject to Rule 138.3 shall be organised on a local basis so that as far as reasonably
possible no team has to travel more than one hour to an away match (save that
longer travel times may be necessary in order that each Club can participate
meaningfully in the games programme);
138.3. may be played in Festivals organised on a local, regional or national basis and each
Club which operates a Category 1 Academy shall organise and host a minimum of
three Festivals per Season;
138.4. shall take place during the Games Programme Schedule;
138.5. may include matches against representative county schoolboy sides (being sides
selected by the English Schools Football Association);
138.6. shall be played outdoors, save in respect of:
138.6.1 Clubs operating Category 1 or 2 Academies when, during the second half
of December and the whole of both January and February, they shall be
played indoors; and
138.6.2 Clubs operating Category 3 Academies when, during the second half of
December and the whole of both January and February, they may be
played indoors.
138.7. shall consist of matches played in accordance with the following formats (save that
some matches played indoors may be played as Futsal games):
355
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT RULES
Foundation Phase Games Programme
GAMES PROGRAMME
Age group
Team size
Pitch size
(yards)
Goal size (feet)
Ball size
Under 9
4v4, 5v5 or 7v7
30x20 to 40x30
(4v4 and 5v5)
12x6
3
(or 4 at the
Home Clubs
option)
50x30 to
60x40 (7v7)
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT RULES
Under 10
Under 11
4v4, 5v5 and 7v7
7v7 or 9v9
30x20 to 40x30
(4v4 and 5v5)
12x6 (4v4 and
5v5)
50x30 to
60x40 (7v7)
12x6 to 16x7
(7v7)
50x30 to
60x40 (7v7)
12x6 to
16x7 (7v7)
70x40 to
80x50 (9v9)
16x7 (9v9)
The participating Clubs shall endeavour to agree which of the above formats shall be utilised,
but in default of agreement the home Club shall decide.
Guidance
The League will organise a regional indoor programme during the second half of December, and the entirety of January
and February. In particular, a programme of Futsal will be delivered for Category 1 and Category 2 Academies. Clubs will
be free to apply to organise Authorised Games outside pursuant to Rule 139.2.
The League will organise Tournaments (lasting more than one day) for each of the Under 9, Under 10 and Under 11 age
groups in the May or June of each year (and in scheduling them it will be borne in mind that June is often the month when
Academy downtime occurs). The Tournaments so arranged for the Under 11 age group will include teams from clubs in
countries other than England and Wales.
In order to deliver the Foundation Phase Games Programme to all Clubs, the target travel time of 1 hour may be exceeded
from time to time, in particular in order to accommodate those Clubs whose home locality is small.
Both Leagues will co-operate to create cross-Category festivals from time to time which shall include all Categories of
Academy and be regionally based.
A six-week programme of festivals of Futsal and other small-sided indoor football for each age range in the Foundation Phase will
be staged. This programme will run from November to February and be organised on a basis of five regions (North East, North
West, Midlands, London and South West, and London and South East). A Futsal tournament involving a regional qualification
process culminating in a national finals event will be organised for each of the Under 9, Under 10 and Under 11 age groups.
139.
Each Club which operates a Category 1, Category 2 or Category 3 Academy:
139.1. must participate fully in the Foundation Phase Games Programme; and
139.2. may organise and participate in additional Authorised Games of the types listed in
paragraphs c), d), f) and g) of that definition only (which shall be notified to the
League (if the Club operates a Category 1 or Category 2 Academy) no later than 72
hours before they are scheduled to take place).
Guidance
The Games Programme Schedule will incorporate free weeks (in addition to those referred to in Rule 178) during which no
fixtures will be arranged by the Leagues. This will allow Clubs to organise additional fixtures pursuant to Rule 139.2. In
addition, Clubs will be able to rearrange fixtures in the Foundation Phase Games Programme in order to attend
tournaments and Festivals provided suitable notice is given, the integrity of the Games Programme is maintained, and a
suitable date for the rearrangement of the fixture is agreed.
356
GAMES PROGRAMME
140.
Each Club shall ensure that each of its Academy Players in the Foundation Phase shall,
subject to fitness, participate in at least half the playing time in any one Season of matches
in the Foundation Phase Games Programme and any other matches organised by the Club
pursuant to Rule 139.2 such playing time to be reasonably spread out over the Season.
Guidance
An Academy Player in the Foundation Phase may still play for his school team or school representative county side.
When assessing whether Rule 140 has been complied with, each Academy Players playing time over the course of the
Season will be assessed and an average calculated (i.e. the Academy Player need not play in half the time of every match).
In addition, Rule 140 requires that the playing time is spread relatively evenly over the course of the fixture programme.
This is to ensure Clubs do not try to backload playing time at the end of the Season simply to ensure the average is met.
141.
The League will organise a games programme for teams in each of the Under 12 to Under 14
age groups of Clubs operating Category 1 and 2 Academies (and for the avoidance of doubt
teams from both Categories shall participate together in this games programme). The
League will also organise a games programme for teams in the Under 15 age group of Clubs
operating Category 1 Academies and of those Category 2 Academies wishing to participate.
142.
The Football League will organise a games programme for teams in each of the Under 12 to
Under 14 age groups of Clubs operating Category 3 Academies.
143.
The games programme for Category 1 Clubs referred to in Rule 141 shall include the Under
13, Under 14 and Under 15 Premier League National Cups, participation in which shall not be
mandatory.
144.
Each Club must inform the League by 30 April in each year whether it wishes to compete in
the Under 13, Under 14 and Under 15 Premier League National Cups the following Season.
145.
The games programmes referred to in Rules 141 and 142 shall consist of matches which shall:
145.1. be competitive but whose results (save for matches in the Under 13, Under 14 and
Under 15 Premier League National Cups) shall not be given any particular competitive
significance between Academies (for example, no league table or the like shall be
produced);
145.2. (in the case of the games programme referred to in Rule 141) be organised on a
regional basis so that as far as reasonably possible no team has to travel more than
two hours to an away match save that longer travel times may be necessary:
145.2.1 in order that each Club can participate meaningfully in the games
programme; and
145.2.2 for matches in the Under 13, Under 14 and Under 15 Premier League
National Cups.
145.6. be played outdoors, except for matches for age groups Under 12 to Under 15 during
the second half of December and the whole of both January and February involving
teams of Category 1 and Category 2 Academies, which shall be played indoors; and
145.7. consist of matches played in accordance with the following formats (save that some
matches played indoors may be played as Futsal games):
357
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT RULES
Youth Development Phase Games Programme
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT RULES
GAMES PROGRAMME
Age group
Team size
Pitch size
(yards)
Goal size (feet)
Ball size
Under 12
11v11
90x60(11v11)
21x7 (11v11)
(or 9v9 if both
Clubs so agree)
70x40 to 80x50
(9v9)
16x7 (9v9)
Under 13
11v11
90x60
21x7
Under 14
11v11
90x60 to
100x60
21x7 to 24x8
Under 15
11v11
110x70
24x8
Guidance
In order to deliver the Youth Development Phase Games Programme to all Clubs, the target travel time of 2 hours may be
exceeded from time to time, particularly in order to accommodate those Clubs whose home geographical region is small.
146.
The League shall organise a games programme for teams consisting of Academy Players in
the Under 16 age group of Clubs operating Category 1 Academies, and another for teams of
Academy Players in these age groups of Clubs operating Category 2 Academies.
147.
Save for any matches played abroad pursuant to Rule 150, the games programme for
Category 1 Clubs referred to in Rule 146 shall:
147.1
be constituted either on a national basis or, if a majority of those Clubs (and Football
League clubs) which operate Category 1 Academies so determine by no later than 31
March in the preceding Season, on a regional basis (as that term is defined in Rule 148; and
147.2 be competitive but whose results shall not be given any particular competitive
significance between Academies (for example, no league table or the like shall be
produced).
148.
The games programme for Category 2 Clubs referred to in Rule 146 shall be organised on a
regional basis, that is to say so that as far as reasonably possible no team has to travel more
than two hours to an away match (save that longer travel times may be necessary in order
that each Club can participate meaningfully in the games programme).
149.
Matches in the games programmes for Category 1 and Category 2 Clubs referred to in Rule
146 shall, unless the Board otherwise permits, be played on Saturdays and arranged so that
as far as possible a Clubs fixtures in it mirror those of its teams in the Professional
Development Phase Games Programme.
150.
As part of the Youth Development Phase Games Programme, the League shall organise
matches (which may be organised as Tournaments) against teams from clubs in membership
of a national association other than the Football Association or the Football Association of
Wales. Such matches shall be organised regularly for Clubs operating Category 1 Academies
and from time to time for Clubs operating Category 2 Academies.
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GAMES PROGRAMME
151.
The Football League shall organise a games programme for teams consisting of players in the
Under 15 and Under 16 age groups of Clubs operating Category 3 Academies, to be played
on a regional basis so that as far as reasonably possible no team has to travel more than two
hours to an away match (save that longer travel times may be necessary in order that each
Club can participate meaningfully in the games programme).
152.
Matches played pursuant to Rules 146 to 151 shall, when played outdoors, be played in
accordance with the following format:
Pitch size
(yards)
Goal size (feet)
Ball size
11v11
110x70
24x8
Each Club which operates a Category 1, Category 2 or Category 3 Academy:
153.1 must participate fully in the Youth Development Phase Games Programme (save
that participation in the Under 13 and Under 14 Premier League National Cups is
voluntary); and
153.2 may organise and participate in additional Authorised Games of the types listed in
paragraphs c), d), f) and g) of that definition only (which shall be notified to the
League (in the case of a Club operating a Category 1 or Category 2 Academy) no later
than 72 hours before they are scheduled to take place).
Guidance
The Games Programme Schedule will incorporate free weeks (in addition to those referred to in Rule 178) during which no
matches will be arranged by the Leagues. This will allow Clubs to organise additional matches pursuant to Rule 153.2
154.
Each Club shall ensure that each of its Academy Players in the Under 12 to Under 14 age
groups shall, subject to fitness, participate in half the playing time of matches in the Youth
Development Phase Games Programme and any other matches organised by his Club
pursuant to Rule 153.2, the Academy Players playing time to be reasonably spread over
the Season.
155.
Each Club shall ensure that each of its Academy Players in the Under 15 to Under 16 age
groups shall, subject to fitness, participate in at least 20 matches per Season (being matches
in the Youth Development Phase Games Programme or any other matches organised by his
Club pursuant to Rule 153.2). Participation in a match shall for the purposes of this Rule
mean playing at least 50% of the game time.
Guidance
An Academy Player in the Youth Development Phase may still play for his school team or school representative county side.
When assessing whether Rule 154 has been complied with, each Academy Players playing time over the course of the Season
will be assessed and an average calculated (i.e. the Academy Player need not play in half the time of every match). In addition,
Rule 154 requires that the playing time is spread relatively evenly over the course of the fixture programme. This is to ensure
clubs do not try to backload playing time at the end of the Season simply to ensure the average is met.
Professional Development Phase Games Programme
156.
The League will organise two games programmes, one for teams of Clubs operating Category
1 Academies and one for teams of Clubs operating Category 2 Academies.
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YOUTH DEVELOPMENT RULES
153.
Team size
GAMES PROGRAMME
157.
The Football League will organise a games programme for teams of Clubs operating Category
3 and Category 4 Academies, and following such consultation determine with those Clubs in
its absolute discretion what games programme(s) should be developed for those Clubs, Rules
relating to the games programme and (subject to Rule 158.3) how that games programme
should be delivered.
158.
The games programmes organised by the League and the Football League pursuant to Rules
156 and 157 will be constituted on the following geographical bases:
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT RULES
158.1 Category 1: a regional league, with some matches played on a national basis and
some international matches against teams representing clubs in membership of
national associations other than the Football Association or the Football Association
of Wales (and such matches may be played either in England or abroad);
158.2 Category 2:
158.2.1 in two leagues, each of which shall be constituted on a geographical basis
(for example one league of northern based teams and one of southern
based teams), the exact constitution of each league to be determined by
the Board in its absolute discretion having regard to those Clubs (and
Football League clubs) which operate Category 2 Academies;
158.2.2 where practical, international matches against teams representing clubs
in membership of a national association other than the Football
Association or the Football Association of Wales (and such matches may
be played either in England or abroad);
158.3 Categories 3 and 4:
158.3.1.
in two or more leagues, each of which shall be constituted on a
geographical basis (for example one league of northern based teams and
one of southern based teams), the exact number of leagues and their
geographical constitution to be determined by the Football League in its
absolute discretion and having regard to those Football League clubs (and
Clubs) which operate Category 3 and 4 Academies.
159.
Matches in the Professional Development Phase Games Programme organised under Rule
156:
159.1. shall be played in accordance with the Laws of the Game (and for the avoidance of
doubt shall be in the 11v11 format);
159.2. shall be for Players in the Under 18 age group (and younger) only, save that a Club
may name in its team sheet a goalkeeper in the Under 19 age group;
159.3. shall only have five substitutes named on the team sheet (and for the avoidance of
doubt up to three substitutes may enter the field of play);
159.4. shall consist of competitive leagues and Tournaments; and
159.5. may include of an optional Futsal programme organised by the League (for Clubs
operating Category 1 and Category 2 Academies) in the months of December,
January and February.
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GAMES PROGRAMME
160.
Matches in the Professional Development Phase Games Programme organised under Rule
157:
160.1 shall be played in accordance with the Laws of the Game (and for the avoidance of
doubt shall be in the 11 v 11 format);
160.2 shall be for Players in the Under 18 age group (and younger) only, save that up to 2
Players in the Under 19 age group may be named on the team sheet for a match
provided they are:
160.2.1
a goalkeeper; or
160.3. shall only have 5 substitutes named on the team sheet (and for the avoidance of
doubt only 3 substitutes may enter the field of play);
160.4. shall consist of competitive leagues and/or Tournaments; and
160.5. may include an optional Futsal programme organised by the League in the months
of December, January and February.
161.
Further provisions binding on Clubs competing in the Leagues referred to in Rule 159.4 shall
be set out in the rules of those Leagues.
162.
Each Club which operates an Academy:
162.1 must participate fully in the Professional Development Phase Games Programme;
162.2 may organise and participate in additional Authorised Games (which shall be
notified to the relevant League no later than 72 hours before they are scheduled to
take place).
Professional Development League
163.
Each Club which operates a Category 1 Academy shall compete in Professional Development
League 1.
164.
Each Club which operates a Category 2 Academy shall compete in Professional Development
League 2 unless it is able to demonstrate to the League that its starting 11s in its first team
matches during the preceding Season in those competitions set in Rule L.9.1 to Rule L.9.5
included on average at least five Players in the Under 21 age group or younger.
165.
Each Club which operates a Category 3 or Category 4 Academy may compete in the
development league to be organised by the Football League.
166.
The League will organise Professional Development League 1, which shall consist of a national
league competition played on a competitive basis.
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YOUTH DEVELOPMENT RULES
160.2.2 registered as a Scholar and are only continuing as a Scholar beyond the
age of 18 because of injury or other extenuating circumstances as
approved by the League of which the Club is a member in accordance
with that Leagues relevant procedures;
GAMES PROGRAMME
167.
The League will organise Professional Development League 2, which shall consist of a league
or leagues played on a competitive basis organised on a regional basis, the composition of
such regional league(s) to be at the absolute discretion of the Board who shall so far as
reasonably possible determine the composition of each such league to ensure that each Club
has to travel no more than three hours to each match (save that longer travel times may be
necessary in order that each Club (or club) can participate meaningfully in Professional
Development League 2).
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT RULES
Guidance
Clubs who operate Category 2 Academies have expressed a desire to have some element of their Games Programme in the
Professional Development Phase organised on a national basis, and not just on a regional basis as set out in Rule 167. The
League will work to develop this proposal further.
168.
The Football League will, if required, organise (or procure the organisation of, for example,
through the Football Combination or Central League) Professional Development League 3,
which shall consist of a league or leagues played on a competitive basis and organised on a
regional basis, the composition of such regional league(s) and the minimum number of
matches to be played by each Club to be at the absolute discretion of the Football League
who shall so far as reasonably possible determine the composition of each such league to
ensure that each Club (or club) has to travel no more than three hours to each match (save
that longer travel times may be necessary in order that each Club (or club) can participate
meaningfully in Professional Development League 3). For the avoidance of doubt teams of
Clubs operating Category 3 and Category 4 Academies shall compete together in Professional
Development League 3.
169.
Eligibility in each of the Professional Development Leagues shall be limited to players in age
group Under 21 or younger, save that each Club may nominate on its team sheet for any
match in a Professional Development League no more than:
169.1 one older goalkeeper; and
169.2 the number of older outfield players determined pursuant to Rule 170.
170.
The number of older outfield players referred to in Rule 169 shall be determined in respect of
each Professional Development League by such number as a majority of the Clubs (and
Football League clubs) who compete in it so determine by no later than 31 March in the
preceding Season (and in any case shall be no fewer than three and no greater than five).
171.
At least three matches in the Professional Development League shall be played at the Clubs
Stadium, and other matches may be played at an alternative ground subject to the approval
of the Board or the Football League (as appropriate). Such alternative grounds may include
a pitch at the Clubs Academy provided that it is floodlit, has a fenced off pitch and provides
a spectator area.
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GAMES PROGRAMME
Guidance
The Board will need to be satisfied, prior to approving any alternative ground (including one at an Academy) that it provides
satisfactory facilities for the playing of matches in the Professional Development League. Such facilities include the pitch,
floodlight levels, changing rooms for the teams and Match Officials, and spectator areas. Further consultation on these
issues will be undertaken in due course.
Unless otherwise authorised by the Board, and subject to any transitional arrangements
authorised by the Board in respect of Season 2012/13 pursuant to which some midweek
matches may be scheduled, matches in the Professional Development Leagues shall be
played on Saturdays, save that the home Club shall, subject to the rules of the Professional
Development Leagues, have discretion to change the date and kick-off time of a match to
Friday evening, or any time on Sunday or Monday.
173.
Further provisions binding on Clubs competing in the Professional Development League shall
be set out in the rules of those Leagues.
174.
The League will in addition organise international matches (which may take place by way of
Tournaments) for teams competing in Professional Development Leagues 1 and 2.
Games Programme: Postponement etc. of Matches
175.
A match in the games programme between Academy teams in age groups Under 9 to Under
16 inclusive shall not be cancelled, postponed or abandoned except with the written consent
of the Board or on the instructions of the officiating referee (or if the officiating referee is a
minor, the official of the county FA who has accompanied him to the match) who shall be
empowered to instruct that such match be cancelled, postponed or abandoned only if he
considers that the pitch is unfit for, or if adverse weather conditions preclude, the playing of
the match in which event the Club at whose ground the match should have been played shall
within seven days give to the Secretary notice in writing to that effect.
176.
Except in the case of an Under 9 to Under 16 games programme match which, without either
participating Club being at fault, is cancelled, postponed or abandoned under the provisions
of Rule 175, any Club which causes the cancellation, postponement or abandonment of such
a match will be in breach of these Rules.
177.
The Board shall have power to specify the equipment and facilities to be provided by Clubs
for the playing of matches between Academies.
178.
In consultation with the Football Association, a minimum of four weekends each Season will
be identified by the League upon which there will be no fixtures for Academy teams, such
weekends being devoted to international development, selected players courses and inservice training of coaches and staff.
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YOUTH DEVELOPMENT RULES
172.
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT RULES
EDUCATION AND WELFARE
General
179.
Each Club which operates an Academy shall establish an Education Programme which shall
set out the activities to be undertaken by the Club to ensure that the education of its
Academy Players and Players under the age of 21 is supported effectively and which:
179.1
is appropriate to the Category of its Academy;
179.2 complies with all applicable requirements set out in this section of the Rules; and
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT RULES
179.3 is evaluated by the Club within each Development Phase to ensure it is meeting its
objectives as set out therein.
180.
Each Club which operates an Academy shall ensure that each of its Academy Players receives
a formal Education Programme which:
180.1. is appropriate to his age and Training Model;
180.2. meets his specific academic needs;
180.3. complies with all legal requirements;
180.4. is structured to ensure that his academic development is not compromised as a
result of his being coached by the Clubs Academy;
180.5. in the case of an Academy Player who is entered into a Scholarship Agreement with
the Club, consists of either the advanced apprenticeship framework for sporting
excellence (AASE) or any other programme of education approved in writing by the
League;
180.6. shall continue notwithstanding that the Academy Player signs a professional
contract and which shall comply with the requirements of the Education and Skills
Act 2008 with regard to education and training.
Guidance
In relation to Rule 180.5 any other programme of education approved in writing by the Football League will be in conjunction
with the PFA.
181.
Each Academy Players educational progression under his Education Programme shall be
recorded on his Performance Clock.
182.
Each Club which operates an Academy shall nominate a member of staff who shall be
responsible for:
182.1 liaising with the school at which Academy Players are being educated;
182.2 ensuring that any issues concerning an Academy Players education arising from
that liaison are addressed to the satisfaction of the school; and
182.3 ensuring that for Academy Players on the Full Time and Hybrid Training Models (and
where the League requests, for Academy Players on the Part Time Training Model)
each Academy Players school reports and educational data are obtained from his
school and recorded on his Performance Clock.
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EDUCATION AND WELFARE
Guidance
Clubs attention is drawn to the Guidance note under Rule 1.57: the Education Management System is a function contained
within the Performance Clock. It must be used for assisting the management of Academy Players educational attainment
data, and reference to the Performance Clock in these Rules, particularly in the context of education, should be read
accordingly.
Each Club shall take all reasonable steps to ensure that it protects the welfare of each of its
Academy Players and Players under the age of 21 by offering support for his wellbeing and
pastoral care generally.
184.
The provisions of Section S of the Leagues Rules (concerning the Safeguarding of Vulnerable
Groups and Safe Recruitment) apply to Academies and Development Centres.
185.
Without prejudice to the generality of Rule 184 each Club shall appoint an Academy
Safeguarding Officer who shall:
185.1 undertake the functions set out in Rule S.10.4 specifically with regard to the
Academy; and
185.2 liaise with the Clubs Childrens Safeguarding Manager.
186.
Clubs and Academy Staff shall observe and comply with the requirements of the Code of
Practice entitled The Health and Safety of Academy Players on Residential Tours, Festivals,
Tournaments and Visits set out in Appendix 13 and any breach thereof shall be treated as a
breach of these Rules.
187.
Clubs shall ensure that their Academy Players are insured in accordance with advice
circulated by the League from time to time.
188.
Clubs shall establish, maintain and, when necessary, implement a complaints procedure for
Academy Players and Parents, a copy of which shall be submitted to the League.
189.
The Code of Conduct set out in Appendix 14 shall be binding on Academy Players of
compulsory school age attending Academies and their Parents and on Clubs and Officials
and any breach thereof by such Academy Players or by Clubs or Officials shall be treated as
a breach of these Rules.
Induction Events
190.
Each Club shall arrange a pre-season induction event for Academy Players and their Parents
and there shall be at least one such induction event per Development Phase.
191.
The induction meeting referred to in Rule 190 shall provide such information to the Academy
Players and their Parents as is necessary in order for them to understand the coaching and, if
relevant, education that the Academy Player will receive from the Club.
192.
Each Club which operates an Academy shall permit a representative of the League to attend
such induction meetings on request.
Reports on Educational Progression
193.
Each Club which operates an Academy shall provide progress reports to the Parent of each
Academy Player to whom it provides a Full Time Education Programme.
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YOUTH DEVELOPMENT RULES
183.
EDUCATION AND WELFARE
194.
The progress reports shall:
194.1 detail the educational progression of the Academy Player; and
194.2 be provided as and when necessary, but as a minimum at least once every 12 weeks.
Guidance
With regard to Rule 194.2, Rule 42.2 states that Academy Players in the Under 12 to Under 18 age groups shall receive a
Multi-disciplinary Review every six weeks. The educational progress report need only be undertaken once every 12 weeks
(i.e. not for each Multi-disciplinary Review) but must be undertaken as part of a Multi-disciplinary Review.
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT RULES
Delivery of the Education Programme
195.
Part Time Training Model
Each Club which operates an Academy shall, in respect of each of its Academy Players being
trained under the Part Time Training Model:
195.1
inform the Academy Players school that he is being so trained;
195.2 if the League so requests obtain from the Academy Players school his school
reports and, where possible, educational attainment data;
195.3 use the information obtained (if any) to monitor the Academy Players academic
progression by reference to his school reports and, where possible, educational
attainment data, and record it on his Performance Clock; and
195.4 liaise with the school on a regular basis in order to discuss and address any issues
concerning the Academy Players education which have risen or may arise as a
consequence of his being trained at the Clubs Academy.
Guidance
The Part Time Training Model may be used by Category 1, 2 and 3 Academies in the Foundation Phase (Under 9 to Under 11),
and by Category 2 and 3 Academies in the Youth Development Phase: see further Rule 116.
The Part Time Training Model envisages that coaching will take place outside the Core Coaching Time, but Clubs should
nevertheless establish good communication with each Academy Players school, obtain his school reports and, where
possible, educational attainment data, monitor and record his academic progression on his Performance Clock, and address
any relevant issues which arise as a result of the Academy Player being coached at the Academy (and in particular any conflict
between the demands of his coaching and those of his education).
196.
Hybrid Training Model
Each Club which operates the Hybrid Training Model must appoint a sufficient number of
appropriately qualified teaching staff to provide the educational support referred to in Rule 197.2.
197.
Each Club which operates an Academy shall, in respect of each of its Academy Players being
trained under the Hybrid Training Model:
197.1. undertake all necessary liaison and co-operation with the Academy Players school
to ensure that the required element of coaching can take place within the Core
Coaching Time;
197.2. provide to the Academy Player such additional educational support (to be detailed
in the written agreement referred to in Rule 197.5 as shall be necessary to
compensate for teaching he has missed, and to ensure that his education is not
adversely affected, as a result of being released from school to undertake coaching
during the Core Coaching Team;
366
EDUCATION AND WELFARE
197.3. obtain from the Academy Players school his school reports and, where possible,
educational attainment data;
197.4. monitor the Academy Players academic progression (including by use of the
information obtained from the Academy Players school pursuant to Rule 197.3) and
record the information obtained pursuant to Rule 197.3 on his Performance Clock in
a timely fashion and at least every 12 weeks (to coincide with dates of his Multidisciplinary Reviews);
197.6. liaise with the school at least every six weeks in order to discuss and address any
issues concerning the Academy Players education which may arise or have arisen as
a consequence of his being so trained.
Guidance
The Hybrid Training Model may be used by Category 1 Academies in the Foundation Phase (Under 9 to Under 11), and by
Category 1 and Category 2 Academies in the Youth Development Phase: see further Rule 116.
Clubs attention is drawn to the following comments in section 7.3.1 of the EPPP. Although these comments refer to the
Foundation Phase, they are relevant to the Hybrid Training Model generally.
It is assumed that the majority of the coaching will be delivered after school and at weekends. Flexing the season will also enable
Academies to gain greater access to players. It is recommended that wherever possible and particularly in the case of Category 1
Academies where the contact time is highest, the after school sessions are established inside the Core Coaching Time and this may
require some negotiation with schools and parents to establish the programme effectively. Close liaison with schools to ensure
that players are managing the joint workloads is appropriate but no other specific education interventions are being proposed in
this phase.
198.
Full Time Training Model
Each Club which operates an Academy shall, in respect of each of its Academy Players in the
Youth Development Phase being trained under the Full Time Training Model, ensure that it
provides the Academy Player with coaching and education in accordance with a programme
which complies with Rules 199 to 204 and which is approved in advance by the League.
199.
The education element of the Full Time Training Model must comply with these Rules and be
structured in accordance with one of the four options set out below or in accordance with
such other proposals as the League may approve.
200.
Each Club which operates the Full Time Training Model must:
200.1 enter into an agreement with any school at which its Academy Players are being
educated setting out the obligations of the Club and the school in respect of the
education of those Academy Players;
200.2 ensure that Academy Players in the Under 12, Under 13 and Under 14 age groups
being educated at schools are fully integrated with other pupils of their age, which
obligation shall include (without limitation) attending lessons with such other pupils
according to the schools normal timetable (save where the Academy Players are
being coached in the Core Coaching Time in accordance with these Rules);
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YOUTH DEVELOPMENT RULES
197.5. enter into a written agreement with the Academy Players school and Parent which
sets out details of the delivery of the Hybrid Training Model to the Academy Player,
including weekly timetables, the likely impact on the Academy Players education,
and any additional educational support to be provided by the Club;
EDUCATION AND WELFARE
200.3 ensure that there is in place a written agreement between the Club, each Academy
Player engaged on the Full Time Training Model, his Parent and his school which sets
out full details of his education and Coaching Curriculum;
200.4 ensure that the Education Programme of each such Academy Player provides him
with a minimum of 20 hours education during each week of the school term;
200.5 ensure that appropriate staff/student ratios are utilised for all educational activity in
which the Academy Player is engaged;
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT RULES
200.6 ensure that each such Academy Players education is tailored to his academic ability
and attainment targets and meets national guidelines;
200.7 obtain from the Academy Players school his school reports and, where possible,
educational attainment data; and
200.8 monitor the Academy Players academic progression (including by use of the
information obtained from the Academy Players school pursuant to Rule 200.7)
and record the information obtained pursuant to Rule 200.7 on his Performance
Clock in a timely fashion and at least every 12 weeks (to coincide with dates of his
Multi-disciplinary Reviews).
Guidance
With regard to Rule 200.8 pursuant to Rule 42.2 Academy Players in the Under 12 to Under 18 age groups must receive a
Multi-disciplinary Review every six weeks. The requirement in Rule 200.8 must be undertaken at every second such Multidisciplinary Review.
201.
Without prejudice to the generality of Rule 38, each Club which operates the Hybrid or Full
Time Training Model must in respect of each such Training Model:
201.1 not do so unless the PGB has pre-approved and annually certified its proposed
delivery of the Training Model; and
201.2 permit the League and PGB to monitor and assess its delivery of the Training Model,
including in respect of an individual Academy Player, in order to ensure that it
complies with these Rules; and
201.3 forthwith implement any changes to its delivery of the Training Model that the
League or PGB may require.
Guidance
The League and PGB may take advice from the Education Advisory Group (and utilise the Education Ombudsmen) in
connection with the assessment pursuant to Rule 201.
In the case of concerns over a Training Model which has been previously approved, it is anticipated that in the first instance
an action plan to address any issues would be drafted, and the Club Support Manager or Education Ombudsman would work
with the Club over a specific period to put the recommendations in place. Accordingly, Rule 202 below would be regarded as
a last resort.
202.
If the League is not satisfied that a Clubs delivery of the Hybrid or Full Time Training Model
complies with these Rules:
202.1 it may refuse to an application to register an Academy Player on it; and
202.2 the Board may exercise its powers set out in Rule 279.
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EDUCATION AND WELFARE
203.
If a Club wishes to engage an Academy Player on the Full Time Training or Hybrid Model
(whether or not the Academy Player is already registered with the Club), it shall complete
and submit to the Secretary either PLYD Form 5A or PLYD Form 5B (as appropriate) signed
on behalf of the Club by an Authorised Signatory.`
204.
If the registration of an Academy Player on the Full Time Training Model is terminated by the
Club or by the Board of its own volition, or if he changes to another Training Model, the Club
shall, unless his Parent agrees otherwise, continue to provide to him until the end of the
academic year in which he reaches the age of 16 education and accommodation in
accordance with the arrangements made at the time of he was first engaged on the Full Time
Training Model.
The Full Time Training Model may be used by Category 1 Academies in the Youth Development Phase, and must be used by
all Academies in the Professional Development Phase: see further Rule 116.
Form PLYD 5A must be used for all Academy Players whom the Club wishes to engage on the Full Time Training Model. If the
Academy Player is not already registered with the Club, Form PLYD 5 (Academy Player Registration Application) must also be
completed and submitted to the League (see Rule 263). If the Academy Player is already registered with the Club, Form PLYD5
need not also be submitted. Clubs attention is drawn to the undertakings that they must give under PLYD5.
The four options referred to in Rule 199 are set out below. This list of options is not exhaustive, and Clubs are free to develop
other models which deliver the same results as the options set out in the Elite Player Performance Plan.
Each Clubs proposals for how it will deliver the Full Time Training Model must be approved in advance by the League. The
League may also check each Clubs delivery of the Full Time Training Model in order to verify that it is in accordance with these
Rules and with the pre-approved proposals, and in order to verify that no Academy Players education is being prejudiced as
a result of his being prejudiced as a result of his being engaged on the Full Time Training Model. Clubs attention is drawn to
Rules 278 and 279 in this regard.
Option 1
Clubs may enter into contractual relationships with an identified school or schools at which Academy Players receive their
education.
The relationship will need to be flexed in terms of the amount of time that Academies would require Academy Players to be
available for daily coaching. The school day will need to be flexed to accommodate the Coaching Curriculum whilst ensuring
that boys educational development does not suffer.
Specific tutor support for the Education Programme will be required for all Academy Players engaged in the Full Time Training
Model over and above the normal curriculum. Additional tutor support will need to be individually tailored to the Academy
Players needs.
Clubs will need to decide how and where Academy Players will be coached. The optimum environment is at the Clubs
dedicated training facilities but this will require a school in Education Option 1 to be in close proximity to the Clubs training
facility so that the Academy Players can move easily between the school and the Club. With the Full Time Training Model,
the school will need to be in close proximity to the training ground or else the training will need to be accommodated at the
school.
The other major consideration for Clubs which operate Category 1 Academies will be the need to provide dedicated housing,
house parents and a secure environment in which to live and work whilst staying with the Club. This will need to apply to all
Academy Players who live outside a short commute from their Clubs training ground.
Option 2
In this option, Clubs may choose to develop and extend their own educational facilities at the training ground and, in effect,
develop an onsite school facility. For Clubs which operate a Category 1 Academy, accommodation would still be required on
or near the training ground to house the Academy Players and the associated social and welfare support would need to be
factored into the delivery of this approach. Clubs may continue to contract an educational partner/provider but the schooling
would take place at the Club.
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YOUTH DEVELOPMENT RULES
Guidance
EDUCATION AND WELFARE
Option 3
Clubs may wish to establish their own schools. These schools may be general in their recruitment with specialist classes
or groups of classes catering for the Academy Players specialist needs. In this Education Option the same issues regarding
the location of the school on or near the training ground remain relevant as does the need to provide appropriate housing
and care.
Option 4
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT RULES
Where two or three Academies are clustered together, especially in urban areas, it may be possible to identify a single
school where each of the Clubs sends their Academy Players. This school would then become the hub for the Academies.
The Coaching Curriculum may be split between the training ground and the school premises subject to the location of the
school in relation to the Club.
Further guidance in respect of education in the Professional Development Phase, where all Clubs must utilise the Full Time
Training Model, is set out in paragraph 7.3.3 of the Elite Player Performance Plan:
All Clubs in the Professional Development Phase will be required to deliver the Full Time Training Model. Academy Players
will have access to training up to four hours a day in two separate sessions. The season will be developed increasingly to
mirror the professional game so there will be less opportunity to flex the season for purposes of creating greater coaching
contact time during the summer months.
Clubs which operate Category 1 and 2 Academies will have the necessary infrastructure at their training grounds to enable
them to provide formal education provision for Academy Players in the Under 17 and Under 18 age groups which may be
delivered principally at the training ground rather than offsite at a school or college.
This approach envisages the delivery of the formal education components at the training ground in purpose built facilities
and as part of an integrated flexible weekly programme which compliments and supports the Coaching Curriculum. The
delivery of the formal Education Programme may be either through fully qualified in house staff or through an outside
provider who is able to meet the needs and demands of the integrated programme. Delivering the Education Programme
in this way will provide maximum flexibility allowing coaches to flex and stretch the Coaching Curriculum to suit the
particular needs of each Academy Player.
Category 3 and 4 Academies will not necessarily be equipped to provide the formal education component at the training
ground. Category 3 and 4 Academies may choose to deliver the formal education provision off site at a local education
provider. This will require Heads of Education to ensure that as flexible an Education Programme as possible can be created
in partnership with a school/college so that coaches can gain access to the required time for coaching.
205.
Each Club which operates an Academy shall notify the League, in such a manner as the League
shall from time to time specify, of the Training Model on which each of its Academy Players is
engaged and, if an Academy Player changes to the Hybrid Training Model or Part Time Training
Model, forthwith inform the League of the change and provide such evidence as the League
may require to show that the Academy Player and his Parent consented to the change.
Welfare, Social Development and Lifestyle Management
206.
Each Club which operates an Academy shall establish a programme to educate each of its
Academy Players in Lifestyle Management Skills.
207.
The programme referred to in Rule 206 shall ensure that each Academy Player trained under
the Full Time Training Model and/or in the Professional Development Phase has the
opportunity to engage in activities outside the Academy which will encourage him to take an
active part in the community and develop an understanding of good citizenship.
208.
Each Academy Player shall engage in the activities referred to in Rule 207 unless he has good
cause not to do so and each Club shall take all reasonable steps to ensure that each of its
Academy Players does so engage.
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EDUCATION AND WELFARE
209.
Each Club which operates an Academy shall nominate a member of Academy Staff to
manage and deliver the said programme.
210.
Each Club shall nominate an Official to be responsible for the welfare and supervision of
Academy Players engaged on the Part Time Training Model or Hybrid Training Model, while
they are present at the Clubs facilities.
Player Exit/Release Strategy
Each Club which operates an Academy shall devise and implement a programme, to be
managed by its Head of Education and Welfare or other appropriate Official to assist its
Academy Players released from the Academy at completion of their Under 16, Under 17 or
Under 18 year in circumstances where it appears they will not be joining another Club (or
club).
212.
Any such programme in respect of Academy Players being released at the completion of
their Under 18 year shall be designed so that it dovetails with the support programme for
such released Academy Players to be operated by the League.
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YOUTH DEVELOPMENT RULES
211.
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT RULES
SPORTS SCIENCE AND MEDICINE
Sports Science and Medicine Programme
Each Club which operates an Academy shall establish a Sports Science and Medicine
Programme (in accordance with the criteria set out in these Rules which apply to the
Category of its Academy) for the benefit of its Academy Players.
214.
Each Clubs Sport Science and Medicine Programme shall be managed by its Head of
Academy Sports Science and Medicine (in the case of a Club which operates a Category 1 or
Category 2 Academy) or by an appropriately qualified Official (in the case of the Club which
operates a Category 3 or Category 4 Academy).
215.
The Sports Science and Medicine Programme of each Club should detail the planned
provision to each of its Academy Players of at least the following areas:
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT RULES
213.
215.1. sports science (including physiology, biomechanics, physical testing and
measurement);
215.2. physiotherapy (including hydrotherapy and sports massage);
215.3. medical services (including the prevention and treatment of injury and diet and
nutrition);
215.4. Performance Analysis; and
215.5. psychology.
216.
The progress and development of each Academy Player under the Sports Science and
Medicine Programme (including without limitation the results of the tests set out in Rule
217, and full details of any injuries, the treatment thereof, and the length of any period of
rehabilitation) shall be noted in his Multi-disciplinary Review and recorded in his
Performance Clock.
217.
Each Club which operates an Academy shall ensure that each of its Academy Players
undergoes the following tests to measure physical and physiological fitness (as such tests are
defined in the Audit Tool):
217.1. age-appropriate medical and physical screening;
217.2. anthropometric assessments;
217.3. physiological/fitness testing;
217.4. movement and posture/functional screening;
217.5. predictive testing of size and shape/maturation measurement (save that a Club
operating a Category 4 Academy shall not be obliged to conduct such tests);
217.6. psychological profiling (Category 1 Academies only); and
217.7. monitoring of physical exertion (Category 1 Academies only);
and shall submit to the League such information as it may from time to time require in order
to establish a national database of athletic development.
218.
372
Subject to a Club complying with Rule 217, the League will make available to it (on an
anonymised basis) benchmarked data derived from the information provided to it by all Clubs.
SPORTS SCIENCE AND MEDICINE
219.
Each Club which operates an Academy shall ensure that details of all injuries suffered by its
Academy Players and of all rehabilitation are recorded and provided to the League and the
FA in order that a national audit of injury and rehabilitation may be maintained.
220.
Subject to a Club complying with Rule 219, the League will make available to it benchmarked
data derived from the national audit of injury and rehabilitation.
221.
Each Club which operates an Academy shall ensure that it has in place an Emergency Action
Plan, and that all relevant Academy Staff are aware of its contents, and that it provides a
copy of it in advance of all its home matches in the Games Programmes to its opponents.
See Rule 103.5: the Academy Doctor shall be responsible for the preparation of his Clubs Emergency Action Plan. The League
will assist with the sharing of Emergency Action Plans, eg by use of the Extranet.
222.
Each Club which operates an Academy shall ensure that there is available at all games
involving Academy teams appropriate first aid or primary care provision and, without
prejudice to the generality of the foregoing or to any Rules applicable to an Authorised
Game, that:
222.1. a doctor who holds a current Football Association Advanced Resuscitation and
Emergency Aid certificate or an equivalent or higher qualification approved by the
Board or paramedic (in the case of a Club which operates a Category 1 or Category
2 Academy) or a physiotherapist who holds the Intermediate First Aid for Sport
qualification or an equivalent or higher qualification approved by the Board (in the
case of a Club which operates a Category 3 or Category 4 Academy) is present at
each game in the Professional Development Phase Games Programme; and
222.2. a doctor or physiotherapist who holds the Intermediate First Aid for Sport
qualification or an equivalent or higher qualification approved by the Board is
present at each venue at which matches in the Foundation Phase and Youth
Development Phase take place;
222.3. a defibrillator is maintained at each venue at which matches are played and at which
coaching takes place.
Guidance
Rule 81 requires each coach to hold a current Basic First Aid for Sport Qualification or an equivalent or higher qualification
approved by the Board. Thus, all coaches attending matches in all of the Development Phases should hold this qualification.
Knowledge of how to use a defibrillator is a requirement of the Basic First Aid for Sport Qualification. Accordingly, the net
effect of these Rules is that there must be somebody present at all games who knows how to use a defibrillator.
Each Clubs Emergency Action Plan should include details of the members of Academy Staff required by Rules 222.1 and
222.2.
223.
A physiotherapist qualified as set out in Rule 99.2 or Rule 100 or a coach who holds the
Football Associations Diploma in the Treatment and Management of Injuries or an
equivalent or higher qualification or a member of staff who holds a current emergency first
aid qualification awarded by the FA, the British Red Cross, St John Ambulance (or by another
entity provided it is approved by the Health and Safety Executive as an emergency first aid
qualification) shall be present at all coaching taking place in Academies (without prejudice to
the requirements of Rule 222).
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YOUTH DEVELOPMENT RULES
Guidance
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT RULES
TALENT IDENTIFICATION AND RECRUITMENT
Scouts: Qualifications
224.
Each Club which operates an Academy shall ensure that each of its Scouts:
224.1. is in possession of such qualification as the League may require from time to time;
224.2. understands and complies in full with these Rules and the Code of Conduct for
Scouts; and
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT RULES
224.3. undertakes Continued Professional Development each year.
225.
Each Club which operates an Academy upon employing or engaging a Scout shall within five
days thereof apply to register him with the League in the manner prescribed by the Board and
providing to the League evidence that the Scout holds the qualification required by Rule
224.1.
226.
The League shall register a Scout and shall notify the applicant Club to that effect upon being
satisfied that:
226.1. the Scout holds the qualification required by Rule 224.1;
226.2. the Scout is not currently registered as the Scout of another Club.
227.
At the start of each season the League shall issue a Scout Identification Card to each
registered Scout.
Guidance
For Season 2015/16, each Club shall continue to issue Scout Identification Cards to each of its registered Scouts, until such
time as the League notifies Clubs that it is the responsibility of the League.
228.
Except during the period of five days referred to in Rule 225, no Club shall employ a Scout
who is not registered with the League pursuant to Rule 226 unless it has made an application
to register him which has yet to be determined.
229.
Upon a Club which operates an Academy ceasing to employ or engage a registered Scout, it
shall within five days thereof:
229.1. give notice to that effect to the League who shall thereupon remove his name from
the register; and
229.2. return his Scout Identification Card to the League.
230.
Scouts shall conduct themselves in accordance with the Code of Conduct for Scouts set out
in Appendix 8.
231.
Each Club which operates an Academy shall take all reasonable endeavours to ensure that its
Scouts comply in all respects with Rule 230 and the Code of Conduct for Scouts.
Scouts: Attendance at Matches
232.
Each Club which operates an Academy shall permit the Scouts of other Clubs to attend at
matches played in the Games Programmes provided that:
232.1. the Club which has employed or engaged the Scout notifies both Clubs involved in the
match of the Scouts proposed attendance by no later than 12 noon on the last Working
Day before the published date of the match; and
232.2. the Scout is able to produce on demand to the home Club his Scout Identification Card.
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TALENT IDENTIFICATION AND RECRUITMENT
233.
Each Scout shall inform the home Club of his arrival at a match.
234.
Each Club which operates an Academy shall prepare and produce a document setting out the
process of how Scouts employed by that Club should approach players and the process
thereafter. Such process should comply in full with the Rules and the Code of Conduct for
Scouts and should build upon the training that the Scout received while obtaining the
relevant scouting qualification referred to in Rule 224.1.
Scouts: Disciplinary Action
Any breach by a Scout of Rule 230 shall amount to a breach of these Rules and the League
shall be entitled to take disciplinary action against the Scout and/or his Club for such breach
in accordance with Section W of these Rules. In addition to the sanctions available under
Section W, an additional sanction of the removal of a Scouts registration shall also be
available at the conclusion of the disciplinary proceedings, should a breach be held to exist.
236.
Any breach by a Club of Rule 228 or Rule 231 shall amount to a breach of these Rules and the
League shall be entitled to take disciplinary action against the Club for such breach in
accordance with Section W of the Leagues Rules. In addition to the sanctions available
under Section W, an additional sanction of the removal of a Scouts registration shall also be
available at the conclusion of the disciplinary proceedings, should a breach be held to exist.
Registrations and Provision of Information by the League
237.
Upon receiving an application by a Club to register an Academy Player, the League shall immediately
provide to the Academy Players Parent a copy of these Rules and of the Parents Charter.
238.
The League will undertake the registration (which shall be backdated to the date of
application) of the Academy Player if:
238.1. 7 days have elapsed from the date the League sent the Parent the documents
referred to above; and
238.2. during that time, the League has not been contacted by the Academy Player or his
Parent to inform the League that he no longer wishes to be registered as an Academy
Player for that Club.
239.
The Academy Player may be coached by and play for the Club during the period of 7 days
referred to in Rule 238.1.
240.
The provisions of Rules 302 to 305 shall apply during the period referred to in Rule 238.1.
241.
If, contrary to Rule 240, the Academy Player directly or indirectly contacts another Club, and
such contact results in the Academy Player becoming registered with that other Club without
the consent of the Club referred to in Rule 237, the other Club shall be presumed to have
breached Rule 302.
Guidance
Rule 237
The League will where possible send the Rules and Charter to Parents by email with a read-receipt, or by recorded delivery
if no email address is provided.
Rule 241
The presumption set out in this Rule is rebuttable if the new Club can establish to the satisfaction of the Board that it did
not in fact breach Rule 302.
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YOUTH DEVELOPMENT RULES
235.
TALENT IDENTIFICATION AND RECRUITMENT
Time/Distance Rules
242.
Subject to Rule 270, each Club which operates an Academy shall be permitted to register
Academy Players who reside within the travel times measured from the location of the Clubs
principal venue for the provision of coaching and education set out in the following table.
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT RULES
Permitted Recruitment time/distance
Foundation
Phase
Youth Development Phase
Professional
Development Phase
1 hour
No limit for Academy Players
engaged in the Full Time
Training Model;
no limit
Category 1
1 hours for all other
Academy Players in the
Youth Development Phase.
Category 2
1 hour
no limit
Category 3
1 hour
no limit
Category 4
N/A
N/A
no limit
Any question or dispute concerning the travelling time requirements in this Rule shall be
determined by the Board.
Trials
243.
Subject to the conditions set out in Rules 244 and 250, a Trialist may attend an Academy for
up to six consecutive weeks in any one Season without being registered provided that:
243.1. at least seven days prior written notice to that effect shall be given to any junior club
of which such Trialist is a member; and
243.2. before the trial commences his particulars shall be notified forthwith to the League
by sending to the Secretary PLYD Form 2 duly completed.
244.
In the case of the Trialist in one of the age groups Under 9 to Under 16, a Club may apply to
the Board for permission to extend the period of six weeks referred to in Rule 243 for an initial
additional period of six weeks, and then for a further period of six weeks thereafter.
245.
An application to extend a trial period must be:
245.1. made by the Club at least two weeks before the Trialists trial period is due to expire;
245.2. accompanied by such information and assurances as the League may require; and
245.3. consented to by the Trialist and his Parent.
246.
An application to extend a trial period shall only be granted by the League if it is satisfied as
to arrangements put in place by the Club for the welfare and education of the Trialist.
247.
A Trialist may not register with another Club (or club) during the initial 6 week trial period but
may at any time terminate an extended trial period to which he is subject.
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TALENT IDENTIFICATION AND RECRUITMENT
248.
Rule 41 (Performance Clocks) and Rule 42 (Multi-disciplinary Reviews) shall apply with
regard to Trialists.
249.
Each Club shall give the League all such access to information and persons as it may require
in order to monitor the welfare and progression of Trialists and to determine whether to
grant an application to extend a trial period.
Guidance
The Education Ombudsman may be asked to advise on the actual and proposed arrangements put in place by the Club to
provide for the educational progression of any Trialist in respect of whom an application under Rule 249 is made.
250.
The conditions referred to in Rule 243 are as follows:
250.2. a trial may be offered or given by a Club which is permitted to recruit nationally
(because it operates a Category 1 Academy and is permitted to recruit nationally
pursuant to Rule 242) to anyone in age groups Under 12 and Under 13;
250.3. a trial may be offered or given by any Club to which Rule 250.2 does not apply to
anyone in age groups Under 12 and Under 13 who has his permanent residence
within one and a half hours travelling time of the Clubs Academy;
250.4. a trial may be offered or given by a Club to anyone in age groups Under 14 to Under
16 inclusive;
250.5. subject to Rule 250.6.2 a trial may be offered or given by one or more Clubs to an
Academy Player in age group Under 16 who has been informed by the Club holding
his registration that it will not offer to enter into a Scholarship Agreement with him;
any such trial or series of trials may not in the aggregate exceed six weeks;
250.6. a trial may not be offered or given to anyone:
250.6.1. who is on trial at another Academy; or
250.6.2. whose registration is held by another Club (or club) except with the
written consent of such Club (or club) or in the case of an Academy Player
who is exercising his entitlement under either Rule 274, Rule 275 or Rule
276 to seek registration as an Academy Player at the Academy of another
Club (or club).
Any question or dispute concerning the travelling time requirements in this Rule shall be
determined by the Board in its absolute discretion.
251.
If a Trialist attending an Academy is injured so that he cannot be coached or play football or
if the period of his trial is interrupted by any other occurrence, application may be made to
the Board in writing to extend the period of his trial, giving full reasons therefor, and the
Board shall have power to extend such period in such terms as it may think fit.
252.
If before the date upon which a Trialists trial period is due to end his trial is terminated, notice
to that effect shall be given to the League by sending to the Secretary PLYD Form 3 duly
completed.
377
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT RULES
250.1. a trial may be offered or given by a Club to anyone in age groups Under 9 to Under
11 inclusive who has his permanent residence within one hours travelling time of the
Clubs Academy;
TALENT IDENTIFICATION AND RECRUITMENT
253.
Upon a Trialist commencing a trial, the League shall provide to him and his Parent a copy of
these Rules and of the Parents Charter.
Pre-Registration Agreements
254.
Subject to the provisions of Art. 19 of the FIFA Regulations for the Status and Transfer of
Players, on or after 1st January in any Season a Club may enter into a pre-registration
agreement with a player who does not reside within one and a half hours travelling time of
its Academy provided that such a player is then:
254.1.
in his Under 16, Under 17 or Under 18 year; and
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT RULES
254.2. in Full Time Education; and
254.3. not registered with another Club or Football League club.
255.
A pre-registration agreement shall be in PLYD Form 4 and shall include an undertaking by the
Club to enter into a Scholarship Agreement with the player upon the Club having acquired
the players registration and
255.1. in the case of a player in his Under 16 year, on or after the last Friday in June in the
academic year in which the Academy Player reaches the age of 16; or
255.2. in the case of a player in his Under 17 or Under 18 year, upon his ceasing Full Time
Education.
Unless authorised in writing by the Board, a breach of such an undertaking will constitute a
breach of these Rules.
256.
Clubs shall submit to the Secretary copies of all pre-registration agreements within five days
of their being entered into.
257.
A written Coaching Curriculum shall be annexed to each pre-registration agreement and the
player shall not be coached by or at the Clubs Academy or participate in its matches, tours,
Festivals, Training Camps or Tournaments until the programme has been approved in writing
by the Board and then only to the extent set out in the programme.
Registrations
258.
Except for Trialists attending trials in accordance with Rule 243, and players attending
Development Centres and players with whom a Club has entered into a pre-registration
agreement in accordance with Rule 254, no player shall be coached by or at an Academy or
participate in matches, tours, Festivals, Training Camps or Tournaments in which the Club
operating that Academy is involved unless that Club holds his registration.
259.
Subject to Rule 260, players in age groups Under 9, Under 10, Under 11, Under 12, Under 14
and Under 16 shall be registered for one year and those in age groups Under 13 and Under 15
for two years.
260.
The registration of an Academy Player shall endure until the last Friday in June in the
academic year in which he reaches the age of 16 if:
260.1 he is engaged in the Full Time Training Model; or
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TALENT IDENTIFICATION AND RECRUITMENT
260.2 the Club has made an application to the Board to this end, having offered to engage
the Academy player on the Full Time Training Model and the Academy Player having
rejected this offer for sound educational reasons. In such a case the Board shall
enquire into the circumstances and satisfy itself as to the bona fides of the
application, and if so satisfied shall have the power to determine that the Academy
Players registration should so endure.
The registration of Academy Players will be undertaken by the League.
262.
Registrations of Academy Players undertaken by the Football League which are held by
Clubs promoted to the League shall be treated as having been undertaken by the League
provided all circumstances surrounding that registration comply with these Rules, failing
which the League shall be at liberty to reject that registration unless otherwise determined
by the Board.
263.
An application for the registration of an Academy Player at an Academy shall be made by
completing and submitting to the Secretary PLYD Form 5 signed on behalf of the Club by an
Authorised Signatory together with a copy of the Code of Conduct referred to in Rule 189.
264.
A Club shall request each Academy Player (or if he is a minor his Parent) to complete PLYD
Form 6 at the same time that he completes PLYD Form 5. If he does so the Club shall submit
the completed PLYD Form 6 to the Secretary at the same time that it submits PLYD Form 5.
265.
An application in PLYD Form 5 shall be refused if it is made in respect of a player with whom
a Club (or club), other than the applicant Club, has entered into a pre-registration agreement
which remains current.
266.
Except in the case of a Scholar, a player shall not be registered as an Academy Player unless
he is in Full Time Education.
267.
The Board may from time to time direct the minimum number of Academy Players to be
registered by each Club in each age group, and each Club shall comply with any such direction.
268.
The maximum numbers of Academy Players registrable by a Club at any one time are as
follows:
Age groups Under 9 to Under 14 inclusive:
30 in each age group
Age groups Under 15 and Under 16 inclusive:
20 in each age group
Age groups Under 17 to Under 21 inclusive:
15 in each age group
269.
No Club shall be permitted to register any Academy Player in the Under 9 age group before
the third Saturday in May immediately preceding his Under 9 year.
270.
A player in age groups Under 14 to Under 16 inclusive who resides more than one and a half
hours travelling time from the nearest Academy may be registered as an Academy Player at
the nearest Club which operates an Academy of the appropriate Category subject to the
following conditions:
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YOUTH DEVELOPMENT RULES
261.
TALENT IDENTIFICATION AND RECRUITMENT
270.1. an application for registration of an Academy Player under the provisions of this Rule
shall be accompanied by a written Coaching Curriculum which shall include full
particulars of any coaching the Academy Player will receive at or in the locality of his
place of residence;
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT RULES
270.2. the Coaching Curriculum shall be designed so as to ensure that it does not cause the
Academy Player to be absent from school;
270.3. in the case of an Academy Player registered under the provisions of this Rule at an
Academy, the Head of Education shall make enquiries of the Academy Players
school at least four times each Season during the currency of his registration so as to
satisfy himself that the Academy Players best interests are being served by the
Coaching Curriculum and that it is not adversely affecting his education; the result
of each enquiry shall be reported in writing to the Academy Manager who in the
event of an adverse report shall apply to the Board for the cancellation of the
Academy Players registration;
270.4. unless any other travelling arrangements have been submitted to and approved in
writing by or on behalf of the Board, on the occasion of each visit by the Academy
Player to the Academy at which he is registered he shall be accompanied on both the
outward and the return journey by his Parent.
271.
An application to register an Academy Player shall be refused if:
271.1. the Academy Player is in age groups Under 10, Under 11 or Under 12; and
271.2. the registration of that Academy Player was held by another Club or Football League
club (the former Club) within the period of 12 months prior to the making of the
application; and
271.3. the former Club had given notice to that Academy Player under the provisions of
Rules 273.1 or 273.2 that it intended to retain his registration; and
271.4. the Club making the application had within the said period of 12 months registered
two Academy Players in age groups Under 10, Under 11 or Under 12 whose
registrations had been held by the former Club;
unless the Club making the application and the former Club agree otherwise.
272.
380
On or before the third Saturday in May in every year each Club shall send to the Secretary a
list in PLYD Form 7 containing the names of each of the Academy Players whose registration
it then holds (other than those who have entered into a Scholarship Agreement whose
names are included in the list required by Rule U.32), indicating which it retains, which it
intends to retain and which it intends to terminate with effect from the first Saturday in June.
TALENT IDENTIFICATION AND RECRUITMENT
End of Season Procedure
273.
Except in the case of an Academy Player who has been offered and has accepted a Scholarship
Agreement in accordance with Rule 283:
273.1. on or before the third Saturday in May in every year in which his registration is held,
each Club shall give or send to each of its Academy Players in age groups Under 9 to
Under 11 PLYD Form 8 notifying him whether it intends to retain or to terminate his
registration with effect from the first Saturday in June;
274.
An Academy Player who receives notification under Rule 273.1 or Rule 273.2 of his Clubs
intention to terminate his registration shall be at liberty following receipt of such notification
to seek registration as an Academy Player at the Academy of any other Club (or club).
275.
An Academy Player who receives notification under Rule 273.1 or Rule 273.2 of his Clubs
intention to retain his registration shall likewise be at liberty after the first Saturday in June
to seek registration as an Academy Player at the Academy of any other Club (or club)
provided that:
275.1. by the first Saturday in June he has given written notice to his Club and the Secretary
terminating his registration; and
275.2. he has received the Secretarys written acknowledgement of the same.
276.
An Academy Player in age group Under 16 who has not received an offer to enter into a
Scholarship Agreement by 1 March shall thereafter be at liberty to seek registration as an
Academy Player at the Academy of any other Club (or club).
Termination of Registration
277.
Subject to Rule 278, the registration of an Academy Player who has not entered into a
Scholarship Agreement with a Club shall terminate upon the happening of the earliest of the
following events:
277.1. the Academy Player completing his Full Time Education; or
277.2. the receipt by the Secretary at any time of a mutual cancellation notification in PLYD
Form 10 duly completed and signed by the Academy Player and his Parent and on
behalf of the Club holding his registration; or
277.3. the receipt by the Secretary of the Academy Players notice duly given in accordance
with the provisions of Rule 275.1; or
277.4. the first Saturday in June following the receipt by the Secretary of PLYD Form 7 upon
which his Club has indicated its intention to terminate the Academy Players
registration; or
277.5. the expiry, surrender, suspension or revocation of the Academy licence of the Club
holding the registration.
381
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT RULES
273.2. on or before the third Saturday in May, each Club shall give or send to each of its
Academy Players in age groups Under 12 and Under 14 PLYD Form 9 notifying him
whether it intends to retain his registration for the next two seasons or to terminate
it with effect from the first Saturday in June.
TALENT IDENTIFICATION AND RECRUITMENT
278.
The Board shall have power at any time to cancel the registration of an Academy Player:
278.1. upon the written application of either:
278.1.1 the Academy Player or, if the Academy Player is a Child, his Parent on his
behalf (and one of the grounds, but not the only ground, on which such
an application may be made is that the categorisation of the Clubs
Academy has been lowered pursuant to Rule 26.3); or
278.1.2
the Club holding his registration; or
278.2 of its own volition in the circumstances set out in Rule 279.
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT RULES
279.
If the Board is not satisfied that a Club is complying with any one or more of the Rules
concerning the Hybrid or Full Time Training Model, or if it is of the view that the education of
an Academy Player engaged on the Hybrid or Full Time Training Model is being prejudiced as
a result of his engagement thereon (regardless of whether the Club is in compliance with
these Rules) it may, either of its own volition or on the written application of an Academy
Player who is affected thereby (or of his Parent on his behalf if he is a Child):
279.1 cancel the registration of the Academy Player; or
279.2 order that the Academy Player be deemed to be engaged on one of the other
Training Models.
280.
The Board will not exercise its powers set out in Rule 279 without having first given the Club,
the Academy Player and his Parent the opportunity to make representations to it.
281.
The Board shall determine such an application in such manner as it shall think fit and, in
particular, shall have power to appoint one or more suitably qualified persons to enquire into
all the circumstances of the application (adopting such procedures as are considered
appropriate) and to report to the Board, recommending whether the application should be
granted or refused. If the application is granted, the Board may impose conditions (e.g. as to
compensation) on the cancellation of the registration.
282.
Upon an Academy Players registration terminating by virtue of the provisions of Rule 277.2,
the Secretary shall provide him with a copy of PLYD Form 10 as evidence thereof.
Scholarships
283.
On or after 1 January in the year in which he attains the age of 14 years and in any event on
or before 1 March in his Under 16 year, a Club may offer to enter into a Scholarship Agreement
with an Academy Player whose registration it holds.
284.
Failure by a Club to honour any offer of a scholarship made pursuant to Rule 283 without
reasonable cause shall render that Club liable to disciplinary action pursuant to Section W of
the Leagues Rules.
285.
A Club may likewise offer to enter into a Scholarship Agreement with an Academy Player in
age group Under 16 who is seeking registration under the provisions of Rule 276.
382
TALENT IDENTIFICATION AND RECRUITMENT
286.
A club which operates a Category 4 Academy may only offer to enter into a Scholarship
Agreement with:
286.1 anyone who is not an Academy Player; or
286.2 an Academy Player in age group Under 16 who is seeking registration under the
provisions of Rule 276
but only on or after 1 January in his Under 16 Year.
Any offer made under the provisions of Rules 283 or 285 shall be in PLYD Form 11, a copy of
which shall be sent to the Secretary by the Club making the offer within five days of it being
made.
288.
An Academy Player receiving an offer in PLYD Form 11 shall respond thereto within 28 days
by completing and submitting to the Club making the offer PLYD Form 12, a copy of which
shall be sent to the Secretary by the Club within five days of receipt. An Academy Player who
does not accept the offer shall be at liberty after the first Saturday in June following his Under
16 year to seek registration at any other Club (or club).
289.
An Academy Player who fails to respond as required by Rule 288 shall be deemed to have not
accepted the offer.
290.
A Club may enter into a Scholarship Agreement with an Academy Player if:
290.1. it holds his registration; or
290.2. his registration is not held by another Club (or club); and
290.3. (except in the case of an Academy Player who has entered into a Scholarship
Agreement with another Club (or club) which has been cancelled by mutual
agreement) he is under the age of 18 years; and
290.4. the Scholarship Agreement commences no earlier than the last Friday in June in the
academic year in which the Academy Player reaches the age of 16.
291.
An Academy Player who enters into a Scholarship Agreement with a Club shall be:
291.1. entitled to receive such remuneration as shall be determined by the Board from time
to time; and
291.2. required to complete his Education Programme (as defined in PLYD Form 1).
292.
The registration of an Academy Player who enters into a Scholarship Agreement with a Club
shall be effected by completion of and submission to the Secretary of Football Association
Form G(4), signed on behalf of the Club by an Authorised Signatory, together with copies of
the Academy Players Scholarship Agreement and birth certificate.
383
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT RULES
287.
TALENT IDENTIFICATION AND RECRUITMENT
293.
If the parties to a Scholarship Agreement have agreed in writing that they will enter into a
contract of employment in Form 26 prior to or immediately upon the termination of the
Scholarship Agreement, and provided that the written agreement between them specifies
the length of the contract and full details of all the remuneration and benefits payable under
it, the Club shall not be obliged to complete and sign a mutual cancellation notification upon
the Academy Players application for cancellation of his registration pursuant to clause 13.1
of the Scholarship Agreement. If the Club chooses not to cancel the Academy Players
registration, the Academy Player shall remain registered with the Club and the Scholarship
Agreement shall remain in full force and effect.
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT RULES
Appeal against Termination
294.
An appeal by an Academy Player under the provisions of clause 10.3 or by a Club under the
provisions of clause 12.3 of PLYD Form 1 shall be commenced by notice in writing addressed
to the other party to the agreement and to the Secretary.
Appeal against Disciplinary Decision
295.
An appeal by an Academy Player under the provisions of paragraph 3.3.2 of the Schedule
to PLYD Form 1 shall be commenced by notice in writing addressed to the Club and to the
Secretary.
296.
Appeals pursuant to Rule 294 or Rule 295 shall be conducted in such manner as the Board
may determine.
297.
The Board may allow or dismiss any such appeal and make such other order as it thinks fit.
Order for Costs
298.
The Board shall have power to make an order for costs:
298.1. in determining appeals under Rule 294 or Rule 295; and
298.2. if any such appeal, having been commenced, is withdrawn.
299.
The Board shall have power to determine the amount of any such costs which may include,
without limitation, those incurred by the Company in the conduct of the appeal.
300.
Costs ordered to be paid as aforesaid shall be recoverable:
300.1. in the case of a Club, under the provisions of Rule E.27; or
300.2. in the case of an Academy Player, as a civil debt.
Further Appeal
301.
384
Within 14 days of a decision of the Board given under the provisions of Rule 297 either party
may by notice in writing appeal against such decision to the Premier League Appeals
Committee whose decision shall be final.
TALENT IDENTIFICATION AND RECRUITMENT
Approaches by and to Clubs and Inducements
302.
A Club shall not, either directly or indirectly, make any approach to or communicate with:
302.1. an Academy Player registered with another Club (or club); or
302.2. a player with whom another Club (or club) has entered into a pre-registration
agreement which remains current.
A public statement made by an Official of or Agent for a Club expressing interest in an
Academy Player whose registration is held by another Club (or club) or a player with whom
another Club (or club) has entered into a pre-registration agreement which remains current
shall be deemed for the purpose of Rule 302 to be an indirect approach in breach of that Rule.
304.
Except as permitted by Rules 274 and 275, an Academy Player whose registration is held by
a Club shall not, either directly or indirectly, make any approach to another Club (or club).
305.
Except that a Club may, not earlier than 1 January next following the commencement of his
Under 16 year, offer an Academy Player a contract as a Contract Player upon his attaining the
age of 17 years and subject to Rules 254 and 283:
305.1. no Club shall induce or attempt to induce a player to become registered as an
Academy Player by that Club by offering him, or any person connected with him,
either directly or indirectly, a benefit or payment of any description whether in cash
or in kind;
305.2. no Club shall likewise induce or attempt to induce an Academy Player to enter into a
Scholarship Agreement and in particular no Club shall pay or offer to pay to an
Academy Player upon his entering into a Scholarship Agreement remuneration in
excess of the remuneration referred to in Rule 291.1;
305.3. no Academy Player shall, either directly or indirectly, accept any such inducement.
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303.
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT RULES
FACILITIES
Facilities
306.
Each Club which operates an Academy shall ensure that:
306.1. it provides as a minimum the facilities and accommodation set out in Rules 308 to
319; and
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT RULES
306.2. if it operates a Category 1 Academy, such facilities and accommodation are available
for the exclusive use of its Academy at all times when it requires access to them in
order to comply with these Rules.
307.
Save where otherwise indicated, or with the permission of the Board, the facilities and
accommodation set out in Rules 308 to 319 shall be provided at the Clubs principal venue
for the coaching and education of Academy Players.
308.
Grass pitches
Category 1
a) A sufficient number of grass pitches of the appropriate sizes (as required by
the Rules relating to Games Programmes and with goals sized as required by
the Rules relating to Games Programmes) to enable the Club to play all its
matches in the Games Programmes and fulfil its commitments under these
Rules as regards coaching.
b) One floodlit grass pitch enclosed with perimeter fencing and with
designated areas for spectator attendance (save that if a Club is unable to
obtain planning permission for floodlighting then the requirement for
floodlighting shall be waived);
c) A designated area (on grass) for the coaching of goalkeepers.
Category 2 and 3
a) A sufficient number of grass pitches of the appropriate sizes (as required by
the Rules relating to Games Programmes and with goals sized as required by
the Rules relating to Games Programmes) to enable the Club to play all its
matches in the Games Programmes and fulfil its commitments under these
Rules as regards coaching.
b) A designated area for the coaching of goalkeepers.
Category 4
a) A sufficient number of grass pitches of the appropriate sizes (as required by
the Rules relating to Games Programmes and with goals sized as required by
the Rules relating to Games Programmes) to enable the Club to play all its
matches in the Games Programmes and fulfil its commitments under these
Rules as regards coaching.
b) A designated area (on grass) for the coaching of goalkeepers.
309.
Each Club shall take all reasonable steps to maintain each grass pitch used by its Academy at
all times when such pitches are required by the Academy for matches or coaching.
310.
The League shall inspect the Academy grass pitches of each Club which operates a Category
1 or Category 2 Academy at least twice a year, and of each Club which operates a Category 3
Academy from time to time.
311.
Each Club shall take such steps as the Board may require if the Board is not satisfied that a
pitch is being maintained to an adequate standard.
312.
Without prejudice to the generality of Rule 309, each Club shall ensure that the quality of its
pitches used for matches in the Games Programme is not adversely affected by coaching
taking place on them.
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FACILITIES
Guidance
Because of Rule 312, Clubs may need to have a greater number of pitches than the bare minimum necessary to fulfil
matches in the Games Programme.
313.
Categories 1 and 2
One floodlit outdoor Artificial Surface pitch (save that if a Club is unable to
obtain planning permission for floodlighting then the requirement for
floodlighting shall be waived). It is recommended and mandatory with effect
from 1 July 2016 that this pitch complies with Rule K.15.
Categories 3 and 4
Access to one floodlit outdoor Artificial Surface pitch (which need not be at the
principal venue).
Indoor area for training and the playing of matches
Note: ideally a Clubs indoor facility should be located at its principal venue for the coaching of
Academy Players and any new facility must be located at the principal venue. It is accepted,
however, that a number of Clubs have existing indoor facilities which are located elsewhere, or
that it may be impossible for a Clubs indoor facility to be located at its principal venue for
planning reasons. In such cases, where the Board is satisfied that the Clubs indoor facility may
be located other than at its principal venue, there shall also be a requirement that the Rules
relating to the maximum travel time from an Academy Players residence to the coaching venue
are complied with.
Categories 1 and 2
One indoor Artificial Surface pitch measuring a minimum of 60 yards by 40
yards which shall be owned by the Club (or alternatively the Club must have a
legally enforceable agreement with the owner of the facility for its use by the
Club, expiring not earlier than the end of the current Season) and which shall be
for the exclusive use of the Academy at all times. (Note: an indoor pitch which
complies with the size requirements set out in Rule K.15 is recommended).
Categories 3 and 4
Access to one indoor Artificial Surface pitch measuring 60 yards by 40 yards
during the months of November to April. Alternatively, the pitch may measure
30 yards by 20 yards but if so the Club shall only be permitted to coach the
following maximum numbers of Academy Players at any one time:
Age groups Under 9 to Under 14 inclusive:
18 in each age group
Age groups Under 15 and Under 16 inclusive:
15 in each age group
Age groups Under 17 to Under 21 inclusive:
12 in each age group
Guidance
The Premier League and Football League are consulting on the requirements for Category 3 Clubs indoor facilities to have
an Artificial Surface.
387
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT RULES
314.
Artificial Surface pitch
FACILITIES
315.
Changing rooms and washing facilities
Categories 1 to 4
a) suitably-sized changing rooms equal in number to the number of teams
(including visiting teams) playing at the Academy at any one time so that
each such team has exclusive use of a changing room;
b) a sufficient number of washing and toilet facilities, of a suitable quality, for
the exclusive use of all registered Academy Players;
c) a sufficient number of separate washing and toilet facilities, of a suitable
quality, for the use of visiting teams;
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT RULES
d) a sufficient number of separate changing rooms and washing and toilet
facilities, of a suitable quality, for the exclusive use of Match Officials (with
separate male and female facilities);
e) (in the case of Category 1 and Category 2 Academies only) a sufficient
number of changing rooms and washing and toilet facilities, of a suitable
quality, for the exclusive use of therapists and coaches employed at the
Academy and other relevant Academy Staff;
Guidance
Portacabins remain acceptable as dressing rooms until 1 December 2017. Any structural work required to achieve
Category 1 status will need to be completed by no later than 1 December 2017.
Sufficient and suitable facilities must be provided at all venues. Thus, if a Category 3 or Category 4 Academy utilises an
Artificial Surface pitch or an indoor pitch which is located away from its principal venue, it must ensure that there is
substantial compliance with this Rule 315 with regard to changing room and washing facilities.
A changing room may not be used as any of the other rooms (e.g. team meeting room) required by these Rules.
316.
Team meeting room
Categories 1 to 4
A dedicated room large enough to hold 20 people and equipped with individual
desks (one per person), audio/visual projection equipment and a large screen,
internet access and computers.
Guidance
In Category 3 and 4 Academies, this room:
a) need not be located at the principal venue; but
b) if it is so located (but not otherwise), may also be used as the guest lounge described in Rule 317.
317.
Guest lounge
Categories 1 to 4
A guest lounge for the use of Parents at each training session and match that is
open to Parents. The guest lounge shall be large enough to hold 50 people and
have access to refreshments and toilet facilities.
Note: in Category 3 and 4 Academies, this room may also be used as the team
meeting room described in Rule 316 provided that it is large enough.
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FACILITIES
318.
Match analysis suite
Categories 1 and 2
A room large enough to hold 20 people and equipped with such appropriate
video and IT technology as is necessary to undertake, and present the results of,
Performance Analysis.
If the facility is shared with the professional squad, access for the Academy
sufficient for its purposes needs to be clearly demonstrated.
Category 3
319.
A match analysis suite is recommended but not mandatory.
Medical facilities
Guidance
Each club should carefully consider provision of facilities suitable for the medical practice undertaken at each venue. In
general, a medical consulting room should be not less than 16 square metres and should be larger if it includes a separate
area for the examination couch.
There should be provision for:
Privacy sufficient to ensure confidentiality of consultation;
Desk, examination couch and equipment to facilitate medical examinations to include:
Thermometer;
Sphygmomanometer;
Otoscope and ophthalmoscope;
Stethoscope;
Electronic or paper medical records in secure format;
Secure/lockable filing system;
Secure/lockable storage for any medicines;
Sufficient provisions for all aspects of medical treatment to be undertaken including:
Protocols and equipment for the provision of Basic Life Support and if not provided elsewhere;
Protocols and equipment sufficient for Advanced Trauma and Life Support;
Basin with hot and cold water, provision of hand cleansers, clinical taps, hand drying facilities and all necessary provision
for effective infection control procedures;
Provision of space and seating for person accompanying examinee;
Flooring and fittings of materials which can be cleaned to meet infection control standards;
Telephone.
320.
Administration office space
Categories 1 to 4
a) Such office space and access to IT, email and the internet as each member of
Academy Staff requires in order to perform the responsibilities set out in his
job description;
b) A private meeting room.
389
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT RULES
Such medical facilities as the Club requires to deliver its Sports Science and Medicine
Programme.
FACILITIES
Guidance
For Category 3 and Category 4 Academies, these can be provided at a place other than the principal venue (e.g. at the
Clubs stadium).
321.
Academy Player accommodation
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT RULES
Categories 1 to 4
Sufficient and adequate accommodation for all registered Academy Players and
Trialists under the age of 18 not residing with their Parents. Clubs shall comply
with any guidelines about Academy Player accommodation published by the
League from time to time and with all applicable legal requirements in relation
to the provision of such accommodation.
Such accommodation shall be located in as close proximity as is reasonably
practicable to the Clubs principal venue for the coaching and education of
Academy Players and to the place at which Academy Players undertake their
education (if this is not the principal venue).
Guidance
Clubs may provide such accommodation by lodging students with private households (subject to compliance with all
applicable legal requirements including as to DBS checks) or by operating their own dedicated facilities (such as hostels).
322.
Academy Player accommodation
Category 1
A minimum of three classrooms which shall each:
contain sufficient desks for 20 students;
contain 20 computers with access to the internet;
conform in all respects with any requirements for classrooms issued by the
Department for Education.
Category 2
A minimum of two classrooms which shall each:
contain sufficient desks for 20 students;
contain 20 computers with internet access.
At least one of the classrooms must conform in all respects with any
requirements for classrooms issued by the Department for Education.
Categories 3 and 4
Access for Academy Players and Trialists to a study area large enough to hold 20
people and which contains at least 20 computers with internet access.
Guidance
In Category 3 and 4 Academies, this may also be used as the team meeting room provided that the timetabling of lessons
in the classrooms allows.
Flexibility will be accorded to a Clubs provision of classrooms depending on the number of Academy Players that are
engaged in each Training Model.
Clubs which operate a Category 3 or Category 4 Academy who have in place an artificial pitch which does not meet the
requirements of such a pitch as defined in Rule 1.10 may continue to use such a pitch until the end of its natural life.
Thereafter however, they must use a pitch which complies with the definition.
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FACILITIES
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT RULES
391
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT RULES
FINANCE
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT RULES
Finance
323.
Each Club which operates an Academy shall by 1 July in each year submit to the League its
budgeted Academy Financial Information for its Academy for the following Season.
324.
Each Club which operates an Academy shall by 1 September in each year submit to the
League its actual Academy Financial Information for its Academy for the previous Season
together with the budgeted Academy Financial Information for that Season.
325.
The Academy Financial Information required by Rule 323 shall be submitted in the format
required by the League.
326.
The League may, at its discretion, require (and the Club shall deliver), such further information
and explanations as it deems fit in connection with the Academy Financial Information
submitted by the Club pursuant to Rules 323 and 325.
327.
The League shall have the power to obtain an independent audit of a Clubs Academy
Financial Information submitted pursuant to these Rules.
328.
Each Clubs Academy Financial Information shall be assessed by the Board in order to
determine whether to award to the Club a grant from the Professional Youth Game Fund.
Guidance
The League will produce benchmarked Club by Club information (on an anonymised basis) with regards to expenditure on
youth development on an annual basis.
The League will keep the Academy Financial Information provided to it pursuant to Rules 323 and 325 confidential save
that:
1. the League may disclose the Information if properly required to do so by law or by any regulatory authority;
2. t he League may disclose the Information to the ISO or the PGB (and if it does so, the League shall use all reasonable
endeavours to ensure that the ISO or PGB keeps the Information confidential);
3. t he League may disclose the Information to any person or entity retained to undertake an audit of a Clubs Academy
Financial Information pursuant to Rule 327 (and if it does so, the League shall use all reasonable endeavours to ensure
that the person or entity so retained keeps the Information confidential); and
4. the League may use the Information to develop and publish benchmarked information on an anonymised basis.
392
FINANCE
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT RULES
393
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT RULES
COMPENSATION
Compensation
329.
The registration of an Academy Player at an Academy shall impose an obligation on the
applicant Club or Football League club (the Applicant Club) to pay compensation for the
training and development of that Academy Player to any Club or Football League club which
previously held his registration (the Training Club) provided that:
329.1. the Training Club had indicated in PLYD Form 7 (or, in the case of a Football League
club, the equivalent Football League form) its intention to retain the Academy
Players registration; or
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT RULES
329.2. the Training Club had offered to enter into a Scholarship Agreement pursuant to
Rule 283 with the Academy Player; or
329.3. the Academy Player sought registration at the Applicant Club because he had
moved residence outside the permitted travelling time from his last Training Club; or
329.4. the Training Club and Academy Player mutually agreed to terminate the Academy
Players registration pursuant to Rule 277.2 and agreed that the Training Club should
retain the right to receive compensation should the Academy Player sign for another
Club (or club); or
329.5. the Board has made a determination to that effect pursuant to Rule 281; and
329.6. in all the above cases, the Training Club held a valid licence to operate an Academy
in accordance with these Rules (or to operate a Football Academy or Centre of
Excellence in accordance with the Rules pertaining to youth development which
these Rules replaced).
330.
The amount of compensation referred to in Rule 329 shall be:
330.1. such sum as shall be due pursuant to this section of the Rules; or
330.2. as regards the compensation payable by the Applicant Club to the most recent
Training Club, such sum as shall have been agreed between them.
331.
Rules 333 to 343 govern the compensation due in respect of an Academy Player who is in, or
about to enter, any age group between Under 9 and Under 16 at the time when he is first
registered with the Applicant Club save for an Academy Player to whom Rule 332.2 applies.
332.
In default of agreement between the Applicant Club and the Academy Players most recent
Training Club, the Professional Football Compensation Committee shall determine the
compensation payable to the latter in respect of an Academy Player:
332.1. who is in any age group between Under 17 and Under 21 when he is registered for the
Applicant Club; or
332.2. to whom the Training Club made an offer of a Scholarship Agreement pursuant to
Rule 283.
333.
394
The compensation due in respect of an Academy Player to whom Rule 331 applies shall
consist of an initial fee payable to the most recent Training Club (and to be paid within seven
days of the Academy Player being registered for the Applicant Club) and, if the Academy
Player is in age group Under 12 or older, contingent compensation payable to all qualifying
Training Clubs in accordance with these Rules.
COMPENSATION
334.
The initial fee referred to in Rule 333 shall be calculated by:
334.1. multiplying the applicable annual fixed fee (or fees) calculated in accordance with
Rule 335 by the applicable number of years; and
334.2. adding thereto any initial fee (capped at such sum as would have been payable when
calculated in accordance with this section of the Rules) paid by the most recent
Training Club when it acquired the registration of the Academy Player.
335.
In Rule 334:
335.1. the applicable annual fixed fee means the fee set out in the table in Rule 336
referable to:
335.1.2. the Category of the Training Clubs Academy during that year; and
335.2. the applicable number of years means the number of years for which the Academy
Player was registered for the Training Club (subject to Rule 342).
Guidance
There may be two applicable fixed fees. For example, if an Academy Player was registered with a Category 2 Training
Club from the age of Under 9 to Under 16, then the applicable fixed fee is 3,000 for each of his initial three years of
development (totalling 9,000) and 25,000 for each of the five subsequent years (totalling 125,000) making a total
initial fee of 134,000.
336.
The applicable annual fixed fees by reference to the age group of the Academy Player and the
Category of Academy are as follows:
Age group of the
Academy Player
Category of the Academy of
the Training Club at the
relevant time
Applicable Annual Fixed Fee
Under 9 to Under 11
All Categories
3,000
Under 12 to Under 16
Category 1
40,000
Under 12 to Under 16
Category 2
25,000
Under 12 to Under 16
Category 3
12,500
Guidance
In order to give effect to the compensation Rules under the EPPP, Clubs previous Football Academies and Centres of
Excellence will have a deemed, retrospective categorisation to give effect to the provisions for fixed fee compensation
in respect of the years up until the coming into force of the Rules. The following applies:
395
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT RULES
335.1.1. the age group of the Academy Player during any year that he was
registered with the Training Club; and
COMPENSATION
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT RULES
Status
Deemed retrospective Category for the purposes of
calculating compensation (in respect of the period up until
the end of Season 2011/12)
Club operated a licensed Football Academy which
is placed into Category 1 under the new Rules (all
Category 1 Clubs will be the subject of an ISO
audit by no later than 31 May 2012)
Category 1
Club operated a licensed Football Academy which
is not placed into Category 1 under the new Rules.
Category 2
Club operated a licensed Centre of Excellence
Category 3
337.
The contingent compensation referred to in Rule 333 shall consist of:
337.1. appearance fees calculated by reference to the number of First Team Appearances
(up to a maximum of 100) made by the Academy Player for the Applicant Club or
any other Club or Football League club for whom the Academy Player subsequently
becomes registered (including by way of a Temporary Transfer or other loan) and to
the divisional status of the relevant Club as set out in the table in Rule 338;
337.2. if the Academy Players registration is transferred prior to his twenty-third birthday
to a club affiliated to a national association other than the Football Association (save
for any Welsh club which is a member of the League, the Football League or the
Premier Division of the Football Conference), 20% of any Compensation Fee, Loan
Fee and Contingent Sum that the Applicant Club receives which is in excess of:
337.2.1. any amounts of training compensation and/or solidarity payment paid to
the Applicant Club and the Training Club pursuant to the FIFA Regulations
for the Status and Transfer of Players; and
337.2.2. the actual sum (if any) paid by the Applicant Club to the Training Club to
acquire the Academy Players registration;
337.3. 5% of all Compensation Fees, Loan Fees and Contingent Sums paid in respect of:
337.3.1. all future transfers of the Academy Players registration to Clubs (or
clubs) in membership of the League, the Football League or the Premier
Division of the Football Conference; and
337.3.2. all future transfers on loan to a club affiliated to a national association
other than the Football Association (save for any Welsh club which is a
member of the League, the Football League or the Premier Division of the
Football Conference).
Guidance
Clubs will be obliged to pay contingent compensation as it falls due in accordance with Rule V.36 (payment within seven
days of the triggering event).
396
COMPENSATION
338.
The appearance fees referred to in Rule 337.1 are as follows:
Divisional Status of the Club
Number of
First Team
Appearances
Football
League
Championship
Club
Football
League 1 Club
Football
League 2 Club
10
150,000
25,000
10,000
5,000
20
150,000
25,000
10,000
5,000
30
150,000
25,000
10,000
5,000
40
150,000
25,000
10,000
5,000
50
150,000
25,000
10,000
5,000
60
150,000
25,000
10,000
5,000
70
100,000
25,000
10,000
5,000
80
100,000
25,000
10,000
5,000
90
100,000
25,000
10,000
5,000
100
100,000
25,000
10,000
5,000
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT RULES
339.
Premier
League Club
In Rule 337:
339.1. First Team Appearance means an appearance either in the starting eleven or as a
playing substitute in a first team fixture in the Premier League, the Football League
Championship and Football Leagues 1 and 2 (including play-offs), the Football
League Cup, the FA Cup, the Football League Trophy, the UEFA Europa League or the
UEFA Champions League;
339.2. in the event that the Academy Players registration at a Club (or Football League
club) is terminated (whether by efluxion of time, cancellation, transfer or otherwise)
prior to his having made sufficient appearances to trigger one of the payments set
out in Rule 338, that Club (or Football League club) shall pay a pro rata amount to
the relevant Training Club(s) and the obligation to pay future sums pursuant to that
Rule shall transfer to any new Club (or Football League club) for whom the Academy
Player subsequently becomes registered; and
339.3. Compensation Fee, Loan Fee and Contingent Sum shall be interpreted to
exclude compensation payable pursuant to Rule 329.
340.
Reference in Rules 337 and 339 to the transfer or termination of an Academy Players
registration shall be interpreted to include transfers or terminations of his registration after
he has ceased to be an Academy Player and Clubs who subsequently sign the Academy
Player shall be bound to comply with Rules 337.1 and 337.3 and for the avoidance of doubt
the original Applicant Club shall not be liable to the Training Club in respect of:
397
COMPENSATION
340.1. any appearance fees payable pursuant to Rule 337.1 and due in respect of
appearances made by the Academy Player after he has ceased to be permanently
registered for the Applicant Club;
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT RULES
340.2. sums payable pursuant to Rule 337.2 and 337.3 arising from transfers in respect of
which the Applicant Club was not the Transferor Club.
341.
Any agreement between a Club and another Club (or club) as to the compensation payable
on the transfer of a registration, whether pursuant to Rule 330.2 or otherwise, may not take
effect so as to vary the contingent compensation payable pursuant to this section of the
Rules to any other Club (or Football League club).
342.
If an Academy Player has spent part only of any year at the Training Club, the amount of
compensation in respect of that year shall be calculated pro rata (taking into account
whether or not the Training Clubs Academy was operational or not during the Close Season
or any part of it).
343.
If the Academy Player has been registered for a Training Club for part only of the period
between the start of his Under 12 year to the conclusion of his Under 16 year, the amount of
contingent compensation payable to that Training Club calculated in accordance with these
Rules shall be paid pro rata to the Training Club.
Guidance
Rule 343 covers the following situations:
1. Where an Academy Player has been registered for only one Training Club but not for the entirety of the period from
the start of his Under 12 year to the conclusion of his Under 16 year; and
2. Where the Academy Player has been registered for more than one Training Club during the period.
In either case, the Training Club(s) receive(s) contingent compensation pro rata to the period that it/they held the
Academy Players registration.
344.
The compensation set by the Professional Football Compensation Committee in respect of
an Academy Player to whom Rule 332 applies shall be determined in accordance with the
Committees Regulations.
345.
The new registration of a Contract Player under Rule U.17 shall impose an obligation on the
Club next holding his registration to pay to the former Club (or club) compensation for the
training and development of that Player if the Club (or club):
345.1. had held that Players registration as an Academy Player;
345.2. had offered to enter into a Scholarship Agreement with him which offer he had not
accepted; or
345.3. had entered into a Scholarship Agreement with him; and either
345.3.1. the Scholarship Agreement had been terminated at the Players request;
or
345.3.2. in accordance with the terms thereof the former Club (or club) had
offered him a contract as a Contract Player which offer he had not
accepted.
398
COMPENSATION
346.
The amount of compensation payable pursuant to Rule 345 shall be:
346.1. such sum as shall have been agreed between the applicant Club (or club) and the
former Club; or
346.2. such sum as the Professional Football Compensation Committee on the application
of either Club (or club) shall determine pursuant to Rule 344.
Any agreement between Clubs or between a Club and a Football League club as to the
amount of compensation payable shall be in writing, and a copy provided to the League
within 5 days of being entered into.
348.
All compensation (including instalments thereof and contingent sums) payable to a Club or
Football League club shall be paid by the Applicant Club into the Compensation Fee Account.
Guidance
The fixed fees set out in Rules 336 and 338 are to be revised annually by the PGB.
T he Regulations of the Professional Football Compensation Committee referred to in Rule 344 are in Appendix 12 to
Premier League Rules. They remain unchanged as regards the calculation of compensation for:
Academy Players in the Under 18 and older age groups;
an Academy Player with whom the Training Club had agreed to enter into a Scholarship Agreement; and
an Academy Player with whom the Applicant Club enters into a Scholarship Agreement.
399
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT RULES
347.
400
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT RULES
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT FORMS
YOUTH
DEVELOPMENT
FORMS
PREMIER LEAGUE AND THE FOOTBALL LEAGUE
PLYD Form 1
SCHOLARSHIP AGREEMENT
AN AGREEMENT made the (day)
day of (month and year)
Between (club company name)
whose registered office is at
(address)
(hereinafter called the Club) of the one part and
(Scholars full name)
of (address)
(hereinafter called the Scholar) of the other part
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT FORMS
WHEREBY it is agreed as follows:
1.
Definitions and Interpretation
1.1 The words and phrases below shall have the following meanings:
Authorised Games shall have the meaning set out in the League Rules;
the Board shall mean the board of directors of the Club for the time being or any duly
authorised committee of such board of directors;
the Club Rules shall mean the rules or regulations affecting the Scholar from time to time
in force and published by the Club;
Contract Player shall mean any player (other than a Academy Player or Scholar or Youth
Player) who has entered into a written contract of employment with a Club as defined by the
League Rules;
Education Programme shall mean the programme of education provided by the Club
being either the advanced apprenticeship framework for sporting excellence (AASE) or any
other programme of education approved in writing by the League in conjunction with
the PFA;
the FA shall mean The Football Association Limited;
the FA Rules shall mean the rules and regulations from time to time in force of the FA;
Football Development Programme shall mean the programme of football training
provided by the Club including the Scholars participation in Authorised Games;
Gross Misconduct shall mean serious or persistent conduct, behaviour, activity or
omission by the Scholar involving one or more of the following:
(a) theft or fraud;
(b) deliberate and serious damage to the Clubs property;
(c) use or possession of or trafficking in a Prohibited Substance;
(d) incapacity through alcohol affecting the Scholars performance as a player;
(e) breach of or failure to comply with any of the terms of this agreement;
or such other similar or equivalent serious or persistent conduct, behaviour, activity or
omission by the Scholar which the Board reasonably considers to amount to gross misconduct;
the League shall mean the football league of which the Club is a member from time
to time;
the League Rules shall mean the rules or regulations from time to time in force of
the League;
402
SCHOLARSHIP AGREEMENT
PLYD Form 1
National Minimum Wage means the National Minimum Wage as determined by the Low
Pay Commission from time to time;
Parent means a person who has parental responsibility for the Scholar;
PFA shall mean the Professional Footballers Association;
Player shall have the meaning set out in the League Rules;
Prohibited Substance shall have the meaning set out in the FA Rules;
the Rules shall mean the FA Rules, the League Rules and the Club Rules.
1.2 For the purpose of this agreement and provided the context so permits, the singular shall
include the plural and vice versa and any gender includes any other gender.
2.
Purpose
2.1 The purpose of this agreement is to provide the Scholars with a period of work-based learning
in preparation for a possible future career as a professional association football player.
Duration
3.1 Subject as hereinafter provided, this agreement shall remain in force from the date set out in
Schedule One for two years.
3.2 If during the currency of this agreement the Club wishes to offer the Scholar a contract as a
Contract Player it may only do so on the condition that the Scholar continues his Education
Programme.
4. Extension of Agreement
4.1 If by reason of illness or injury the Scholar is prevented from participating in the Football
Development Programme for a period in excess of five weeks (hereafter the excess period):
4.1.1 the duration of this agreement shall be extended by the length of the excess period or,
if earlier, until the Scholars nineteenth birthday; and
4.1.2 within fourteen days of the end of the excess period the Club shall give written notice
to the League and to the FA indicating the date to which the duration of the agreement
is extended.
4.2 The Club shall be entitled to extend the duration of this agreement by one year by giving to
the Scholar written notice to that effect on or before the third Saturday in May in the second
year of the agreement and a copy of any such notice shall be sent to the League and to the FA
within fourteen days of the date on which it was given.
5.
Obligations of the Scholar
5.1 The Scholar agrees:
5.1.1 to participate in the Football Development Programme and the Education Programme;
5.1.2 when directed by an authorised official of the Club to:
5.1.2.1 attend at any reasonable place for the purposes of and to participate in
training and match preparation;
5.1.2.2 play in any Authorised Games in which he is selected to play for the Club;
5.1.2.3 attend other matches in which the Club is engaged;
403
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT FORMS
3.
SCHOLARSHIP AGREEMENT
PLYD Form 1
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT FORMS
5.1.3 to train and play to the best of his skill and ability at all times;
5.1.4 except to the extent prevented by injury or illness, to maintain a high standard of
physical fitness at all times;
5.1.5 to observe the Laws of the Game when playing football;
5.1.6 to observe the Rules but in the case of the Club Rules to the extent only that they do
not conflict with or seek to vary the express terms of this agreement;
5.1.7 that he has given all necessary authorities for the release to the Club of his medical
records and will continue to make the same available as requested by the Club from
time to time during the continuance of this agreement;
5.1.8 to submit promptly to such medical and dental examinations as the Club may
reasonably require and undergo such treatment as may be prescribed by the medical
or dental advisers of the Club and/or the Clubs insurers;
5.1.9 to permit the Club to photograph him individually or as a member of a squad of
players and staff of the Club provided that such photographs are for use as the official
photographs of the Club;
5.1.10 to comply with and act in accordance with all lawful instructions of any authorised
official of the Club.
5.2 Subject to Clause 5.3.4 below, the Scholar may contribute to the media in a responsible
manner but whenever circumstances permit the Scholar shall give to the Club reasonable
notice of his intention to make any contribution to the public media in order to allow
representations to be made to him on behalf of the Club if it so desires.
5.3 The Scholar shall not:
5.3.1 reside at any place which the Club reasonably deems unsuitable for the performance
of his obligations under this agreement;
5.3.2 undertake or be engaged in any employment or be engaged or involved in any trade,
business or occupation;
5.3.3 indulge in any activity or practice which might endanger his fitness or inhibit his
mental or physical ability to train or play or which might cause to be void or voidable
any policy of insurance provided for the Scholar by the Club in compliance with
the Rules;
5.3.4 knowingly or recklessly do, write or say anything which is likely to bring the Club or the
game of football into disrepute.
6. Obligations of the Club
The Club shall:
6.1 provide the Football Development Programme and the Education Programme;
6.2 observe the Rules, save that the FA Rules and League Rules shall take precedence over the
Club Rules;
6.3 pay to the Scholar throughout the duration of this agreement (and during agreed holiday
periods) the remuneration which by virtue of the League Rules he is entitled to receive as
more particularly set out in Schedule One. Such remuneration shall not be less than the
National Minimum Wage and shall not exceed any maximum amount specified pursuant to
the League Rules;
6.4 provide the Scholar each year with copies of all the Rules which affect the Scholar and the
terms and conditions of the policy of insurance referred to in clause 5.3.3;
404
SCHOLARSHIP AGREEMENT
PLYD Form 1
6.5 arrange promptly such medical and dental examinations and treatment as may be prescribed
by the medical or dental advisors of the Club in respect of any injury to or illness of the
Scholar and shall ensure that any such treatment for any football related injury is undertaken
and completed without expense to the Scholar notwithstanding that this agreement expires
after such treatment is prescribed;
6.6 comply with all relevant statutory provisions relating to industrial injury and any regulations
made pursuant thereto; and
6.7 on or before the third Saturday in May in the final year of this agreement give written notice
to the Scholar indicating whether or not upon the expiry of this agreement it intends offering
to the Scholar a professional contract as a Contract Player and if so setting out the terms
thereof, which offer shall remain open and capable of acceptance by the Scholar for a period
of one month from the date upon which the Club gave it to him.
7.
Illness and Injury
8. Permanent Incapacity
8.1 In the event that the Scholar shall be permanently incapacitated the Club shall be entitled to
serve a notice upon the Scholar terminating this agreement;
8.2 the minimum length of such notice shall be three months;
8.3 the notice may be served at any time after: 8.3.1 the Scholar is declared to suffer from Permanent Total Disablement as defined in the
Leagues personal accident insurance scheme; or
8.3.2 an appropriately qualified independent medical consultant (the identity of whom
shall be agreed between the Club and the Scholar, each acting reasonably, save that in
the event that the parties are unable to agree, such individual as shall be appointed by
the President or next available officer of the Royal College of Surgeons) certifies that
the Scholar has suffered permanent incapacity.
9.
Disciplinary Procedure
9.1 The Club shall operate the disciplinary procedure set out in Schedule Two hereto in relation
to any allegation that there has been a breach of or failure to observe the terms of this
agreement or the Rules.
10. Termination by the Club
10.1 The Club shall be entitled to terminate this agreement by fourteen days notice in writing to
the Scholar if after due investigation and enquiry it is reasonably satisfied that he: 10.1.1 shall be guilty of Gross Misconduct; or
10.1.2 has failed to heed any final written warning given under the provisions of Schedule
Two hereto; or
10.1.3 is convicted of any criminal offence where the punishment consists of an immediate
custodial sentence of or exceeding three months.
10.2 There shall be included in any such notice full particulars of the Clubs reasons for terminating
the agreement and a copy of it shall be sent to the League, the FA and the PFA.
405
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT FORMS
7.1 Any injury to or illness of the Scholar shall be reported by him or on his behalf to the Club
immediately and the Club shall keep a record of such illness or injury.
SCHOLARSHIP AGREEMENT
PLYD Form 1
10.3 Within seven days of receiving a termination notice the Scholar by written notice served on
the Club and the League may appeal against the decision of the Club to the League in
accordance with the League Rules and the parties shall seek to ensure that such appeal shall
be heard within a further 28 days.
10.4 If the Scholar exercises his right of appeal the termination of this agreement shall not become
effective unless and until it shall have been determined that the Club was entitled to
terminate the agreement pursuant to clause 10.1. Pending such determination the Club may
suspend the Scholar.
10.5 Any such termination shall be subject to the rights of the parties provided for in the League Rules.
11. Grievance Procedure
11.1 In the event of any grievance in connection with his education under this agreement and/or its
operation the following procedures shall be available to the Scholar in the order set out: -
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT FORMS
11.1.1 the grievance shall in the first instance be brought informally to the notice of such
person as the Club identifies as the person dealing with grievances, failing which to
any member of the Clubs youth management;
11.1.2 if the grievance is not settled to the Scholars satisfaction within 14 days thereafter
formal notice of the grievance may be given in writing to the Secretary of the Club
requiring it to be considered by the Board. The matter shall thereupon be dealt with
by the Board at its next convenient meeting and in any event within 4 weeks of receipt
of the notice;
11.1.3 if the grievance is not settled by the Club to the Scholars satisfaction the Scholar shall
have a right of appeal to the League exercisable within 7 days of receipt by the Scholar
of written notice of the decision of the Board by notice in writing to the Club and the
League and such appeal shall be determined in accordance with the League Rules.
12. Termination by the Scholar
12.1 The Scholar shall be entitled to terminate this agreement by fourteen days notice in writing
to the Club if the Club shall be guilty of serious or persistent breach of the terms and
conditions of this agreement.
12.2 There shall be included in any such notice full particulars of the Scholars reasons for
terminating the agreement and a copy of it shall be sent to the League, the FA and the PFA.
12.3 Within seven days of receiving a termination notice the Club by written notice served on the
Scholar and the League may appeal against the termination and the appeal shall be
determined in accordance with the League Rules and the parties shall seek to ensure that
such appeal shall be heard within a further 28 days.
12.4 If the Club exercises its right of appeal the termination of this agreement shall not become
effective unless and until it shall have been determined that the Scholar was entitled to
terminate the agreement pursuant to clause 12.1.
12.5 Any such termination shall be subject to the rights of the parties provided for in the League Rules.
406
SCHOLARSHIP AGREEMENT
PLYD Form 1
13. Cancellation of Registration
13.1 At any time during the currency of this agreement the Scholar without giving any reason
therefore may apply to the Club for cancellation of his registration, whereupon the Club shall
complete and sign a mutual cancellation notification in accordance with the League Rules
whereupon this agreement shall terminate.
13.2 In consequence of such a termination, the Scholar shall not be permitted by the League to be
registered as a Player until the expiry of two years from its effective date unless either:
13.2.1 the Club gives its written consent; or
13.2.2 the Club has received compensation for the training and development of the Scholar
in accordance with the League Rules.
14. Holidays
14.1 The Scholar shall be entitled to five weeks holiday a year, to be taken at a time or times as
shall be determined by the Club.
15.1 This agreement constitutes the entire agreement between the Club and the Scholar and
supersedes any and all preceding agreements between the Club and the Scholar.
15.2 For the purposes of the Data Protection Act 1998 the Scholar consents to the Club processing
Personal Data including Sensitive Personal Data (both as defined in the said Act) about the
Scholar and using it for all relevant administrative and statistical purposes connected with
the Scholars education and potential future in professional football and sharing such Data
with the League, the FA, the PFA and any relevant training body for the same purposes.
16. Jurisdiction and Law
16.1 This agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with English law and the
parties submit to the non-exclusive jurisdiction of the English courts.
407
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT FORMS
15. Miscellaneous
SCHEDULE ONE
PLYD Form 1
SCHOLARSHIP ALLOWANCE
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT FORMS
Supplemental Provisions and Employment Rights Act 1996
1.
This Scholarship Agreement commences on
2.
The Scholars employment with the Club began on the date set out in paragraph 1 [replace the words
in italics with the appropriate date if it began earlier].
3.
No employment with a previous employer shall count as part of the Scholars continuous period of
employment hereunder.
4.
The Scholars hours of work are such as the Club may from time to time reasonably require of him to
carry out his duties and the Scholar shall not be entitled to any additional remuneration for work
done outside normal working hours.
5.
The place of employment shall be at the Clubs ground and training ground but the Club shall be
entitled to require the Scholar to play and to undertake his duties hereunder at any other place
throughout the world.
6.
The terms and conditions of this contract form part of a number of collective agreements between
the Club (through the League) and the Scholar (through the PFA) affecting the Scholars employment.
7.
No contracting out certificate pursuant to the Pensions Scheme Act 1993 is in force in respect of the
Scholars employment under this contract.
8.
There is no entitlement to pensions benefit in relation to the Scholars employment. However, the
Club shall provide access to a designated stakeholder pension scheme as required by law. For the
avoidance of doubt, the Club will not make any contributions to such stakeholder scheme.
9.
The wage payable by virtue of Clause 6.3 of this agreement is calculated as follows and shall be paid
monthly in arrears:
per week from
per week from
and terminates on
to
to
If the agreement is extended pursuant to the exercise by the Club of the option set out in Clause 4.2, the rate of
wage will be as follows:
per week from
Any other provisions:
408
to
SCHEDULE TWO
PLYD Form 1
DISCIPLINARY PROCEDURE AND PENALTIES
1.
Introduction
The disciplinary procedure aims to ensure that the Club behaves fairly in investigating and dealing
with allegations of unacceptable conduct with a view to helping and encouraging all Scholars to
achieve and maintain appropriate standards of conduct and performance. The Club nevertheless
reserves the right to depart from the precise requirements of its disciplinary procedure where the
Club considers it expedient to do so and where the Scholars resulting treatment is no less fair.
2.
Records
All cases of disciplinary action under this procedure will be recorded and placed in the Clubs
records until deleted in accordance with paragraph 4.2. A copy of the Clubs disciplinary records
concerning the Scholar will be supplied to the Scholar at his request.
3.
The Procedure
3.1 Investigation
No action will be taken before a proper investigation has been undertaken by the Club into
the matter complained of. If the Club determines the same to be appropriate the Club may
by written notice suspend the Scholar for up to fourteen days while the investigation takes
place. If the Scholar is so suspended this agreement will continue together with all the
Scholars rights under it except that during the period of suspension the Scholar will not be
entitled to access to any of the Clubs premises except at the prior request or with the prior
consent of the Club and subject to such conditions as the Club may impose. The decision to
suspend the Scholar will be notified in writing to the Scholar by the Club.
3.2 Disciplinary Hearing
3.2.1 If the Club decides to hold a disciplinary hearing about the matter complained of the
Scholar will be given full details in writing of the complaint against him and reasonable
notice of the date and time of the hearing. At the hearing the Scholar will be given an
opportunity to state his case either personally, through his representative or the PFA.
3.2.2 Subject as provided in paragraph 3.2.3 no disciplinary penalty will be imposed without
first giving the Scholar the opportunity to state his case.
3.2.3 A disciplinary hearing may proceed in the Scholars absence and a disciplinary penalty
may be imposed if he fails to appear at such hearing after having received proper
notice thereof.
3.3 Appeals
3.3.1 The Scholar shall have a right of appeal to the Board against any disciplinary decision.
The Scholar should inform the Board in writing of his wish to appeal within seven days
of the date of notification to him of the decision which forms the subject of such
appeal. The Board will conduct an appeal hearing as soon as possible thereafter at
which the Scholar will be given a further opportunity to state his case either personally
or through his representative. The decision of the Board will be notified to the Scholar
in writing within seven days and subject to paragraph 3.3.2 will be final and binding
under this procedure.
409
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT FORMS
The following steps will be taken as appropriate in all cases of disciplinary action
DISCIPLINARY PROCEDURES AND PENALTIES
PLYD Form 1
3.3.2 In the event of any sanction being imposed or confirmed in excess of an oral warning
the Scholar may by notice in writing served on the Club and the League within seven
days of receipt by the Scholar of written notification of the decision of the Board
appeal against it to the League and such appeal shall be determined in accordance
with the League Rules.
3.3.3 If the Scholar exercises any right of appeal as aforesaid any sanction imposed by the
Club upon the Scholar shall not take effect until the appeal has been determined and
the sanction confirmed, varied or revoked as the case may be.
4. Disciplinary Penalties and Termination
4.1 At a disciplinary hearing or on an appeal to the Board against a disciplinary decision the Club
may dismiss the allegation or if it is proved to the Clubs satisfaction may:
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT FORMS
4.1.1 give an oral warning, a formal written warning or after a previous warning or warnings
a final written warning to the Scholar;
4.1.2 impose a fine not exceeding the amount of the basic wage for a period of up to
two weeks;
4.1.3 order the Scholar not to attend at any of the Clubs premises for such period as the
Club thinks fit not exceeding two weeks; or
4.1.4 where the circumstances set out in Clause 10.1 of this agreement apply, terminate
this agreement.
4.2 Any warning or sanction given under this disciplinary procedure will be deleted in the Clubs
records after twelve months.
SIGNED by the Scholar
in the presence of his Parent:
[Signature]
[Address]
[Occupation]
SIGNED by [insert name]
for and on behalf of the Club in the presence of:
[Signature]
[Address]
[Occupation]
410
PREMIER LEAGUE
PLYD Form 2
NOTIFICATION OF TRIALISTS PARTICULARS (Youth Development Rule 243.2)
To:
The Secretary
The Premier League
We hereby give notice that the Trialist whose particulars appear below is attending the Academy of
Football Club:
Surname
Other name(s)
Address
Post Code
Parents email address
Travelling time from this address to the Academy #
Place of Birth
Nationality
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT FORMS
Date of Birth
Countries for which eligible to play (if known)
Date of commencement of trial period
Date trial period is due to end
Other clubs (if any) at whose Academy the Trialist has attended for a trial during the current Season
Other clubs (if any) at whose Academy the Trialist has been registered:
Club
From
To
Club
From
To
(Continue separately if more than three such Clubs) Certificate by Player
I hereby certify that the above particulars are correct and consent to this application, and, where I am over
the age of 16, I further consent to:
the conduct of drug testing on me in accordance with the Football Associations Memorandum on
Drug Testing and to me receiving medication as instructed and any emergency dental, medical or
surgical treatment, including anaesthetic or blood transfusion, as considered necessary by the medical
authority present;
pursuant to Schedule 2 and Schedule 3 of the Data Protection Act 1998 to the Football Association
Premier League Limited holding and processing any and all personal data and sensitive personal
data relating to me contained within this Form for the purpose of discharging its sanction as a
regulatory, administrative and governing body of football.
I further certify that I have provided to the Club giving this notice full written particulars of any medical
condition from which I suffer and I undertake to inform the Club forthwith in writing if any such medical
condition arises during the trial period.
411
NOTIFICATION OF TRIALISTS PARTICULARS
PLYD Form 2
Endorsement by Parent+
I, (full name)
of (address)
Post Code
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT FORMS
being the Parent (as defined in Premier League Rule S.1.12.) of the above-named Trialist, hereby certify that
the above particulars are correct and consent to this application, to the conduct of drug testing on him in
accordance with the Football Associations Memorandum on Drug Testing and to his receiving medication
as instructed and any emergency dental, medical or surgical treatment, including anaesthetic or blood
transfusion, as considered necessary by the medical authorities present. I further consent pursuant to
Schedule 2 and Schedule 3 of the Data Protection Act 1998 to The Football Association Premier League
Limited holding and processing any and all personal data and sensitive personal data relating to the
above-named Trialist contained within this Form for the purpose of discharging its functions as a regulatory
and governing body of football. I further certify that I have provided to the above-named Club full written
particulars of any medical condition from which the above-named Trialist suffers and I undertake to inform
the Club forthwith in writing if any such medical condition arises during the trial period.
Signed by the Parent
Date
Countersigned by the Trialist
Signed on behalf of the Club
Date
Position
Date
# t o be completed if the Trialist is in age groups Under 9 to Under 14 inclusive (subject to the exception in Youth
Development Rule 241.2)
not more than 6 consecutive weeks from the date of commencement
+ to be completed if the Trialist is a minor
412
PREMIER LEAGUE
PLYD Form 3
NOTICE OF ENDING OF TRIAL PERIOD (Youth Development Rule 252)
To:
The Secretary
The Premier League
We hereby give notice that the trial period of [name of Trialist]
who has been attending the Academy of
Football Club on trial ended
on [date]
Signed
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT FORMS
Position
Date
413
PREMIER LEAGUE
PLYD Form 4
PRE-REGISTRATION AGREEMENT (Youth Development Rule 255)
Date
Parties
(1)
Football Club of
(2)
of
(the Club)
(the player)
whose date of birth is Place of birth
Nationality Countries for which eligible to play (if known)
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT FORMS
Undertakings by the Club
Pursuant to Rule 255 of the Premier League Youth Development Rules (the Rules), the Club hereby
undertakes that:
1.
2.
upon the player reaching the statutory school leaving age applicable in England/ceasing Full Time
Education* it will apply to register the player as an Academy Player at its Academy and having acquired the
registration will enter into a Scholarship Agreement with the player in the form annexed to the Rules;
upon the players Coaching Curriculum (of which a copy is annexed hereto) or any variation of it being
approved under the provisions of Rule 257 of the Rules, to coach the player in accordance therewith until
the said Scholarship Agreement is entered into.
Undertakings by the Player
The player hereby undertakes that:
1.
2.
he is not registered with nor during the currency of this agreement will he consent to becoming registered
with any Premier League or Football League club other than the Club;
upon his Coaching Curriculum or any variation of it being approved as aforesaid, he will participate in the
same to the very best of his ability.
I consent pursuant to Schedule 2 and Schedule 3 of the Data Protection Act 1998 to The Football Association
Premier League Limited holding and processing the above personal data and any and all sensitive personal
data which may be contained in and/or referred to in the annexed players coaching programme for the
purpose of discharging its functions as a regulatory and governing body of football.
Signed on behalf of the Club
Position
Signed on behalf of the player
Signed by his Parent
*delete as appropriate
Secretarys Certificate
I certify that the coaching programme annexed to the Pre-Registration Agreement of which this is a copy has
been approved/not approved* by the Board.
Signed
Secretary, the Premier League
Date
414
PREMIER LEAGUE
PLYD Form 5
ACADEMY PLAYER REGISTRATION APPLICATION (Youth Development Rule 263)
Academy Players Particulars
Surname
Other name(s)
Address
Post Code
Parents email address
Travelling time from the above address to the principal venues
Date of Birth
Place of Birth
Nationality
Countries for which eligible to play (if known)
Other clubs (if any) at which the Academy Player has been registered:
From
To
From
To
School
Training Model on which the Academy Player is to be engaged:
Length of registration:
year(s) [complete as appropriate]
Last day of registration:
20
Note: Youth Development Rules 277 to 282 set out the circumstances in which an Academy Players registration can
be terminated earlier than the date set out above, and the consequences of early termination. Further guideance can
be obtained from the Premier League or from the PFA Independent Registration Advisory Service, both of whose
contact details are set out in the Charter for Academy Players and Parents which the Premier League will send to the
Academy Players parent when it receives this form.
Application to Register
We,
for the period set out above.
Football Club, apply for the Academy Player to be registered at our Academy
We certify that we have not, either directly or indirectly, made an improper approach to him nor have we
improperly induced him to become registered as an Academy Player.
Signed
Authorised Signatory
Date
415
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT FORMS
Club
Club
ACADEMY PLAYER REGISTRATION APPLICATION
PLYD Form 5
Endorsement by Academy Player
I consent to this application and consent pursuant to Schedule 2 and Schedule 3 of the Data Protection Act
1998 to the Football Association Premier League Limited (the Premier League) holding and processing the
above personal data and sensitive personal data for the purpose of discharging its functions as a
regulatory and governing body of football. I certify that the above particulars are correct. I agree to be bound
by the Rules of the Premier League.
Signed
Date
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT FORMS
Endorsement by Parent*
I, (full name)
of (address)
Post Code
(and of the above email address) being the person having parental responsibility for the above-named Academy
Player, certify that the above details are correct and consent to:
(a) this application;
(b) the conduct of drug testing on the Academy Player in accordance with the Football Associations AntiDoping Regulations;
(c) his receiving medication as instructed and any emergency dental, medical or surgical treatment, including
anaesthetic or blood transfusion, as considered necessary by the medical authorities present; and
(d) the Club having access to the Academy Players school reports and educational attainment data.
Signed
Date
t o be completed if the Academy Player is in age groups Under 9 to Under 16 inclusive and time restrictions apply to the Clubs
registration of Academy Players (see Youth Development Rule 242)
if the Academy Player last played for a club affiliated to a national association other than the Football Association, unless the
Academy Player is aged under 12 years, this Form must be accompanied by written confirmation from the Football
Association that an international registration transfer certificate has been issued in respect of the Academy Player
* to be completed if the Academy Player is a minor
+C
omplete Form PLYD5A if the Academy Player is to be registered on the Full Time Training Model.
Complete Form PLYD5B if the Academy Player is to be registered on the Hybrid Training Model.
416
PREMIER LEAGUE
PLYD Form 5A
FULL TIME TRAINING MODEL (Youth Development Rule 203)
Academy Players Particulars
Surname
Other name(s)
Address
Post Code
Date of Birth
Place of Birth
Application to Register the Academy Player on the Full Time Training Model
We,
Football Club, apply to register the above-named Academy Player on
the Full Time Training Model until
20
, being the last Friday in
June in the academic year in which he reaches the age of 16.
2.
The residence arrangements for the Academy Player will be as follows:
3.
We undertake to:
3.1 ensure the Academy Players coaching and education are scheduled in accordance with the
requirements of the Full Time Training Model as set out in the Youth Development Rules;
3.2 provide the Academy Player with education until the date set out in paragraph 1 (even if the
Academy Players registration is terminated by us or his training is switched to a different
Training Model) as follows (being either one of the four options set out in the guidance to
Youth Development Rule 195 or another model which has been approved by the League):
3.3 ensure that the Academy Player has the opportunity to engage in community and citizenship
activities as set out in Youth Development Rule 198; and
3.4 advise the Academy Players Parent(s), school and the League immediately if the Club
changes or proposes to change any of the above arrangements.
Signed
Authorised Signatory
Date
417
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT FORMS
1.
FULL TIME TRAINING MODEL
PLYD Form 5A
Consent by Academy Player
I consent to the above application and consent pursuant to Schedule 2 and Schedule 3 of the Data Protection Act
1998 to The Football Association Premier League Limited (the Premier League) holding and processing the
above personal data and sensitive personal data for the purpose of discharging its functions as a regulatory
and governing body of football. I certify that the above particulars are correct. I agree to be bound by the Rules
of the Premier League.
Signed
Date
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT FORMS
Consent by Parent to be completed if the Academy Player is a minor
I, (full name)
of (address)
post code
(and of the above email address) being the person having parental
responsibility for the above-named Academy Player, hereby certify that the above particulars are correct and
consent to this application, to the conduct of drug testing on him in accordance with the Football Associations
Anti-Doping Regulations and to his receiving medication as instructed and any emergency dental, medical or
surgical treatment, including anaesthetic or blood transfusion, as considered necessary by the medical authorities
present.
Signed
Date
418
PREMIER LEAGUE
PLYD Form 5B
HYBRID TRAINING MODEL (Youth Development Rule 203)
Academy Players Particulars
Surname
Other name(s)
Address
Date of birth
Post Code
Place of birth
Application to Register the Academy Player on the Hybrid Training Model
We,
Football Club, apply to register the above-named
Academy Player on the Hybrid Training Model until
20
2. We undertake to:
2.1 ensure the Academy Players coaching and education are scheduled in accordance with the
requirements of the Hybrid Training Model as set out in the Youth Development Rules and in
accordance with the written agreement with his school and Parent entered into pursuant to
Rule 197.5, a copy of which is annexed hereto;
2.2 ensure that the Academy Player has the opportunity to engage in community and citizenship
activities as set out in Youth Development Rule 207; and
2.3 advise the Academy Players Parent(s), school and the League immediately if the Club changes
or proposes to change any of the above arrangements.
Signed
Authorised Signatory
Date
419
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT FORMS
1.
Consent by Academy Player
I consent to the above application and consent pursuant to Schedule 2 and Schedule 3 of the Data
Protection Act 1998 to The Football Association Premier League Limited (the Premier League) holding and
processing the above personal data and sensitive personal data for the purpose of discharging its
functions as a regulatory and governing body of football. I certify that the above particulars are correct. I
agree to be bound by the Rules of the Premier League.
Signed
Date
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT FORMS
Consent by Parent to be completed if the Academy Player is a minor
I, (full name)
of (address)
post code
(and of the above email address) being the person having parental responsibility for the above-named
Academy Player, hereby certify that the above particulars are correct and consent to this application, to the
conduct of drug testing on him in accordance with the Football Associations Anti-Doping Regulations and
to his receiving medication as instructed and any emergency dental, medical or surgical treatment, including
anaesthetic or blood transfusion, as considered necessary by the medical authorities present.
Signed
Date
420
PREMIER LEAGUE
PLYD Form 6
ACADEMY ETHNICITY MONITORING QUESTIONNAIRE (Youth Development Rule 264)
USE OF INFORMATION
Completion of this questionnaire is voluntary. If you provide the information it will be used as set out below and
will not be used for selection or any other purposes.
The information provided on this ethnicity questionnaire will be recorded on a computer system shared by the Football
Association Premier League Limited (Premier League) (and The Football League Limited should the Player ever
compete in the Football League) against the Academy Players record and will be used:
to help the Premier League gain insight as to who is playing the game at this level
to help ensure compliance with the Premier Leagues Inclusion and Anti-Discrimination Policy (a copy of which is in
Appendix 2 of the Premier Leagues Rules)
to compile aggregate statistics and reports
- on a club by club basis which we may wish to share with the relevant club only and The Football Association Limited
- on a league basis which we may wish to publish for public interest and to share with other bodies that have a legitimate
interest in equal opportunities such as the Professional Footballers Association and the Commission for Racial Equality
A White
British
English
Scottish
Welsh
Irish
Gypsy or Irish Traveller
Any other White Background,
please write in
Asian or Asian British
Indian
British-Indian
Pakistani
British-Pakistani
Bangladeshi
British-Bangladeshi
Chinese
British-Chinese
Any other Asian background,
please write in
Other Background
Arab
Other
Prefer not to say
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT FORMS
What is your ethnic group?
(Choose ONE section from A to E, then tick the appropriate box to indicate your cultural background)
B Mixed
White and Black Caribbean
White and Black African
White and Asian
Any other Mixed Background,
please write in
Black or Black British
Caribbean
British-Caribbean
African
British-African
Any other Black background,
please write in
F Undeclared
Prefer not to disclose
my ethnic origin
Name of Player
Signed
Date
(Parent / Guardian to sign if Academy Player is a minor)
421
PREMIER LEAGUE
PLYD Form 7
LIST OF ACADEMY PLAYERS (Youth Development Rule 272)
To:
The Secretary
The Premier League
The registrations of the following Academy Players (other than those who have signed a Scholarship Agreement)
are held by
Football Club as at the
third Saturday in May (year)
Current Age Group
Category
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT FORMS
Full Name
Signed
Position
Date
Note : The categories of Academy Players are :
1. Academy Players whose registration has been retained (indicate 1F if on Full Time Training Model).
2. Academy Players whose registration it is intended to retain (indicate 2F if on Full Time Training Model).
3. Academy Players whose registration it is intended to terminate.
422
PREMIER LEAGUE
PLYD Form 8
RETENTION/TERMINATION NOTIFICATION (Youth Development Rules 273.1)
FOR ACADEMY PLAYERS ENTERING INTO AGE GROUPS UNDER 10, UNDER 11
AND UNDER 12
To:
[name and address of Academy Player]
We, Football Club,
hereby give you notice that it is our intention to retain/terminate* your registration with effect from
the first Saturday in June.
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT FORMS
Signed
Position
Date
* delete as appropriate. If the registration is retained, it is for a period of 1 year pursuant to Rule 259
(subject to Rule 260).
423
PREMIER LEAGUE
PLYD Form 9
RETENTION/TERMINATION NOTIFICATION (Youth Development Rule 273.2)
FOR ACADEMY PLAYERS ENTERING INTO AGE GROUPS UNDER 13 AND
UNDER 15
To:
[name and address of Academy Player]
We, Football Club,
hereby give you notice that it is our intention to retain/terminate* your registration with effect from the
first Saturday in June. [Your registration will be retained on the Full Time Training Model+.]
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT FORMS
Signed
Position
Date
* delete as appropriate. If the registration is retained, it is for a period of 2 years pursuant to Youth Development Rule 259
(subject to Rule 260).
+ delete if inapplicable
424
PREMIER LEAGUE
PLYD Form 10
ACADEMY PLAYERS REGISTRATION:
MUTUAL CANCELLATION NOTIFICATION (Youth Development Rule 277.2)
To:
The Secretary
The Premier League
The registration of [name of Academy Player]
held by Football Club
has today been cancelled by mutual agreement. Unless otherwise set out below the Club will retain rights to
compensation in respect of the Academy Player pursuant to the Premier League Youth Development Rules and
the FIFA regulations for the Statement and Transfer of Players.
Signed by the Academy Player
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT FORMS
Signed by the Parent*
Signed on behalf of the Club
Position
Date
* if the Academy Player is aged under 18 years
425
PREMIER LEAGUE
PLYD Form 11
SCHOLARSHIP OFFER (Youth Development Rule 287)
To:
[name and address of Academy Player]
We, Football Club, hereby offer
hereby offer to enter into a Scholarship Agreement with you upon your reaching the statutory school
leaving age applicable in England.
The Scholarship Agreement will be in PLYD Form 1.
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT FORMS
Signed
Position
Date
426
PREMIER LEAGUE
PLYD Form 12
RESPONSE TO SCHOLARSHIP OFFER (Youth Development Rule 288)
To:
Football Club.
I, [name of Academy Player] hereby accept/
refuse* your offer in PLYD Form 11 dated
.
Signed by the Academy Player
Signed by his Parent
* delete as appropriate
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT FORMS
427
428
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT FORMS
APPENDICES TO THE RULES
APPENDICES
TO THE RULES
APPENDIX 1
SCHEDULE OF OFFENCES
(Rule F.1.4.3)
CONTRARY TO
Dishonestly receiving a programme broadcast
from within the UK with intent to avoid payment
Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988 s.297
Admitting spectators to watch a football match
at unlicensed premises
Football Spectators Act 1989 (as amended by the
Football (Disorder) Act 2009), s.9
Persons subject to a banning order (as defined)
Football Spectators Act 2000 Schedule 1
Ticket touting football tickets
Criminal Justice and Public Order Act 1994 s.166
APPENDICES TO THE RULES
OFFENCE
430
APPENDIX 2
INCLUSION AND ANTI-DISCRIMINATION POLICY
(Rule J.4)
1.
The Premier League and Clubs, to achieve their commitment to inclusion and to removing
discrimination whether by reason of age, race, religion or belief, sexual orientation, disability,
diversity, gender, reassignment or sex, will act as follows:
be an equal opportunities employer;
encourage and promote similar commitment from every other organisation or individual acting
within the game;
not tolerate discriminatory behaviour, whether physical or verbal, and take appropriate disciplinary
or other action;
support training and awareness raising activities.
2.
Each Club shall:
hold the Advanced Level of the Equality Standard by the end of 30 June in the Season 2 years after
the obtaining of the Preliminary Leve
Equality Standard is the award and relevant criteria and standards agreed by Clubs from time to
time and as published by the Board on the Extranet.
431
APPENDICES TO THE RULES
hold the Preliminary Level of the Equality Standard by 30 June 2016 for Clubs in Membership in
Season 2015/16 or 30 June in the Season following its promotion from the Football League for any
other club; and
APPENDIX 3
CAMERA POSITIONS
(Rule K.62)
CAMERA POSITIONS AT A LEAGUE MATCH
APPENDICES TO THE RULES
Each Club shall provide at each League Match played at its Stadium positions for television cameras in
accordance with the requirements of this Appendix 3, and each such position shall be Hardwired.
1.
Pursuant to Rule K.62, and subject to paragraph 2 below, Clubs must provide Hardwired camera
positions in the locations shown on:
1.1 Plan A in respect of League Matches to be broadcast live (but not in 3D) in the United
Kingdom; and
1.2 Plan B in respect of League Matches to be shown live and in 3D in the United Kingdom; and
1.3 Plan C in respect of all other League Matches.
2.
The key to the numbers on the Plans is set out below and explains what kind of camera each
number on the Plans refers to and gives further detail..
3.
The Stadium lay-out shown in Plans A to C is indicative only. It is not intended to be an exact
representation of a Stadium; rather it is intended to show:
3.1 where cameras should be placed in relation to the pitch; and
3.2 the relative height above the pitch of each camera.
4.
The League will work with each Club to identify and agree the location of each camera illustrated
on the Plans at the Clubs Stadium. This will then be recorded on the Clubs agreed Technical
Specification.
CAMERA PLANS: KEY
Numbers in brackets refer to the designated Camera Number.
(1) Main Camera
Positioned on Television Gantry exactly on the halfway line facing away from the sun
Ideal angle is 12-14 degrees to centre line & 22-24 degrees from near-side touchline
This camera will be used to provide the main wide-shot coverage of the game
(2) Close-Up Camera
Positioned on Television Gantry. Normally located next to the Camera 1, it is used to provide closer
coverage of the action and player/referee close-ups
A large lens may be used
(3) Pitch-Side Halfway Camera
A fixed camera on the halfway line at pitch level on the same side as Camera 1
The position should enable an unimpeded view of the field of play and substitutes benches for the
4th Official, and a clear view of the pitch for the Club representatives
A large lens may be used
432
APPENDIX 3
(4) Close-Up Camera
Positioned on Television Gantry. Normally located next to Cameras 1&2, it is used to provide closer
coverage of the action and player/referee close-ups
A large lens may be used
(5+6) Steadicams
Up to 2 hand held portable steadicams, each positioned either side of the halfway line on the
same side as main camera may work the length of each half but concentrating in a zone extending
between the goal-line and 22 yard line
The cameras should not cause any viewing obstructions to the Team Benches and sufficient space
must be allowed for players to warm up
It is possible for Host Broadcasters to use their steadicams on the pitch during the pre-match
warm up for a short period of time
Positions and timings to be agreed with each Club at the start of each season
(9+10) High-Behind Goal Camera
Two cameras installed in the stands behind either goal, at a height which permits an unobstructed
view of the penalty spot from above the crossbar. Large lenses may be required
(Camera 8 on the UK Non-Live Camera Plan, and only one of the two shown will be used)
(11+12) Low-Behind Goal Cameras
Two cameras, one at each end, at pitch level in fixed positions behind each goal-line, on the side
closest to Camera 1. Ideally aligned where the 6yd line meets the goal-line
(Camera 7 on the UK Non-Live Camera Plan, and only one of the two shown will be used)
(13) Beauty-Shot Camera
A fixed camera mounted high in the stadium to give a panoramic static shot of the pitch
(Camera 10 on the UK Non-Live Camera Plan)
(14+15) Reverse Angle Camera
Two cameras located opposite Camera 1 for reverse-angle coverage and usually for coverage of
the Team Benches
Large lenses may be required
(Camera 9 on the UK Non-Live Camera Plan, and only one of the three shown will be used)
(16+17) Mini-Cameras
Mini-cameras may be placed directly behind the goal net but cannot be attached to the net or the
actual posts and crossbar. It can be as close to the net as desired as long as it does not touch the
net. A mini-camera may therefore be attached to the poles which support the net or the cable
connecting the back of the net to the vertical stanchions directly behind the goal
433
APPENDICES TO THE RULES
(7+8) 22 Yard Cameras
Two cameras installed on the same side as Camera 1 at the same level or higher than the main
camera positions, facing each of the 22 yard lines. Often used to cover play in a wide angle, but also
used for Close Up coverage
Large lenses may be required
(Cameras 5 & 6 on the UK Non-Live Camera Plan)
APPENDIX 3
(18+19) Goal-Line Cameras
Two cameras located on the same side as the main camera, level with the goal-line and with an
unobstructed view of the whole goal and the goal-line inside the penalty area
(20+21) Hot Head Cameras
A hot head camera may be used behind goals in front of the advertising boards. Alternatively, hot
head cameras on poles behind the advertising boards may be used
APPENDICES TO THE RULES
(22, 23, 24 and 25) Corner Cameras
Options for cameras to be placed in all four corners approximately five metres above the pitch.
A minimum of two diagonally opposing corners should always be available
Large lenses may be required
(Camera 9 on the UK Non-Live Camera Plan, and only one of the three shown will be used)
(26, 27, 28 and 29) Electronic Newsgathering (ENG) Cameras
Four portable ENG cameras (not cabled) at pitch level, behind each goal-line.
These cameras would need to be positioned outside (nearer the touchline) the cabled Host
Broadcaster Cameras and would be required to be fixed during each half
There may be a requirement for these cameras to change ends at half-time subject
(30 and 31) Hi Motion Or Big Lens Close Up Cameras
Two cameras, one at each end, at pitch level behind each goal-line, ideally aligned where the 6yd line
meets the goal-line, or between 6yd and 18yd line should the small lens camera already be in place
Large lenses may be required
(32 and 33) Analysis Cameras
Two cameras positioned on the Television Gantry. If space is not available on the main gantry then
suitable positions must be made available near to, and at a similar level to, the main gantry and not
more than 20m from the half-way line
Large lenses may be required
3D CAMERA POSITIONS
Note: Bracketed numbers refer to camera positions in UK Live + 3D Camera Plan
(3D-1) Main Camera
Positioned on Television Gantry or a separate gantry on the halfway line facing away from the sun
Ideal angle is 6-8 degrees to centre line & 12-14 degrees from near-side touchline
(3D-2) Close-Up Camera
Positioned on Television Gantry or a separate gantry on the halfway line in close proximity to
Camera 3D-1, facing away from the sun. Ideal angle is 6-8 degrees to centre line & 12-14 degrees
from near-side touchline
434
APPENDIX 3
(3D-3) Steadicam
Will operate in place of either Camera 5 or 6 from the 2D Camera plan (there will only ever be 2
steadicams) and will operate in the same was as Cameras 5 and 6
(3D-4, 3D-5, 3D-6 and 3D-7) Low-Behind Goal Cameras
4 cameras, at pitch level in fixed positions behind each goal-line on each side of the goal, outside
(further away from the goal) the 2D cameras situated between 6yd and 18yd line
(3D-8) High Behind
One camera installed in the stand behind one goal, at a height which permits an unobstructed view
of the penalty spot but not necessarily from above the crossbar, as a lower angle is more beneficial
for 3D coverage. Two positions for 3D-8 are shown on the camera plan but only one will be used
APPENDICES TO THE RULES
435
APPENDIX 3
APPENDICES TO THE RULES
PLAN A
UK Live Camera Plan
PLAN B
UK Live + 3D Camera Plan
436
APPENDIX 3
PLAN C
UK Non-Live Camera Plan
APPENDICES TO THE RULES
437
APPENDIX 4
MEDICAL EXAMINATIONS TO BE CARRIED OUT ON CONTRACT PLAYERS
AND STUDENTS REGISTERED ON SCHOLARSHIP AGREEMENTS
(Rule O.24)
A) PERSONAL FOOTBALL HISTORY
1.
Total number of matches played in previous season
(inc. friendly matches)
2.
Dominant leg
3.
Position on the field
Annually
(Recommended)
B) MEDICAL HISTORY AND HEREDITY OF THE PLAYER
APPENDICES TO THE RULES
1.
2.
3.
4.
438
Family history (1st generation, i.e. parents, brothers and sisters)
a) Hypertension, stroke;
b) Heart conditions incl. sudden cardiac death;
c) Vascular problems, varicose, deep venous thrombosis;
d) Diabetes;
e) Allergies, asthma;
f) Cancer, blood disease;
g) Chronic joint or muscle problems;
h) Hormonal problems.
To be
updated annually
(Mandatory)
Medical history of the player
a) Heart problems, arrhythmias, syncope;
b) Concussion: medical history to be reviewed (it is recommended that an
annual baseline Sports Concussion Assessment Tool Test (third edition1 )
is undertaken prior to the start of each Season);
c) Allergies, asthma;
d) Recurrent infections;
e) Major diseases;
f) Major injuries causing surgery, hospitalisation, absence from
football of more than 1 month.
To be
updated annually
(Mandatory)
Present complaints
a) Symptoms such as pain in general (muscle, articulation);
b) Chest pain, dyspnoea, palpitations, arrhythmia;
c) Dizziness, syncope;
d) Flu-like symptoms, cough, expectoration;
e) Loss of appetite, weight loss;
f) Sleeplessness;
g) Gastrointestinal upset.
Annually
(Mandatory)
Medication/supplements
a) Current specific medication being taken by the player;
b) Evidence that a TUE (Therapeutic Use Exemption) has been granted
(if required);
c) Nutritional supplements being taken by the player;
d) Player educated about Anti-Doping Codes.
Annually
(Mandatory)
APPENDIX 4
5.
Vaccination
Record of status of vaccination (incl. date);
Strongly recommended:
Vaccination against Tetanus and Hepatitis A and B
To be
updated annually
(Mandatory)
C) GENERAL MEDICAL EXAMINATION
Height
2.
Weight
3.
Blood pressure (to ensure validity of continuous testing, it is
recommended to always use the same arm and to specify it in the
players medical records)
4.
Head and neck (eyes with vision test, nose, ears, teeth,
throat, thyroid gland)
5.
Lymph nodes
6.
Chest and lungs (inspection, auscultation, percussion, inspiratory and
expiratory chest expansion)
7.
Heart (sounds, murmurs, pulse, arrhythmias)
8.
Abdomen (incl. hernia, scars)
9.
Blood vessels (e.g. peripheral pulses, vascular murmurs, varicoses)
10.
Skin inspection
11.
Nervous system (e.g. reflexes, sensory abnormalities)
12.
Motor system (e.g. weakness, atrophy)
Annually
(Mandatory)
APPENDICES TO THE RULES
1.
D) SPECIAL CARDIOLOGICAL EXAMINATION
As a principal, a standard 12-lead electrocardiogram (ECG) and an echocardiography must be performed at
the earliest opportunity during the career of a player and in particular if indicated by clinical examination.
If indicated by anamnestic and clinical indication it is recommended to perform repeated testing including
an Exercise ECG and an echocardiography
It is obligatory:
I)
to perform one standard 12-lead ECG and one echocardiography on all Players:
a. when they are aged 16, and
b. if they are older than 21 years and have not yet had an ECG and echocardiography in their
personal medical records;
II) to perform one standard 12-lead ECG on and to ensure a cardiac history questionnaire is completed
in respect of all Players when they are aged 18 and 20.
The result of the performed examinations must be contained in the players medical records.
1.
Electrocardiogram (12-lead ECG)
2.
Echocardiography
Mandatory
* Available at http://bjsm.bmj.com/content/47/5/259.full.pdf+html?sid=09f2fe20-f1ae-4ad8-9ebe-9afe6d453ceb
439
APPENDIX 4
E) LABORATORY EXAMINATION
APPENDICES TO THE RULES
All laboratory tests must be conducted with the informed consent of the player and be in
accordance with national law (cf. confidentially, discrimination issues etc.).
1.
Blood count (haemoglobin, haematocrit, erythrocytes, leukocytes,
thrombocytes)
2.
Urine test (dipstick test to determine level of protein and sugar)
3.
Sedimentation rate
4.
CRP
5.
Blood fats (cholesterol, HDL and LDL cholesterol, triglycerides)
6.
Glucose
7.
Uric acid
8.
Creatinine
9.
Aspartate amino-transferase
10.
Alanine amino-transferase
11.
Gamma-glutamyl-transferase
12.
Creatine kinase
13.
Potassium
14.
Sodium
15.
Magnesium
16.
Iron
17.
Ferritin
18.
Blood group
19.
HIV test
20. Hepatitis screening
440
Annually
(Mandatory)
Annually
(Recommended)
APPENDIX 4
F) ORTHOPAEDIC EXAMINATION AND FUNCTIONAL TESTS
The mandatory checks are common in a sports medical examination.
Points 7 to 9 are recommended to assist club doctors with preventive strategies and tests in the
rehabilitation of injured players.
In addition, the club doctors are advised to consider the exclusion of the condition of spondylolysis and
spondylolisthesis.
References to further assistance in respect of functional tests:
- Simple but reliable functional tests: Ekstrand J, Karlsson J, Hodson A. Football Medicine. London:
Martin Dunitz (Taylor & Francis Group), 2003:562;
- Range of motion and tests for muscle tightness: Ekstrand J, Wiktorsson M, berg B et al. Lower
extremity goniometric measurements: a study to determine their reliability. Arch Phys Med Rehabil
1982;63:171-5;
- One-leg hop test: Ageberg E, Zatterstrom R, Moritz U. Stabilometry and one-leg hop test have high
test-retest reliability. Scand J Med Sci Sports 1998;8-4:198-202;
- SOLEC test: Ageberg E, Zatterstrom R, Moritz U. Stabilometry and one-leg hop test have high
test-retest reliability. Scand J Med Sci Sports 1998;8-4:198-202.
Spinal column: inspection and functional examination (tenderness, pain, range
of movement)
2.
Shoulder: pain, mobility and stability
3.
Hip, groin and thigh: pain and mobility
4.
Knee: pain, mobility, stability and effusion
5.
Lower leg: pain (shin splint syndrome, achilles tendon)
6.
Ankle and foot: pain, mobility, stability and effusion
7.
Range of motion (ROM) and test for muscle tightness
a) Adductors
b) Hamstrings
c) Lliopsoas
d) Quadriceps
e) Gastrocnemius
f) Soleus
8.
Muscle strength (one-leg hop test)
9.
Muscle balance test (SOLEC-test: standing one leg eyes closed)
APPENDICES TO THE RULES
1.
Annually
(Mandatory)
Recommended
G) RADIOLOGICAL EXAMINATION AND ULTRASOUND SCAN
If indicated by clinical and functional findings out of the medical examination performed, a radiological
examination including ultrasound scan, X-ray and MRI may be appropriate.
Performed radiographies, particularly after injuries, must be part of the players medical records.
441
APPENDIX 4A
APPENDICES TO THE RULES
POCKET CONCUSSION RECOGNITION TOOL (Rule O.22)
442
APPENDIX 4A
APPENDICES TO THE RULES
443
APPENDIX 5
CODE OF CONDUCT FOR MANAGERS
(Rule P.1)
1.
A Manager shall strictly observe the terms of his contract with his Club and shall not (either by
himself or through any third party) enter into negotiations with another Club relating to his
employment without having first obtained the permission of his Club to do so.
2.
A Manager shall not, either directly or indirectly (including by making any statement to the media):
APPENDICES TO THE RULES
2.1 make an approach to a Contract Player with a view to the Managers Club negotiating a
contract with such Player except as permitted by either Rule T.1 or Rule T.2; or
2.2 make an approach to a Student registered by another Club (or club) at its Football Academy
or a player with whom another Club (or club) has entered into a pre-registration agreement
which remains current; or
2.3 make an approach to any other employee of another Club (or club) with a view to inducing or
attempting to induce such employee to terminate a contract of employment with that Club
(or club), whether or not by breach of that contract, except with the written consent of the
Club (or club) by which he is employed.
3.
A Manager shall comply with the Laws of the Game, the Rules and Regulations of the Football
Association (including, without limitation, the Football Association Regulations on Working with
Intermediaries), the Rules of the Premier League, the rules of any competition in which his Club
participates and his Club Rules (collectively the Rules) and he shall not encourage or invite any
person (including Players and other employees of his Club) to act in breach of the same but shall
take all possible steps to ensure that they comply with them.
4.
A Manager shall use his best endeavours to ensure that there is in force at his Club a fair and
effective disciplinary policy applicable to Players and other employees under his control and that
it is applied consistently.
5.
A Manager shall not use racist or other discriminatory language. A Managers behaviour should
demonstrate to Players and other employees under his control that discrimination in any form is
unacceptable. A Manager shall use all possible steps to ensure that others in his control adopt the
same standards of behaviour in this regard.
6.
A Manager shall take all reasonable steps to ensure that Players and other employees under his
control accept and observe the authority and decisions of Match Officials and to promote the
highest standards on the field of play generally.
7.
A Manager shall not make public any unfair criticism of any Match Official or any other Manager or
any Player, Official or employee of his or another Club.
8.
A Manager shall ensure that he understands and acts in accordance with his Clubs written transfer
policy (see Rule H.4).
444
APPENDIX 5
9.
I n all discussions, negotiations, transactions and arrangements relating to the employment of
Players by his Club (Player Transactions) including, without limitation, the renewal or
renegotiation of existing contracts or any related contracts or arrangements involving his Club and
a Player and/or third party (for example, involving his Clubs or a Players intellectual property
rights, including the exploitation of name or image), a Manager shall, in addition to his duty to act
in accordance with the Clubs written transfer policy, act with the utmost good faith and in
accordance with his primary duty to act in the best interests of his Club.
10. A Manager shall at all times observe the principles of honesty, transparency, accountability and
personal impartiality (whether financial or otherwise) in his dealings involving Player Transactions..
11. A Manager shall forthwith disclose to his Club the nature and extent of any direct or indirect
interest or any conflict or potential conflict of interest he may have in any transaction or
arrangement involving his Club (including, without limitation, any Player Transaction), he shall not
be involved in the same without the written consent of his Club, and, if such consent is granted, he
shall account to his Club for any benefit which either directly or indirectly he derives therefrom.
13. Upon becoming aware of any breach of the Rules, including by way of example only, any financial
or other benefit or inducement offered in connection with a Player Transaction in breach of the
Rules, a Manager shall immediately report such breach in writing to the League.
14. A Manager shall conduct himself at all times in an ethical and professional manner and shall
observe the highest standards of integrity and fair dealing.
15. A Manager shall take all possible steps to promote the reputation of the game of Association
Football and to prevent it being brought into disrepute.
445
APPENDICES TO THE RULES
12. If a Manager is in any doubt as to whether there exists any interest or conflict (actual or potential)
to be disclosed as required by paragraph 10 above, he may consult with the League Managers
Association for guidance and advice.
APPENDIX 6
CODE OF CONDUCT FOR CLUBS
(Rule P.2)
In all discussions, negotiations and transactions relating to the employment of Managers, each
Club shall behave towards each other Club with the utmost good faith.
2.
A Club shall not (either directly or through any third party) enter into negotiations relating to the
employment of another Clubs Manager without the prior permission of that Club.
3.
A Club shall not take any steps (including the making of statements to the media) to induce another
Clubs Manager to act in breach of the terms of his contract with his Club.
4.
A Club shall strictly observe the terms of its contract with its Manager and, in particular, if on the
determination of the contract any sum is payable by the Club to the Manager, the Club shall ensure
that prompt settlement is made.
APPENDICES TO THE RULES
1.
446
APPENDIX 7
STANDARD CLAUSES
for inclusion in Managers Contracts of Employment
(Rule P.8.1)
1.
The Manager shall observe and comply with the rules and regulations for the time being in force of
any organisation or body the rules and regulations of which the Club is bound to observe including
those of The Football Association and the League and in particular he shall at all times act in
accordance with the Leagues Code of Conduct for Managers.
2.
The Manager shall comply with all reasonable instructions and requests
(a) given to Club Managers by the League or
(b) given to the Manager by the Club
3.
Any dispute or difference arising between the parties hereto as to the construction of this
Agreement or the rights duties or obligations of either party hereunder or any matter arising out of
or concerning the same or the Managers employment hereunder shall be referred to the Managers
Arbitration Tribunal in accordance with the Rules of the League for the time being in force.
Notwithstanding the foregoing provisions of this clause 3 and without prejudice thereto, the
parties shall use and until the conclusion of the arbitration shall continue to use their best
endeavours to attempt to reach a settlement of their dispute by mediation.
[Note: The names and addresses of organisations offering an appropriate mediation service are available
upon application to the League.]
447
APPENDICES TO THE RULES
which arise in the first case out of any commercial contract entered into by the League for the benefit
of its members or in the second case out of any such contract entered into by the Club for its own
benefit and the Manager shall not himself enter into any such contract which conflicts or competes
or is reasonably likely to conflict or compete with those entered into by the League or by the Club as
aforesaid.
APPENDIX 8
CODE OF CONDUCT FOR SCOUTS
APPENDICES TO THE RULES
(Rule Q.8)
1.
The function of a Scout is to identify to his Club players with whom his Club may wish to enter into
negotiations with a view to securing their registration. Scouts are not themselves entitled to enter
into any such negotiations nor are they able to make promises to or offer inducements to any
players whom they approach.
2.
Scouts are employed by and represent their Clubs and are Officials within the meaning of the Rules
of the Premier League (the Rules) by which they are bound.
3.
Scouts must therefore be familiar with the Rules and in particular those relating to Youth
Development. They must maintain an awareness of and at all times comply with the Rules setting
out the circumstances in which their Club may make an approach to a Player or Student (as defined
in the Rules) whose registration is held by another Club.
4.
When acting in the course of his duties a Scout shall at all times carry the formal means of
identification issued to him by his Club and shall produce the same upon demand.
5.
Scouts are responsible for the conduct of their contacts and shall be liable for any act or omission
by a contact which constitutes a breach of the Rules.
6.
Scouts shall conduct themselves in a manner befitting their role as Officials of their Clubs and shall
take all possible steps to promote the reputation of the game of association football and to prevent
it being brought into disrepute.
7.
A Scout shall forthwith disclose to his Club the nature and extent of any direct or indirect interest
he may have in any transaction or arrangement involving his Club and he shall account to his Club
for any benefit which either directly or indirectly he derives therefrom.
8.
A Scout shall conduct himself at all times in an ethical and professional manner and shall observe
the highest standards of integrity and fair dealing.
448
APPENDIX 9
STANDARD CLAUSES
for inclusion in replica Strip manufacturers contracts
(Rule R.16)
1.
[The manufacturers name] (the Company) will not itself or through any officer of the Company
or any person authorised to act on behalf of the Company:1.1 include in a contract for sale or agreement relating to the sale of replica football kit a term or
condition which purports to establish or provide for the establishment of minimum prices to be
charged on the resale of replica football kit in the United Kingdom ; or
1.2 require, as a condition of supplying replica football kit to a dealer, the inclusion in a contract or
agreement of any such term or condition, or the giving of any undertaking to the like effect ; or
1.3 notify to dealers, or otherwise publish on or in relation to replica football kit, a price stated or
calculated to be understood as the minimum price which may be charged on the resale of
those goods the replica football kit in the United Kingdom ; or
1.4 withhold supplies of replica football kit from a dealer seeking to obtain them for resale in the
United Kingdom on the ground that the dealer:
In this subclause 1.4, resale price in relation to a sale of any description, means any price notified
to the dealer or otherwise published by or on behalf of the Company as the price or minimum price
which is to be charged on or is recommended as appropriate for a sale of that description, or any
price prescribed or purporting to be prescribed for that purpose by a contract or agreement
between the dealer and the Company.
2.
For the avoidance of doubt, nothing shall prevent the Company from recommending resale prices to
dealers provided no impression is given that, in doing so, the Company is notifying a minimum price.
3.
The Company may, notwithstanding any of the foregoing, withhold supplies from a dealer, or cause
or procure a supplier to do so, if it has reasonable cause to believe that within the previous 12
months the dealer, or any other dealer to whom the dealer supplies goods, has been using as a lossleader any replica football kit whether or not obtained from the Club.
449
APPENDICES TO THE RULES
1.4.1 has sold in the United Kingdom at a price below the resale price replica football kit
obtained, either directly or indirectly, from the Company, or has supplied such replica
football kit, either directly or indirectly, to a third party who had done so ; or
1.4.2 is likely, if the replica football kit is supplied to him, to sell it in the United Kingdom at
a price below that price, or supply it, either directly or indirectly, to a third party who
would be likely to do so.
APPENDIX 10
NOTICE TO MANUFACTURER LICENSED TO
MANUFACTURE AND DISTRIBUTE CLUB REPLICA STRIP
(Rule R.17)
APPENDICES TO THE RULES
1.
You will not:
1.1 include in a contract for sale or agreement relating to the sale of replica football kit a term or
condition which purports to establish or provide for the establishment of minimum prices to
be charged on the resale of replica football kit in the United Kingdom; or
1.2 require, as a condition of supplying replica football kit to a dealer, the inclusion in a contract or
agreement of any such term or condition, or the giving of any undertaking to the like effect ; or
1.3 notify to dealers, or otherwise publish on or in relation to replica football kit, a price stated or
calculated to be understood as the minimum price which may be charged on the resale of
replica football kit in the United Kingdom ; or
1.4 withhold supplies of replica football kit from a dealer seeking to obtain them for resale in the
United Kingdom on the ground that the dealer:
1.4.1 has sold in the United Kingdom at a price below the resale price* replica football kit
obtained, either directly or indirectly, from you, or has supplied such replica football
kit, either directly or indirectly, to a third party who had done so; or
1.4.2 is likely, if the replica football kit is supplied to him, to sell it in the United Kingdom at
a price below that price, or supply it, either directly or indirectly, to a third party who
would be likely to do so.
2.
You shall not be prevented from recommending resale prices to dealers provided no impression is
given that, in doing so, you are notifying a minimum price.
3.
You may, notwithstanding any of the foregoing, withhold supplies from a dealer, or cause or
procure a supplier to do so, if it has reasonable cause to believe that within the previous 12 months
the dealer, or any other dealer to whom the dealer supplies goods has been using as a loss-leader
any replica football kit whether or not obtained from the Club.
* In this paragraph 1.4.1 resale price in relation to a sale of any description means any price notified to the dealer or
otherwise published by you as the price or minimum price which is to be charged on or is recommended as appropriate for
a sale of that description, or any price prescribed or purporting to be prescribed for that purpose by a contract or
agreement between the dealer and you.
450
APPENDIX 11
RULES GOVERNING APPLICATIONS FOR UEFA CLUB LICENCES
Rule A.1.96 Licensing Manual means the manual in which are set out procedures agreed
between the Football Association and the League relating to applications for and the granting of
licences enabling Clubs (or clubs) to play in UEFA Club Competitions..
2.
Rule A.1.177 UEFA Club Licence means the licence granted by the Football Association in
accordance with the procedures set out in the Licensing Manual enabling Clubs (or clubs) to play in
UEFA Club Competitions.
3.
Rule E.3 Each Club shall by 1st March in each Season submit to the Secretary a copy of its annual
accounts in respect of its most recent financial year or if the Club considers it appropriate or the
Secretary so requests the Group Accounts of the Group of which it is a member (in either case such
accounts to be prepared and audited in accordance with applicable legal and regulatory
requirements) together with a copy of the directors report for that year and a copy of the auditors
report on those accounts.
4.
Rule E.4 The accounts referred to in Rule E.3 shall:
4.1 include separate disclosure within the balance sheet or notes to the accounts, or by way of
supplementary information separately reported on by its auditors by way of procedures
specified by the Board, of the total sums payable and receivable in respect of Compensation
Fees, Contingent Sums and Loan Fees;
4.2 include a breakdown within the profit and loss account or the notes to the accounts, or by
way of supplementary information separately reported on by its auditors by way of
procedures specified by the Board, of revenue in appropriate categories such as gate receipts,
sponsorship and advertising, broadcasting rights, commercial income and other income.
5.
Rule E.5 If the auditors report on the accounts submitted pursuant to Rule E.3 contains anything
other than an unqualified opinion without modification, the Club shall at the Boards request
submit such further documentary evidence as the Board shall require (including but not limited to
Future Financial Information).
6.
Rule E.6 If the annual accounts of a Club or Group Accounts submitted pursuant to Rule E.3 are
prepared to a date prior to 30th November in the Season of submission, such Club or Group shall by
the following 31st March submit to the Secretary interim accounts covering the period commencing
from its accounting reference date and ending on a date between the following 30th November
and 1st March.
7.
Rule E.7 The interim accounts shall:
7.1 comprise a balance sheet, a profit and loss account, a cash flow statement and relevant
explanatory notes;
7.2 be prepared in accordance with the accounting principles adopted in the preparation of the
Clubs annual accounts;
7.3 be presented in a similar format to the annual accounts including as regards the matters set
out in Rule E.4;
7.4 include in the profit and loss account and cashflow statement comparative figures for the
same period in the preceding year;
451
APPENDICES TO THE RULES
1.
APPENDIX 11
7.5 include a balance sheet as of the end of the preceding financial year;
7.6 be approved in writing by the board of directors of the company to which they relate; and
7.7 be reviewed or audited in accordance with applicable regulatory requirements.
8.
Rule E.8 Rule E.5 shall apply to the interim accounts (with appropriate modification) if the
auditors have issued anything other than an unqualified opinion without modification on them.
9.
Rule E.9 Each Club must by 7th April (or such later date as the Board shall specify) in each Season
prove that, subject to Rule E.10:
9.1 no Compensation Fee, Loan Fee or Contingent Sum payable pursuant to a Transfer Agreement
entered into prior to the preceding 31st December; and
9.2 no sum payable to or in respect of an employee in relation to services provided prior to the
preceding 31st December (including PAYE and NIC)
APPENDICES TO THE RULES
10. Rule E.10 For the purpose of Rule E.9:
10.1 employee means a Player, a Manager, any Official referred to in Rule J.1, an Academy
Manager, an Assistant Academy Manager, a team doctor and senior physiotherapist referred
to in Rule O.11 and a safety officer;
10.2 an amount shall not be treated as overdue as at 31st March if by that date it has been paid or
the date for payment has been extended by means of a written agreement with the creditor
or it is the subject of current litigation or arbitration proceedings or has been submitted to a
dispute resolution procedure of the League, the Football Association, UEFA or FIFA.
11. Rule E.11 By 31st March in each Season, each Club shall submit to the Secretary in respect of itself
(or if the Club considers it appropriate or the Secretary so requests in respect of the Group of which
it is a member) future financial information (Future Financial Information) comprising projected
profit and loss accounts, cash flow, balance sheets and relevant explanatory notes commencing
from its accounting reference date or, if it has submitted interim accounts pursuant to Rule E.6,
from the date to which those interim accounts were prepared and expiring on the next accounting
reference date after the end of the following Season. The projected profit and loss accounts, cash
flow and balance sheets shall be prepared at a maximum of six-monthly intervals.
12. Rule E.12 The Future Financial Information shall:
12.1 be prepared in accordance with the accounting principles adopted in the preparation of the
Clubs annual accounts (except where the accounting principles and policies are to be
changed in the subsequent annual accounts, in which case the new accounting principles and
polices should be followed);
12.2 be approved in writing by the board of directors of the company to which they relate; and
12.3 to include in the explanatory notes thereto principal assumptions and risks; and
12.4 include for comparison profit and loss accounts for the period covered by the annual accounts
and interim accounts submitted pursuant to Rules E.3 and E.6, a forecast for the current
financial year and a balance sheet as at the date of the interim accounts submitted pursuant
to Rule E.6.
452
APPENDIX 11
13. Rule J.7 Any Club, Authorised Signatory or other Official making a false statement (whether
made verbally or in writing) in or in connection with an application for a UEFA Club Licence or
falsifying a document produced in support of or in connection with such an application shall be in
breach of these Rules and shall be liable to be dealt with in accordance with the provisions of
Section W of these Rules (Disciplinary).
14. Rule K.17 For UEFA Club Competitions the pitch must measure 105 metres in length by 68 metres
in breadth exactly. If for technical reasons of a construction related nature it is impossible to
achieve the required dimensions a UEFA Club Licence may nevertheless be granted provided that
the pitch is minimum 100 metres to maximum 105 metres in length by minimum 64 metres to
maximum 68 metres in breadth.
15. Rule L.11 Qualification for UEFA club competitions shall be on sporting merit through domestic
competitions controlled or sanctioned by the Football Association. Clubs qualifying for a UEFA
club competition must apply for a UEFA Club Licence in accordance with the Licensing Manual.
16. Rule P.13 A Club which applies for a UEFA Licence must, in addition to employing a Manager,
employ an individual (such as an assistant manager or head coach) to assist the Manager in all
football matters relating to the first team.
APPENDICES TO THE RULES
453
APPENDIX 12
REGULATIONS OF THE PROFESSIONAL FOOTBALL COMPENSATION COMMITTEE
APPENDICES TO THE RULES
Definitions
1. In these Regulations:
1.1 Club means a football club in membership of the Premier League or the Football League;
1.2
Compensation Fee means any sum of money (exclusive of Value Added Tax) payable by a
Transferee Club to a Transferor Club upon the transfer of the registration of a Player;
1.3 the Football League means The Football League Limited;
1.4 PFNCC means the Professional Football Negotiating and Consultative Committee;
1.5
Player means a player who is the subject of an application to the Professional Football
Compensation Committee (the Committee) pursuant to Regulation 2 of these Regulations;
1.6 the Premier League means The Football Association Premier League Limited;
1.7
Secretary means the person or body appointed by the PFNCC to administer these
Regulations;
1.8 Transferee Club means a Club to which the registration of a Player has been transferred;
1.9 Transferor Club means a Club from which the registration of a Player has been transferred.
Jurisdiction
2. The Committee shall determine applications made pursuant to:
2.1 Premier League Rules T.38, V.27.2 and Youth Development Rules 332 and 346.2;
2.2 Football League Regulations 60.20, 60.21, 60.22, 64.5 and Football League Youth Development
Rules 294 and 308.2;
2.3 appeals from a decision of the Board of the Football League made pursuant to Football League
Regulation 63.1.
3.
In making a determination as aforesaid, the Committee shall take into account the costs set out in
Regulation 4 and any of the following criteria:
3.1 the status of each of the Transferor Club and the Transferee Club;
3.2 the age of the Player;
3.3 the Training Model(s) (as that term is defined in Youth Development Rule 1.78) on which the
Player was engaged with the Transferor Club;
3.4 the amount of any fee paid by the Transferor Club upon acquiring the registration of the Player;
3.5 the length of time during which the Transferor Club held the registration of the Player;
3.6 the terms of the new contract offered to him by both the Transferor Club and the Transferee Club;
3.7 his playing record including any international appearances;
3.8 substantiated interest shown by other clubs in acquiring the registration of the Player.
4.
The costs to be taken into account under Regulation 3 shall be:
4.1 any cost incurred by either Club in operating an Academy, a Football Academy or Centre of
Excellence including (without limitation) the cost of providing for players attending thereat:
4.1.1 living accommodation;
4.1.2 training and playing facilities;
4.1.3 scouting, coaching, administrative and other staff;
4.1.4 education and welfare requirements;
4.1.5 playing and training strip and other clothing;
4.1.6 medical and first aid facilities;
4.1.7 friendly and competitive matches and overseas tours;
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APPENDIX 12
4.2
any other cost incurred by either Club directly or indirectly attributable to the training and
development of players including any fee referred to in Regulation 3.3.
Composition of the Committee
5. The Committee shall be composed of:
5.1 an independent chairman with an appropriate legal background who, subject to the prior
written approval of the Premier League, the Football League and The Professional Footballers
Association, shall be appointed by the PFNCC in such terms as it thinks fit;
5.2 an appointee of each of the leagues of which the Transferor Club and the Transferee Club are
members or, if the Transferor Club and the Transferee Club are both members of the same
league, an appointee of that league;
5.3 an appointee of The Professional Footballers Association;
5.4 an appointee of The League Managers Association.
If the chairman of the Committee is unable to act or to continue acting as such in the determination
of any application, the PFNCC shall appoint in his stead a person with an appropriate legal
background.
7.
If following his appointment any other member of the Committee is unable to act or to continue
acting, his appointor may appoint a replacement so that the composition of the Committee is
maintained as provided in Regulation 5.
8.
If the members of the Committee fail to agree, they shall decide by a majority provided that, if the
Committee is composed of an even number of members, the chairman shall have a second or
casting vote.
Committee Procedures
9. The parties to proceedings before the Committee shall be the Transferor Club and the Transferee Club.
10. Proceedings shall be commenced by either party making a written application to the Secretary:
10.1 identifying the respondent Club and the Player;
10.2
setting out the facts surrounding the application including the criteria referred to in
Regulation 3;
10.3 identifying any documents relied upon, copies of which shall be annexed; and
10.4 in the case of an application made by a Transferor Club, giving full particulars of the costs set
out in Regulation 4.
11. Each Club which is a party in proceedings shall pay an administration fee to the Secretary the
amount of which will be determined by the PFNCC from time to time.
12. Upon receipt of an application the Secretary shall:
12.1 procure that for the purpose of determining the application the Committee is composed in
accordance with Regulation 5;
12.2 send a copy of the application and any documents annexed to it to the chairman;
12.3 send a copy of the same by recorded delivery post to the respondent.
455
APPENDICES TO THE RULES
6.
APPENDIX 12
13. Within 14 days of receipt of the copy application the respondent shall send to the Secretary by
recorded delivery post a written response to the application, annexing thereto copies of any
documents relied upon, and, in the case of a response by a Transferor Club, giving full particulars of
the costs set out in Regulation 4.
14. Upon receipt of the response the Secretary shall send a copy thereof together with a copy of any
document annexed to:
14.1 the chairman; and
14.2 the party making the application.
15. The chairman of the Committee shall give directions as he thinks fit for the future conduct of the
proceedings addressed in writing to the parties with which the parties shall comply without delay.
APPENDICES TO THE RULES
16. The Committee by its chairman shall have power to summon any person to attend the hearing of
the proceedings to give evidence and to produce documents and any person who is bound by these
Regulations and who, having been summoned, fails to attend or to give evidence or to produce
documents shall be in breach of these Regulations.
17. Upon the Chairmans directions having been complied with or time for compliance having passed
the Secretary shall make all necessary arrangements for the hearing of the proceedings (including
supplying a full copy of all documents necessary for the hearing to each member of the Committee)
and shall give written notice of the date, time and place thereof to the parties.
18. If a party to the proceedings fails to attend the hearing the Committee may either adjourn it or
proceed in their absence.
19. The chairman of the Committee shall have an overriding discretion as to the manner in which the
hearing of the proceedings shall be conducted.
20. The Committee shall not be bound by any enactment or rule of law relating to the admissibility of
evidence in proceedings before a court of law.
21. The hearing shall be conducted in private.
22. Each party shall be entitled to be represented at the hearing by a solicitor or counsel provided that
they shall have given to the other party and to the chairman of the Committee 14 days prior
written notice to that effect.
23. The Committees decision shall be announced as soon as practicable and if possible at the end of
the hearing and shall be confirmed in writing by the Secretary to the parties.
24. The Committee shall give reasons for its decision.
25. The decision of the Committee shall be final and binding.
456
APPENDIX 12
Fees and Expenses
26. The chairman and members of the Committee shall be entitled to receive fees and expenses in
such sum or sums as shall be determined by the PFNCC from time to time.
Committees Powers
27. Upon determining an application made in accordance with the provisions of these Regulations, the
Committee may make an order with regard to the amount and payment of a Compensation Fee
and any other order as it thinks fit.
Amendments
28. No amendment to these Regulations shall be proposed or made without the prior written approval
of the Premier League, the Football League and the Professional Footballers Association.
APPENDICES TO THE RULES
457
APPENDIX 13
THE HEALTH AND SAFETY OF ACADEMY PLAYERS ON RESIDENTIAL TOURS,
FESTIVALS, TOURNAMENTS AND VISITS CODE OF PRACTICE
(Youth Development Rule 186)
INTRODUCTION
1.1 The health and safety of Academy Players is the prime consideration of Academies.
1.2 Academy Players may be particularly vulnerable on Tours. Academy Managers must therefore
ensure detailed planning of Tours and careful supervision of Academy Players taking part in
them. Special attention must be paid to safety. Safety must always over-ride cost.
1.3 The Department for Education and Skills (DfES) sets out guidance and recommended practice
relevant to the conduct of Tours. This advice is available on the DfES website. Academy
Managers, Tours Co-ordinators and Tour Leaders should familiarise themselves with this advice,
and it should also be drawn to the attention of all Staff who accompany Tours.
2.
DEFINITIONS
In this Code definitions from Premier League Rules (including the Youth Development Rules) are
adopted, together with following additional definitions:
Academy Player has the meaning set out in Youth Development Rule 1.7 save that in this Code
it also includes a Trialist and all Contract Players under the age of 18.
Club Secretary is the title applied to the clubs senior administrative officer.
Home Contact Person is the person designated by the Tour Leader to remain near the Football
Academy for the duration of the Tour.
Scholar means an Academy Player registered with a Club on a Scholarship Agreement.
Staff includes employees of the Club and volunteers accompanying the Tour.
Tour includes any series of matches, Festival, Tournament or other visit arranged by the Academy
involving its Academy Players either in the United Kingdom or abroad.
Tours Co-ordinator is the person designated by the Academy Manager to undertake the duties
set out in paragraph 3.3.
Tour Leader is the person in charge of planning and running a Tour.
3.
ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
3.1 The Club is legally responsible for everything its Academy does. The Club Secretary must
always be notified, on behalf of the Club, in advance of any Academy Tour.
3.2 The Academy Manager is responsible to the Club for the safety of Academy Players at all
times. The Academy Manager must:
3.2.1 designate a member of staff of the Academy (who may be the Academy Manager) to
be Tours Co-ordinator;
3.2.2 notify the League of the name of the Tours Co-ordinator in Form T1;
3.2.3 select as Tour Leader a person whose qualifications, experience and competence are
suitable (the Tour Leader may not be the Tour Co-ordinator);
3.2.4 notify the Club Secretary in Form T2 that the Tour is to take place;
3.2.5 be satisfied that the Tour has been planned and run properly and that a risk assessment
has been carried out by the Tours Co-ordinator prior to each Tour.
APPENDICES TO THE RULES
1.
3.3 Each Club shall nominate a Tours Co-ordinator. This post must be a non-coaching role and
must not be the Tour Leader. The Tours Co-ordinator shall be competent in the organisation
of Tours through experience of planning and practical leadership of Tours.
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APPENDIX 13
The Tours Co-ordinator shall be responsible to the Academy Manager for ensuring that:
3.3.1 he accompanies each Tour co-ordinated by him;
3.3.2 he maintains the Clubs Tours and Tournaments records and sends all applicable
notifications to the League;
3.3.3 a risk assessment is carried out using Form T4 and all necessary measures identified as
a result are put in place prior to each Tour;
3.3.4 the competence of the Tour Leader and other Staff proposed for a Tour is assessed;
3.3.5 competent people to act as the Tour Leader or as Staff are assigned to a Tour;
3.3.6 training of the Tour Leader and Staff is provided;
3.3.7 Enhanced CRB disclosure certificates accepted by the Club are in place for the Tour
Leader and Staff;
3.3.8 a Home Contact Person is designated for each Tour;
3.3.9 records of individual Tours, including reports of accidents and near-accidents are kept;
3.3.10 systems are reviewed and practice is monitored.
3.5 The Staff who accompany Tours are responsible to the Tour Leader. As employees of or as
volunteers well known to the Club, they must declare in Form T3 (Reply) that they:
3.5.1 accept the invitation to accompany the Tour as a member of Staff;
3.5.2 understand that their participation in the Tour is not a holiday or reward;
3.5.3 are aware of their responsibilities on the Tour;
3.5.4 they have read and understood the Premier League Rules, Policy and Code of Practice
on the Health and Safety of Academy Players on Residential Tours, Festivals,
Tournaments and Visits;
3.5.5 hold an enhanced DBS disclosure certificate accepted by the Club.
3.6
The Home Contact Person is the contact at any time of emergency between those on the
Tour and those at the Club or at home. The Home Contact Person must:
3.6.1 have the authority to make significant decisions;
3.6.2 be contactable and available at all times for the full duration of the Tour either in
person or through the back-up person referred to below;
3.6.3 in liaison with the Club Secretary and Tours Co-ordinator have responsibility for
contacts with the media and the Health and Safety Executive, if appropriate, in the
event of death or serious accident, injury or emergency on the Tour;
3.6.4 have a back-up person and telephone number.
459
APPENDICES TO THE RULES
3.4 The Tour Leader is responsible to the Academy Manager for every aspect of the Tour. The
Tour Leader must:
3.4.1 have experience in supervising Academy Players of the age group(s) participating in
the Tour;
3.4.2
be capable of organising effectively the Tour, the accompanying Staff and the
Academy Players;
3.4.3 read and always act in accordance with the principles of this Appendix 13;
3.4.4 ensure Staff who accompany Tours are aware of their responsibilities.
APPENDIX 13
4.
RISK ASSESSMENT
4.1 The Tour Leader is responsible for carrying out a risk assessment for the Tour. The Tour Leader
may delegate this to the Tours Co-ordinator provided that the latter has sufficient expertise
and experience to undertake it but the Tour Leader shall retain ultimate responsibility for the
risk assessment. The risk assessment must be recorded in writing in Form T4 and both it and all
other records must be filed at the Academy. The Tour Leader must consider potential hazards
and what safety measures should be taken to avoid them. The Tour Leader must consider what
will be done in the event of a serious accident, injury or emergency.
4.2 If Academy Players are to be allowed to swim or be involved in any water activity whilst on the
Tour, the Tour Leader must establish the swimming competence of each Academy Player. The
Tour Leader must arrange lifeguard supervision.
4.3 If the Tour is to involve experience of adventure or other high risk activity the Tour Leader
must act in accordance with the guidance in the DfES supplement Part 2 Standards for
Adventure. If a specialist provider is engaged, the Tour Leader must obtain written
confirmation from that provider that a current licence issued by the Adventure Activities
Licensing Authority is held for the activity in question.
APPENDICES TO THE RULES
Note: The Health and Safety Executive has produced a leaflet 5 Steps to Risk Assessment as a simple guide.
This leaflet is available from www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/indg163.pdf.
5.
ADVANCE VISIT
Unless previously visited by or otherwise known to the Tour Leader, the Tour Leader must visit the
Tour venue(s) in advance. The Tour Leader must check arrangements for travel, accommodation
(including food and drink), playing and training and medical facilities, communications, laundry
and opportunities for recreation.
6.
THE TOUR PLANS
The Tour Leaders plans must include consideration of the
age of Academy Players
nature of the Tour, particularly if non football activities are involved
ratio of Staff to Academy Players
qualifications and experience of Staff
description and rota of Staff duties, including designation of Staff to carry and use first aid
equipment
medical or other special needs of individual Academy Players
travel arrangements
contingency measures for a change of plan or late return including arrangements for sending a
Academy Player home early
insurances
communication arrangements
emergency procedures
designation and briefing of the Home Contact Person
460
APPENDIX 13
MEDICAL SUPPORT AND EQUIPMENT
7.1 One member of the Staff should be a physiotherapist who should meet the requirements for
physiotherapists qualifications set out in the Youth Development Rules. The physiotherapist
should be responsible for taking first aid equipment and treating Academy Players on the Tour.
7.2 If a qualified physiotherapist does not accompany the Tour, one or more members of Staff
must hold a current recognised First Aid at Work qualification. In this case, the Tour Leader
must arrange for a qualified physiotherapist to provide the first aid equipment to be taken on
the Tour and for first aid to be administered by these Staff.
7.3 All Staff must know how to contact emergency services.
7.4 A smart phone capable of receiving email must be carried with the group at all times.
8.
SUPERVISION ARRANGEMENTS
8.1 The minimum number of Staff accompanying the Tour must be 1 to every 8 Academy Players.
8.2 The Tour Leader must tell Staff what their supervisory responsibilities are. All Staff must
carry at all times a list of the names of Academy Players on the Tour.
8.3 No member of Staff should be left alone with a Academy Player, particularly in bedrooms and
changing/shower areas.
8.4 The Tour Leader should tell Staff about Academy Players who need closer supervision,
whether due to special medical, behaviour or other reasons.
8.5 Roll calls should take place frequently and must be made before the group leaves a venue.
Academy Players must be given rendezvous points and told what to do if they become
separated from the group. Academy Players should carry the address and telephone number
of their accommodation.
8.6 During Academy Players free time, Staff must continue to supervise them. This should be
explained to the Academy Players.
8.7 Academy Players on the Tour should be easily identifiable and should wear Club kit unless the
Tour Leader is advised otherwise. Academy Players should not wear name badges unless
these are required by a tournament or festival organiser.
9.
TRAVEL
9.1 Only vehicles fitted with appropriate seat restraints shall be used for transporting Academy
Players and Clubs shall comply with all legal requirements concerning the use of seat
restraints and seatbelts by children.
9.2 Drivers should not travel alone with a Academy Player. If this is unavoidable, the Academy
Player should sit in a rear seat.
9.3 A driver of a vehicle carrying a group of Academy Players should not be given responsibility
for their supervision. A member of Staff should travel in the vehicle for this purpose.
9.4 In the case of vehicles owned by the Club or hired without a driver the Tour Leader must be
satisfied that the vehicle is insured appropriately and that the driver is competent to drive the
particular vehicle and holds the correct driving licence.
Note: Academy Managers should consider requiring all Staff drivers of minibuses owned or hired by
the Club to pass a Passenger Carrying Vehicle test.
9.5 In the case of vehicles hired with a driver, the hire contract must be in writing with a reputable
operator. It must require that the appropriate insurance applies and that the driver is
competent to drive the particular vehicle and holds the correct driving licence.
461
APPENDICES TO THE RULES
7.
APPENDIX 13
10. INSURANCE FOR THE TOUR
10.1 The Tours Co-ordinator should establish with the Club Secretary what insurance cover the
Club has in place for Football Academy Academy Players (as defined in this Code) and Staff
(as defined in this Code) on Tours.
The following are examples
employers liability
public liability
personal accident cover for Staff and Academy Players
cost of medical treatment and the cost of evacuation for medical reasons when abroad
programmed and non-programmed activities
transport and accommodation expenses in case of emergency
compensation for cancellation or delay
compensation for loss of baggage and personal effects including money
legal assistance in the recovery of claims
APPENDICES TO THE RULES
The Club Secretarys advice should include information about conditions, limitation of cover
and exclusion of certain people or activities from the insurance policies and should be filed at
the Football Academy.
10.2 If the Tour is to involve experience of adventure or other high risk activity (for instance
mountaineering and other sports and adventure experiences) particular care should be taken
to ensure that Academy Players and Staff are covered.
10.3 The Tours Co-ordinator must ascertain the details of insurances held by the Club.
10.4 The Tours Co-ordinator must ascertain the details of the Department of Trade and Industry
approved bonding and any insurances held by any travel or tour operator involved in the Tour.
10.5 Additional insurance may be necessary for Staff or Academy Players with known medical
conditions. The Tours Co-ordinator should check this, well before the departure date.
Notes:
Tours Co-ordinators should ensure that Parents are advised that whilst insurance compensation for serious
disabling accidental injuries to Academy Players may be substantial, compensation for accidental death of
children is usually limited.
For foreign Tours and for Tours involving experience of adventure or other high risk activity the advice of
insurance companies and travel firms on suitable insurance should also be sought.
11. ACCOMMODATION
11.1 Where Academy Players are to stay with host families, the Tour Leader must seek to ensure
that the suitability of family members has been checked. To this end
11.1.1
the Tour Leader must send a written request to the organiser of the host
accommodation for written assurance that a suitability check has been carried out;
11.1.2 the request and reply must be kept on file at the Academy.
11.2 If an appropriate assurance is not given, the Tour Leader must reconsider whether the Tour
should take place.
11.3 If group accommodation is used, the Tour Leader must be satisfied that buildings meet health
and safety standards.
462
APPENDIX 13
11.4 In such accommodation, rooms occupied by Staff should be close to Academy Players
rooms. On arrival, Academy Players should be shown the accommodation plan including the
location of Staff rooms and fire exits. A fire drill must be carried out as soon as possible.
11.5 Staff must use changing, shower and cloakroom facilities separately from Academy Players.
12. SCHOOL AGE ACADEMY PLAYERS CONSIDERED FOR SELECTION FOR A TOUR
Communications with Parents
12.1 The Tour Leader must obtain the consent in Form T5 of the Parents of all Academy Players to
be considered for the Tour.
12.2 When Form T5 is sent to Parents, preliminary details of the Tour, including pick up and set
down arrangements for Academy Players at the beginning and end of the Tour, must
be attached.
12.3 If his Parents do not complete and return Form T5 to the Academy, the Academy Player must
not be selected for the Tour.
13. SCHOOL AGE ACADEMY PLAYERS SELECTED FOR THE TOUR
Communications with Parents
13.1 The Tour Leader should invite Parents to a briefing meeting about the Tour. This is particularly
important in the case of younger Academy Players or those Academy Players going on a Tour
for the first time.
13.2 The Tour Leader must give to Parents written details of the Tour including the
dates of the Tour
times of the departure and return
pick up and set down points for Academy Players at the beginning and at the end of the Tour
names of the Tour Leader and accompanying Staff
details of football and non-football activities (adventure or other potentially hazardous
activities on the Tour must be emphasised)
addresses and telephone numbers of the accommodation at which Academy Players will stay
security arrangements
telephone numbers of the Home Contact Person
insurances
standards of behaviour and dress
clothing and playing equipment to be taken
maximum amount of pocket money allowed
Communications with schools
13.3 If the Tour is in school time, the Tour Leader
13.3.1 must ensure that the Academy Players Parents send confirmation to the headteacher
of the school attended by the Academy Player that the Academy Player will be absent;
13.3.2 should liaise with the Head of Education of the Academy in order to facilitate and
support the completion by the Academy Player of any work set by the school.
463
APPENDICES TO THE RULES
Communications with schools
12.4 Tours for school age Academy Players should normally be arranged in school holidays.
12.5 If the Tour is in school time, then, for Academy Players being considered for the Tour, the Tour
Leader must:
12.5.1 obtain in Form T5 permission from the Academy Players Parents to approach the
school attended by the Academy Player; and
12.5.2 request in Form T6 the headteacher of the Academy Players school to give consent
to the Academy Players release from school.
APPENDIX 13
14. SCHOLARS AND CONTRACT PLAYERS UNDER 18 YEARS OF AGE
Communications with Parents
APPENDICES TO THE RULES
14.1 The Parents of Scholars and Contract Players under 18 years of age must be informed in
writing by the Academy Manager that the Academy Player may go on Tours from time to
time. The Parents must be asked to give their general consent in Form T7. If the parents do
not give that general consent, the Academy Player must not go on Tours.
14.2 When the Academy Player is selected for a Tour, the Parents must be notified by the Tour
Leader in writing of
the Tour dates
details of football and non-football activities (adventure or other potentially hazardous
activities on the Tour must be emphasised)
venues
accommodation addresses
details of the Home Contact Person for the Tour
15. PREPARING ACADEMY PLAYERS FOR THE TOUR
The Tour Leader must tell Academy Players
the standards of behaviour and dress expected of them, both on and off the football field
the safety precautions, including supervision arrangements, to be taken
to wear seatbelts, when fitted, whilst travelling in cars, minibuses or coaches
which expenses will be their own responsibility and which will be met by the Academy.
16. DOCUMENTATION ON THE TOUR
The Tour Leader must carry the following documentation on the Tour
a list of all group members (Staff and Academy Players) and their personal details, including
addresses and telephone numbers of Academy Players Parents
Parents consent Forms (these are necessary for dental, medical and surgical purposes)
day and night phone numbers of the Home Contact Person
name(s), address(es) and phone number(s) of the groups accommodation
the Academys accident forms
Emergency Procedure Card Form T8
17. DOCUMENTATION AT HOME
17.1 The Home Contact Person and back-up person must keep
the itinerary
names, addresses and telephone number of Parents
contact addresses and telephone numbers for Staff
a copy of the Emergency Procedure Card carried by the Tour Leader
17.2 The Academy must keep
copies of the documentation carried on the Tour by the Tour Leader
18. EMERGENCY AND ACCIDENT PROCEDURES
18.1 The Academy Manager, Tours Co-ordinator, Home Contact Person and back-up person and
Tour Leader must make themselves familiar with the procedures listed in Form T8 the
Emergency Procedures Card.
18.2 The Tour Leader must carry the Emergency Procedures Card at all times on the Tour.
18.3 If the Tour Leader is not with the group, a member of Staff with the group must carry the
Emergency Procedures Card.
464
APPENDIX 13
19. AFTER THE TOUR
The Tours Co-ordinator must notify the Premier League in Form T9 no later than 7 days after a Tour of
the names of all registered Academy Players, contract players, trialists, and Staff who went on the Tour.
20. FOREIGN TOURS ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS
Tour matches played against foreign clubs
20.1 Except in the case of matches against clubs in membership of the Scottish, Welsh or Irish
Football Associations, Clubs wishing to play a match or series of matches against members of
another national association must comply with Football Association Rule B4(b). This requires
them to apply on the prescribed forms to the Association at least 28 days before the intended
match or the first of a series of matches.
20.2 So that the Premier League may be aware of Tours that Clubs intend to undertake, on making
a Rule B4(b) application to the Football Association Clubs must send a copy of the prescribed
application form to the League.
European Health Insurance Card Free or reduced cost medical treatment
20.4 The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) is the certificate of entitlement to free or
reduced cost emergency medical treatment for EU nationals in most European countries. It
replaced Form E111 with effect from 1 January 2006. For Tours to those countries, an EHIC for
each Academy Player should be carried by the Tour Leader.
20.5 Each member of Staff should also carry his/her own EHIC.
Note:
Further information about EHICs (including as to each countrys different rules about state medical
provision) and application forms can be obtained from
www.dh.gov.uk/policyandguidance/healthadvicefortravellers.
Application forms can also be obtained from Post Offices and applications can also be made by phone
(tel. no. 0845 606 2030). EHICs will be delivered within 7 days (if the application is made on line), 10
days (if the application is made by phone) or 21 days (if the application is made by post).
Parents or guardians must apply on behalf of any children aged 15 or younger.
For ease of administration, Academy Managers should ask Parents of all Academy Players likely to
travel on a foreign Tour to obtain and return an EHIC for the Academy to issue to the Tour Leader for
the duration of the particular Tour.
Passports, visas and vaccinations
20.6 The Tour Leader must check
20.6.1 whether the state(s) to be visited will allow in travellers whose passport will expire
within a few months of entry;
20.6.2 the validity of passports of all members of the Tour.
465
APPENDICES TO THE RULES
Risk Assessment
20.3 In addition to the risk assessment carried out in Form T2, the Tour Leader should obtain the
advice of the Premier League Youth Department who may have relevant information on
foreign clubs and venuesForeign Tour organisers should be asked whether and if so to what
extent adults having direct contact with children on the Tour have been screened in respect
of their suitability for that purpose.
APPENDIX 13
Notes:
Academy Players who are not British nationals
may need a visa to travel to another EU member state
are not eligible for inclusion in a Collective Passport.
Some tournaments require passports with photographs for player identification purposes. Collective
Passports do not contain photographs.
20.7 If any Academy Player is subject to a care order or is a ward of court, the social services
department of the local authority or the court must be consulted well in advance.
20.8 In the case of a Tour to (a) country(ies) which require(s) a visa and/or vaccinations, the Tour
Leader must ensure that the Home Contact Person or some other responsible member of
staff of the Club is also in possession of a valid visa for the country(ies) and has had the
necessary vaccinations.
Money and valuables
20.9 The Tour Leader must tell Academy Players how to carry money and valuables discreetly.
The groups money, including Academy Players own pocket money should be held at a
secure central location and distributed on a regular basis by a member of Staff.
APPENDICES TO THE RULES
Home contacts
20.10 The Tour Leader should tell Academy Players how to use local phones and give them the
code(s) for phoning home.
Documentation
20.11 In addition to the documentation carried on Tours in the United Kingdom the Tour Leader
must also carry
travel tickets
passports, visas and vaccination certificates
if a Collective Passport is being used, a head and shoulders photograph of each
Academy Player
Note:
A sight of these photographs may be required by the Tour organiser for identification purposes.
They may also be of value in case of emergency.
EHICs (if the Tour is to a European country) and significant medical histories
insurance arrangements and contact telephone numbers
address and phone number of the British Embassy or Consulate
location of hospital(s) and medical services and how to contact them
a separate list of the numbers of any documents and passports
20.12 The Home Contact Person must be provided with appropriate matching documentation.
Mobile phone
20.13 The mobile phone carried with the group must be capable of use in the country concerned.
Contingency funds
20.14 Contingency funds (or access to them) must be taken.
466
ACADEMY TOURS
Form T1
TOURS CO-ORDINATOR NOTIFICATION (Appx.13 paragraph 3.2.2)
To:
The Secretary
From:
Football Club
The Premier League
Please note that I have appointed (name)
to be Tours Co-ordinator.
Signed
Academy Manager
Date
APPENDICES TO THE RULES
467
ACADEMY TOURS
Form T2
TOUR NOTIFICATION (Appx.13 paragraph 3.2.4)
The Academy Manager must complete this form and return it to the Club Secretary in advance of the Tour.
Copies should be retained by the Academy Manager, the Tours Co-ordinator and the Tour Leader. The Club
Secretary should be informed of any subsequent material changes in the Tour arrangements.
1.
Tour Leader
Name
Mobile Phone Number when on Tour
Email address* when on Tour
APPENDICES TO THE RULES
*email address to be accessible via a smart phone which must be taken on the Tour
2.
Purpose of Tour
3.
Places to be visited
4.
Dates and times
5.
Transport arrangements
Staff drivers
Names
Vehicle registration number(s)
Name of transport company (if any)
6.
Tour Operator (if any)
7.
Insurance
Club Insurance Policies (list those which apply)
Additional Policies (specify)
468
TOUR NOTIFICATION
Form T2
8.
Accommodation to be used (addresses and phone numbers)
9.
Details of the programme of activities (attach Tour itinerary)
10. Details of any potentially hazardous activities
Licence reference number if a provider is registered with the Adventure Activities Licensing Authority
11. Names and any special responsibilities (e.g. medical) of Staff
APPENDICES TO THE RULES
Name
Responsibility
12. Name, address and telephone numbers of the Home Contact Person
13. Existing knowledge of places to be visited and whether an exploratory visit is intended
469
TOUR NOTIFICATION
Form T2
14. Size and composition of the group
Age Group(s)
Number of Academy Players:
Staff to Academy Player ratio:
15. Parents Consent
(a) Attach a copy of information sent to Parents.
(b) Either
I certify that Parents consents have been obtained
Or
I certify that Parents consents will be obtained before the Tour.
APPENDICES TO THE RULES
16. Names of Academy Players with special or medical needs:
17. Certification
I certify that the Tour Leader has read the DfES document Health and Safety of Pupils on Educational
Visits: A Good Practice Guide and the accompanying supplement and that a risk assessment for the
Tour has been carried out and has been filed in the Academy.
Signed
Academy Manager
Date
470
ACADEMY TOURS
Form T3
STAFF DECLARATION (Appx.13 paragraph 3.5)
A copy of the Premier League Code of Practice on the Health and Safety of Academy Players on Residential
Tours, Festivals, Tournaments and Visits must be attached to this Form.
Football Club
To all staff accompanying the tour to
On
HEALTH AND SAFETY OF ACADEMY PLAYERS
Signed
Tour Leader
Date
471
APPENDICES TO THE RULES
This confirms the invitation to you to accompany the above Tour as a member of Staff. All employees of
the Academy and volunteers accompanying the Tour on behalf of the Academy are regarded as members
of Staff. The safety of Academy Players on the Tour is paramount. I strongly advise you to read the
Department for Education and Skills booklet Health and Safety of Pupils on Educational Visits: A Good
Practice Guide and the accompanying supplement. A copy is available in the Football Academy office.
You must read the Premier League Code of Practice referred to above, which is attached, and you must
complete and return to me the attached Form T3 Reply.
STAFF DECLARATION
To:
Form T3 Reply
The Tour Leader
Football Club
I accept the invitation to accompany the proposed Tour to
on
I have received and have read the Premier League Code of Practice.
I declare that:
APPENDICES TO THE RULES
I understand that my participation in the Tour is not a holiday or reward
I am aware of my responsibilities on the Tour
I have read and understood the Premier League Rules, Policy and Code of Practice on the Health and
Safety of Academy Players on Residential Tours, Festivals, Tournaments and Visits
I hold a CRB enhanced Disclosure certificate
Signed
Date
472
ACADEMY TOURS
Form T4
RISK ASSESSMENT FORM (Appx.13 paragraph 4.1)
For Tours in the United Kingdom, this Form must be completed and returned to the Tours Co-ordinator at least
two weeks before the Tour. For Tours abroad, this Form must be completed and returned to the Tours Coordinator at least six weeks before the Tour. For Tours involving adventure or other potentially hazardous
activities, this Form must be completed and returned to the Tours Co-ordinator at least six weeks before the
Tour. Copies of this Form should be given to all Staff accompanying the Tour.
RISK ASSESSMENT FOR
ASSESSMENT UNDERTAKEN
On
By (Signature)
APPENDICES TO THE RULES
Print Name
Tour Leader
473
474
Who is at risk?
(e.g. Academy Players, Staff)
What are the hazards?
(e.g. setting, travel, accomodation,
weather, behaviour)
RISK ASSESSMENT FOR TOUR TO
List existing controls. Identify extra action
needed for risks for which these controls
are not adequate. (e.g. administering
medicines, accident procedures)
What safety measures are needed?
APPENDICES TO THE RULES
(This could be specific members
ofStaff)
Who is responsible?
Form T4
ACADEMY TOURS
Form T5
PARENTS CONSENT: SCHOOL AGE ACADEMY PLAYERS (Appx.13 paragraph 12.1)
Dear Parents
I attach some information regarding a Tour
proposes to arrange.
(name of Club)
If you wish your child to be considered for selection for the Tour, please complete and sign this Form and
return it to the Club by
If you do not complete the Form, your child cannot
be considered.
I shall let you know as soon as possible if your child has been selected for the Tour.
Signed
Academy Manager
APPENDICES TO THE RULES
Football Club
Date
1.
Childs Full Name
2.
Date of Birth
3.
Home Address
4.
Phone Number
5.
Childs NHS Number
475
PARENTS CONSENT: SCHOOL AGE ACADEMY PLAYERS
6.
Form T5
How can you be contacted inan emergency
(a) In the day time
Address
Phone number
(b) At night
Address
Phone number
(c) Mobile Phone
7.
Is there an alternative person to contact if you cant be reached?
APPENDICES TO THE RULES
Name
Address
Phone Number
8.
Is your child receiving any medical treatment? If so, please give details:
9.
Is your child taking any medicine? If so, please give details:
10. Does your child have any particular diet requirements or any other special needs? If so,
please give details:
11. When did your child last have a tetanus injection?
12. Please give your childs Doctors name, address and telephone number:
476
PARENTS CONSENT: SCHOOL AGE ACADEMY PLAYERS
Form T5
I acknowledge receipt of the information regarding the proposed Academy Tour to
on
and consent to my child taking part, if selected.
I agree to your asking my childs school for time off if the Tour is in Term time.
I agree to staff on the Tour giving permission for my child to have dental, medical or surgical treatment.
I agree to inform the Club of any changes in my childs health before departure.
I will bring my child to
and collect him from
at the beginning and end of the Tour.
My child understands that it is important, for safety reasons, to obey any rules and instructions given by the
staff in charge of the party.
Signed
APPENDICES TO THE RULES
Date
477
ACADEMY TOURS
Form T6
SCHOOL CONSENT FORM (Appx.13 paragraph 12.5.2)
(This form must be reproduced on the Clubs headed notepaper.)
Dear (Insert name of headteacher)
(Insert name of Academy Player)
As you know, (First name) is a Academy Player at our Academy.
As part of his Academy experience, (First name) is being considered for selection for a Tour
to (Venue). I am leading the Tour and am currently making the arrangements for it. The Tour
will leave on
and return on
We always try to run our Tours in school holidays but on this occasion, the dates are in term time.
APPENDICES TO THE RULES
(First name)s parents have agreed that I should write to you to ask if (First name) could be released from
school. It will be very helpful if you can let me have your reply as soon as possible.
If there are school assignments he would miss but must complete, could you send me the details? I shall
then ask our Head of Education, (Name), to do his best to see that (First name) does his work satisfactorily,
if he is selected.
If (First name) is selected for the tour, his parents will tell you.
Yours sincerely
Tour Leader
(Copy to Academy Head of Education)
478
ACADEMY TOURS
Form T7
PARENTS CONSENT: SCHOLARS & CONTRACT PLAYERS UNDER AGE 18
(Appx.13 paragraph 14.1)
Football Club
Tours, Festivals and Tournaments
Academy Players and Contract Players under the age of 18 may be selected to represent the Club in
residential Tours festivals and tournaments, other matches and visits both in the United Kingdom
and abroad.
We shall give you details of particular events that your son is to attend.
We require your general consent to your sons taking part in these events and to our giving permission for
him to have dental, medical or surgical treatment if necessary.
Signed
I give consent for (enter name)
to take part in residential Tours, festivals,
tournaments and other matches in the United Kingdom and abroad and agree to staff giving permission for
dental, medical or surgical treatment.
His Doctors name, address and telephone number is
Signed
Date
479
APPENDICES TO THE RULES
Academy Manager
Date
ACADEMY TOURS
Form T8
EMERGENCY PROCEDURES CARD (Appx.13 paragraph 16)
(FORM TO BE PRINTED ON YELLOW CARD)
FILL IN THE DETAILS ON THE BACK OF THE CARD BEFORE THE TOUR STARTS.
CARRY THE CARD AND THE INFORMATION AND MEANS TO USE IT, AT ALL TIMES.
USE IT FOLLOWING A SERIOUS ACCIDENT OR INCIDENT, THAT IS
APPENDICES TO THE RULES
an accident leading to death, serious or multiple fractures, amputation or other serious injury
any circumstances in which a party member might be at serious risk or serious illness
any unusual circumstance in which the press or media are involved or might become involved.
1.
FIRST STEPS CARE OF THE GROUP
ensure their safety from further danger
arrange search, rescue, medical care or hospitalisation of casualties as necessary
2.
NEXT STEPS WHAT HAPPENED?
Listen carefully. Using the Academy accident form if possible, write down:
What happened?
To whom?
Where?
When?
What has happened since?
Who witnessed it? (Get witnesses to sign and give their addresses)
3.
TELLING PEOPLE ABOUT THE INCIDENT
As soon as possible
inform the Home Contact Person or, if not available, the Academy office or the Club Secretary
(for Tours outside the United Kingdom) notify the British Embassy or Consulate
Whoever you contact will need to know
what happened
to whom
where
when
what has happened since
a telephone number where you can be contacted
4.
DO
keep a written record of all that happens
5.
DONT
speak to the press or media. Refer them to the Home Contact Person
admit any liability
let anyone talk to any Academy Players involved in the incident without a member of Staff
being present
480
EMERGENCY PROCEDURES CARD
Form T8
6. REMEMBER
nobody, unless they have an official capacity (e.g. the police), has a right to see anyone who does
not want to see them
if anyone tries to force a confrontation, do not do anything but call the police
try your best to be compassionate with everyone involved
(REVERSE OF THE CARD)
The
Football Club
Tour to
Dates
Name of the Tour Leader
APPENDICES TO THE RULES
481
EMERGENCY PROCEDURES CARD
Home Contact Person
Name
Address
Phone No 1
Phone No 2
Email address
Academy Office
Address
Phone No 1
Phone No 2
Email address
Club Secretary
APPENDICES TO THE RULES
Name
Address
Phone No 1
Email address
(For Tours Outside the United Kingdom)
British Embassy(ies) or Consulate(s)
Address
Phone No
482
Form T8
EMERGENCY PROCEDURES CARD
Form T8
Names of group members
Staff:
Academy Players:
APPENDICES TO THE RULES
483
ACADEMY TOURS
Form T9
TOUR REPORT (Appx.13 paragraph 19)
This Form is to be returned to the Premier League not later than 7 days after the return of the group.
FOOTBALL CLUB
TOUR TO
PLAYING DATES
From
To
TRAVELLING DATES
Out
APPENDICES TO THE RULES
Return
METHOD OF TRAVEL
TRAVEL TIME
Time of leaving home base
Arrival time at accomodation
Time of leaving accommodation
Arrival time at home base
TOUR LEADER AND POSITION HELD AT FOOTBALL CLUB
NAMES OF ALL ACCOMPANYING STAFF (INCLUDING VOLUNTEERS) & POSITIONS HELD ON TOUR
(e.g. Physiotherapist)
484
TOUR REPORT
Form T9
LIST OF PLAYERS Please indicate whether Contract (C), Scholar (Sc), Academy Player (S) or Trialist (T)
NAMES OF ANY OTHER ACCOMPANYING PERSON(S)
DETAILS OF ANY ACCIDENTS OR NEAR ACCIDENTS
Tours Co-ordinator
Date
485
APPENDICES TO THE RULES
Signed
TOUR REPORT
Form T9
FOR THE YOUTH TEAM TOURS CO-ORDINATORS DATABASE
Tours Co-ordinators are requested to complete and attach the Youth Team Tours Co-ordinators
Questionnaire on quality aspects of the Tour.
QUESTIONNAIRE
Club
Name of Tour
Final position obtained (if any)
What time of year does the
Tour usually take place?
Easter
Whitsun
Summer
Mode of travel
Air
Coach
Train
Other
For Tournaments:
How would you rate the
overall organisation?
Poor
Fair
Good
Very good
Poor
Fair
Good
Very good
Quality of pitches
Poor
Fair
Good
Very good
Was an English speaking
personpresent?
YES
NO
Accommodation
Hotel
Hostel
Home stay
Other
APPENDICES TO THE RULES
Approximate cost to the Club
(ifany)
Number of Games
Arrangement and
planning ofgames
Opposition
486
TOUR REPORT
Form T9
Food:
Did you have the ability
toarrange meal times to
suityourgames?
YES
NO
What was the standard
of the changing facilities?
Poor
Fair
Was there adequate
medicalprovision?
YES
NO
Was the security good?
YES
NO
Was there provision
for kit storage?
YES
NO
Good
Very good
Good
Very good
What was the
standard of referees?
Poor
Fair
APPENDICES TO THE RULES
What arrangements were made for training, planning and debriefing?
For Tournaments: what pre-tournament information was provided?
Do they produce a programme? YES
NO
Are any facilities available
for anyother activities?
NO
YES
If YES, please specify
Any other comments
487
APPENDIX 14: CODE OF CONDUCT
CODE OF CONDUCT FOR ACADEMY PLAYERS OF COMPULSORY SCHOOL AGE
(Youth Development Rule 189)
Prior to signing this Code of Conduct and registering the Academy Player at its Academy, full discussion
has taken place and agreement has been reached between the Academy, the Academy Player and the
parents as to the educational, technical and match programme to be provided by the Academy to the
Academy Player.
(the Academy Player) has the potential to become a footballer at the highest level and will be registered
as an Academy Player at the
FC (the Club).
Both the Academy Player and the Academy Players parents understand that the Club is committed to the
Academy Players well being, future development and realisation of potential, but that the level of
achievement ultimately reached cannot be guaranteed.
APPENDICES TO THE RULES
In registering the Academy Player at its Football Academy, the Club, the parents and the Academy Player
agree to the following Code of Conduct.
THE CLUB AGREES TO PROVIDE
a safe environment in which the Academy Player can learn and develop without fear of abuse
medical screening, monitoring and support for the Academy Player
a structured football learning programme, appropriate to the age, ability and growth of the
Academy Player
participation in football matches arranged or approved by the Premier League
trained, screened and qualified coaching and other staff and facilities as determined by the rules
governing Academies
guidelines to the Academy Player and parents on the best ways for them to contribute to the
Academy Players football and personal development
educational support (in consultation with the Academy Players school) for the continued academic
and personal development of the Academy Player
regular communication and reports to the Academy Player and parents on the Students progress
a Code of Conduct and Rules for its Academy
THE ACADEMY PLAYER AGREES TO
488
a ttend the Academy regularly and punctually, behave with self-discipline and give notice of and
reasons for any absence
practise the techniques and skills taught by the Academy and attempt to apply them in matches
participate in football matches outside normal school hours only as specified by the Academy
attend school regularly and punctually, complete school assignments and behave at school as at
the Academy
follow a lifestyle appropriate to development spending leisure time positively; eating, drinking,
relaxing and sleeping sensibly
adhere to the Clubs Code of Conduct and Rules for its Academy
APPENDIX 14
THE PARENTS AGREE TO
e ncourage and help the Academy Player meet targets, including this Code of Conduct and the Clubs
Code of Conduct and Rules for its Academy
support the Academy Player without pressure, praise good work and refrain from criticising lapses
set a good example to the Academy Player
respect the opportunity given to the Academy Player and not approach or permit any other person
to approach any other club during the currency of this registration except as allowed under the Rules
governing Academies
communicate with the Academy staff, keeping them informed about matters affecting the
Academy Player
permit the Academy Player to play only football matches outside normal school hours as specified
by the Academy
adhere to the Clubs Code of Conduct and Rules for its Academy
APPENDICES TO THE RULES
489
APPENDIX 14
We, the undersigned, agree to the Academy Code of Conduct
Name
Football Club
Signature
Name
Academy Player
APPENDICES TO THE RULES
Signature
Name
Parents
Signature
Note:
This Code of Conduct should be signed in quadruplicate, one copy being provided to the Academy Player, one
to his parents, one being submitted to the Secretary of the League in accordance with Youth Development Rule
263 and the fourth being retained by the Club.
490
APPENDICES TO THE RULES
491
492
APPENDICES TO THE RULES
MATCH OFFICIALS
MATCH OFFICIALS
NATIONAL LIST OF REFEREES
MATCH OFFICIALS
SEASON 2015/16
ADCOCK, JG (James) Nottinghamshire
ATKINSON, M (Martin) West Yorkshire
ATTWELL, SB (Stuart) Warwickshire
BANKES, P (Peter) Merseyside
BERRY, CJ (Carl) Surrey
BOND, D (Darren) Lancashire
BOYESON, C (Carl) East Yorkshire
BRATT, S (Stephen) West Midlands
BREAKSPEAR, C (Charles) Surrey
BROWN, M (Mark) East Yorkshire
BULL, M (Michael) Essex
CLARK, R (Richard) Northumberland
CLATTENBURG, M (Mark) County Durham
COLLINS, LM (Lee) Surrey
COOTE, D (David) Nottinghamshire
DAVIES, A (Andy) Hampshire
DEADMAN, D (Darren) Cambridgeshire
DEAN, ML (Mike) Wirral
DOWD, P (Phil) Staffordshire
DRYSDALE, D (Darren) Lincolnshire
DUNCAN, S (Scott) Northumberland
EAST, R (Roger) Wiltshire
ELTRINGHAM, G (Geoff) County Durham
ENGLAND, DJH (Darren) South Yorkshire
FRIEND, KA (Kevin) Leicestershire
GIBBS, PN (Phil) West Midlands
GRAHAM F (Fred) Essex
HAINES, A (Andy) Tyne & Wear
HARRINGTON, T (Tony) Cleveland
HANDLEY, D (Darren) Lancashire
HAYWOOD, M (Mark) West Yorkshire
HEYWOOD, M (Mark) Cheshire
HILL, K (Keith) Hertfordshire
HOOPER, SA (Simon) Wiltshire
HORWOOD, G (Graham) Bedfordshire
ILDERTON, EL (Eddie) Tyne & Wear
JOHNSON, KA (Kevin) Somerset
JOYCE, R (Ross) Cleveland
JONES, MJ (Michael) Cheshire
KAVANAGH, C (Chris) Lancashire
494
KETTLE, TM (Trevor) Rutland
KINSELEY, N (Nick) Essex
LANGFORD, O (Oliver) West Midlands
LEWIS, RL (Rob) Shropshire
LININGTON, JJ (James) Isle of Wight
MADLEY, AJ (Andy) West Yorkshire
MADLEY, RJ (Bobby) West Yorkshire
MALONE, BJ (Brendan) Wiltshire
MARRINER, AM (Andr) West Midlands
MARTIN, S (Stephen) Staffordshire
MASON, LS (Lee) Lancashire
MILLER, NS (Nigel) County Durham
MOHAREB, D (Dean) Cheshire
MOSS, J (Jon) West Yorkshire
NAYLOR, MA (Michael) South Yorkshire
OLIVER, M (Michael) Northumberland
PAWSON, CL (Craig) South Yorkshire
PROBERT, LW (Lee) Wiltshire
ROBINSON, T (Tim) West Sussex
RUSSELL, MP (Mick) Hertfordshire
SALISBURY, G (Graham) Lancashire
SARGINSON, CD (Chris) Staffordshire
SCOTT, GD (Graham) Oxfordshire
SHELDRAKE, D (Darren) Surrey
SIMPSON, J (Jeremy) Lancashire
STOCKBRIDGE, S (Seb) Tyne & Wear
STROUD, KP (Keith) Hampshire
SUTTON, GJ (Gary) Lincolnshire
SWABEY, L (Lee) Devon
SWARBRICK, ND (Neil) Lancashire
TAYLOR, A (Anthony) Cheshire
TIERNEY, P Paul) Lancashire
TONER, B (Ben) Lancashire
WARD, GL (Gavin) Surrey
WEBB, D (David) County Durham
WHITESTONE, D (Dean) Northamptonshire
WILLIAMSON, IG, (Iain) Berkshire
WOOLMER, KA (Andy) Northamptonshire
WRIGHT, KK (Kevin) Cambridgeshire
NATIONAL LIST OF ASSISTANT REFEREES
SEASON 2015/16
CLAYTON, S (Simon) County Durham
COGGINS, A (Anthony) Oxfordshire
COLLIN, J (Jake) Liverpool
COOK, D (Daniel) Hampshire
COOPER, IJ (Ian) Kent
COOPER, N (Nicholas) Suffolk
COPELAND, SJ (Steven) Merseyside
CORLETT, M (Matthew) Liverpool
COY, M (Martin) Durham
CROPP, B (Barry) Lancashire
CRYSELL, A (Adam) Essex
DA COSTA, A (Anthony) Cambridge
DABBS, R (Robert) Dorset
DAGUILAR, M (Michael) Staffordshire
DALE, A (Alan) Suffolk
DALY, SDJ (Stephen) Middlesex
DAVIES, N (Neil) Merseyside
DAVISON, P (Paul) Durham
DEGNARAIN, A (Ashvin) London
DENTON, MJ (Michael) Lancashire
DERMOTT, P (Philip) Lancashire
DERRIEN, M (Mark) Dorset
DICICCO, M (Matthew) Cleveland
DONOHUE, M (Matthew) Manchester
DUDLEY, IA (Ian) Nottinghamshire
DUNCAN, M (Mark) Cheshire
DURIE, B (Brian) Gloucestershire
DWYER, M (Mark) West Yorkshire
EAGLAND, S (Stuart) Staffordshire
EATON, D (Derek) Gloucestershire
EDWARDS, M (Marc) Durham
EVA, M (Matt) Surrey
EVANS, K (Karl) Lancashire
FARRIES, J (John) Oxfordshire
FEARN, AE (Amy) Leicestershire
FINCH, S (Steven) Southampton
FISSENDEN, I (Ian) Kent
FITCH, C (Carl) Suffolk
FLYNN, J (John) Wiltshire
MATCH OFFICIALS
AKERS, C (Chris) South Yorkshire
AMEY, JR (Justin) Dorset
AMPHLETT, MJ (Marvyn) Worcestershire
ATKIN, R (Robert) Lincolnshire
ATKIN, RT (Ryan) London
AVENT, D (David) Northamptonshire
AYLOTT, A (Andrew) Bedfordshire
BACKHOUSE, A (Anthony) Cumbria
BARNARD, N (Nicholas) Cheshire
BARRATT, W (Wayne) Worcestershire
BARROW, SJ (Simon) Staffordshire
BARTLETT, R (Richard) Cheshire
BECK, SP (Simon) Bedfordshire
BELL, J (James) Sheffield
BENNETT, A (Andrew) Devon
BENNETT, SP (Simon) Staffordshire
BENTON, DK (David) South Yorkshire
BESWICK, G (Gary) County Durham
BETTS, L (Lee) Norfolk
BLUNDEN, D (Darren) Kent
BOURNE, D (Declan) Nottingham
BRAMALL, T (Thomas) Sheffield
BRISTOW, M (Matthew) Manchester
BROMLEY, A (Adam) Devon
BROOK, C (Carl) East Sussex
BROOKS, J (John) Leicestershire
BRYAN, DS (Dave) Lincolnshire
BULL, W (William) Hampshire
BUONASSISI, M (Mathew) Northamptonshire
BURT, S (Stuart) Northamptonshire
BUSBY, J (John) Oxfordshire
BUSHELL, DD (David) London
BUTLER, S (Stuart) Kent
BYRNE, H (Helen) Liverpool
CANN, DJ (Darren) Norfolk
DUMITRU,RAVEL, C (Cheosiaua) Worcestershire
CHILD, SA (Stephen) Kent
CLARK, J (Joseph) West Midlands
CLAYTON, A (Alan) Cheshire
495
NATIONAL LIST OF ASSISTANT REFEREES
MATCH OFFICIALS
SEASON 2015/16
FOLEY, MJ (Matt) London
FORD, D (Declan) Lincolnshire
FOX, A (Andrew) Warwickshire
FYVIE, G (Graham) Tyne & Wear
GANFIELD, RS (Ron) Somerset
GARRATT, AM (Andy) West Midlands
GARRATT, S (Sarah) West Midlands
GEORGE, M (Mike) Norfolk
GIBBONS, N (Nick) Lancashire
GIBBONS, P (Peter) Cheshire
GOOCH, P (Peter) Lancashire
GORDON, B (Barry) County Durham
GRAHAM, P (Paul) Manchester
GRATTON, D (Danny) Staffordshire
GREENHALGH, N (Nick) Lancashire
GREENWOOD, AH (Alf) North Yorkshire
GRIFFITHS, M (Mark) South Yorkshire
GRUNNILL, W (Wayne) East Yorkshire
HAIR, NA (Neil) Cambridgeshire
HALLIDAY, A (Andy) North Yorkshire
HANLEY, M (Michael) Liverpool
HARRIS, P (Paul) Kent
HART, G (Glen) County Durham
HATZIDAKIS, C (Constantine) Kent
HAYCOCK, KW (Ken) West Yorkshire
HENDLEY, AR (Andy) West Midlands
HICKS, C (Craig) Surrey
HILLIER, J (Jake) Hertfordshire
HILTON, G (Gary) Lancashire
HOBBIS, N (Nick) West Midlands
HOBDAY, P (Paul) West Midlands
HODSKINSON, P (Paul) Lancashire
HOLDERNESS, BC (Barry) Essex
HOLMES, AR (Adrian) West Yorkshire
HOPTON, N (Nicholas) Derbyshire
HOWARD, P (Paul) London
HOPKINS, AJ (Adam) Devon
HOWES, M (Mark) Birmingham
HOWSON, A (Akil) Leicestershire
496
HUDSON, S (Shaun) Tyne & Wear
HULL, J (Joe) Cheshire
HULME, R (Richard) Somerset
HUNT, J (Jonathan) Liverpool
HUSBAND, C (Christopher) Worcestershire
HUSSIN, (Ian) Liverpool
HUXTABLE, B (Brett) Devon
HYDE, RA (Robert) London
ISHERWOOD, C (Chris) Lancashire
JOHNSON, J (Joseph) Liverpool
JOHNSON, P (Paul) Surrey
JOHNSON, RL (Ryan) Manchester
JONES, MT (Mark) Nottinghamshire
JONES, RJ (Robert) Merseyside
JONES, M (Matthew) Staffordshire
KANE, G (Graham) East Sussex
KAYE, E (Elliott) Essex
KELLY, P (Paul) Kent
KENDALL, R (Richard) Bedfordshire
KETTLEWELL, PT (Paul) Lancashire
KHATIB, B (Billy) County Durham
KIRK, T (Thomas) Cheshire
KIRKUP, PJ (Peter) Northamptonshire
KNAPP, SC (Simon) Bristol
LAVER, AA (Andrew) Hampshire
LAW, J (John) Worcestershire
LEACH, D (Daniel) Oxfordshire
LEDGER, S (Scott) South Yorkshire
LENNARD, HW (Harry) East Sussex
LIDDLE, G (Geoff) County Durham
LINDEN, W (Wes) Middlesex
LONG, SJ (Simon) Devon
LUCAS, S (Simeon) Lancashire
LUGG, N (Nigel) Surrey
LYMER, C (Colin) Hampshire
McDONOUGH, M (Mick) Tyne & Wear
McGRATH, M (Matt) East Yorkshire
MACKAY, R (Rob) Bedfordshire
MAGILL, JP (John) Essex
NATIONAL LIST OF ASSISTANT REFEREES
SEASON 2015/16
QUIN, A (Andrew) Devon
RADFORD, N (Neil) Worcestershire
RAMSEY, T (Thomas) Essex
RATHBONE, I (Ian) Northamptonshire
RASHID, L (Lisa) Birmingham
REES, P (Paul) Somerset
RICHARDSON, D (David) West Yorkshire
ROBATHAN, DM (Daniel) Surrey
ROBERTS, B (Bob) Lancashire
ROCK, DK (David) Hertfordshire
ROSS, SJ (Stephen) Lincolnshire
RUBERY, SP (Steve) Essex
RUSSELL, GR (Geoff) Northamptonshire
RUSSELL, M (Mark) Somerset
SALISBURY, M (Michael) Lancashire
SALIY, O (Oleksandr) Middlesex
SANNERUDE, A (Adrian) Suffolk
SCHOLES, MS (Mark) Buckinghamshire
SCREGG, AJ (Andrew) Liverpool
SERRANO, A (Anthony) Hertfordshire
SHARP, N (Neil) Cleveland
SIDDALL, I (Iain) Lancashire
SIMPSON, J (Joe) Manchester
SLAUGHTER, A (Ashley) West Sussex
SMALLWOOD, W (William) Cheshire
SMART, E (Edward) West Midlands
SMEDLEY, I (Ian) Derbyshire
SMITH, J (Josh) Lincolnshire
SMITH, M (Michael) Essex
SMITH, N (Nigel) Derbyshire
SMITH, R (Rob) Hertfordshire FA
STORRIE, D (David) West Yorkshire
STRAIN, D (Darren) Cheshire
STREET, DR (Duncan) West Yorkshire
STRETTON, GS (Guy) Leicestershire
TANKARD, A (Anthony) South Yorkshire
TAYLOR, C (Craig) Staffordshire
THOMPSON, PI (Paul) Derbyshire
TRANTER, A (Adrian) Dorset
MATCH OFFICIALS
MAINWARING, J (James) Lancashire
MARKHAM, DR (Danny) Tyne & Wear
MARSDEN, PR (Paul) Lancashire
MARTIN, RJ (Richard) Weston,super,Mare
MASSEY-ELLIS, R (Rob) West Midlands
MASSEY-ELLIS, SL (Sian) West Midlands
MATHER, S (Simon) Manchester
MATTHEWS, A (Adam) Gloucestershire
MATTOCKS, KJ (Kevin) Lancashire
MEESON, DP (Daniel) Staffordshire
MELLOR, JM (Mark) Hertfordshire
MELLOR, G (Gareth) West Yorkshire
MERCHANT, R (Rob) Staffordshire
MEREDITH, S (Steven) Nottinghamshire
METCALFE, RL (Lee) Lancashire
MILLER, A (Andrew) Durham
MOORE, A (Anthony) Cheshire
MORRIS, K (Kevin) Herefordshire
MUGE, G (Gavin) Bedfordshire
MULLARKEY, M (Mike) Devon
MULRAINE, K (Kevin) Cumbria
NEWBOLD, AM (Andy) Leicestershire
NIELD, T (Tom) West Yorkshire
NORCOTT, WG (Wade) Essex
NUNN, AJ (Adam) Wiltshire
OBRIEN, J (John) London
ODONNELL, CJ (Chris) Bedfordshire
OLDHAM, SA (Scott) Lancashire
PARRY, MJ (Matthew) Liverpool
PASHLEY, A (Alix) Derbyshire
PEART, T (Tony) North Yorkshire
PERRY, MS (Marc) West Midlands
PLANE, S (Steven) Worcestershire
PLOWRIGHT, DP (David) Nottinghamshire
POLLARD, C (Christopher) Suffolk
POLLOCK, B (Bobby) Liverpool
POTTAGE, M (Mark) Dorset
POWELL, CI (Chris) Dorset
PURKISS, S (Sam) London
497
NATIONAL LIST OF ASSISTANT REFEREES
MATCH OFFICIALS
SEASON 2015/16
TRELEAVEN, D (Dean) West Sussex
TURNER, A (Andrew) Devon
TYAS, J (Jason) West Yorkshire
VENAMORE, L (Lee) Kent
WADE, C (Christopher) Hampshire
WADE, S (Stephen) East Yorkshire
WARD, C (Christopher) Nottinghamshire
WATERS, A (Adrian) Kent
WEBB, MP (Michael) Surrey
WEST, RJ (Richard) East Yorkshire
WHITELEY, J (Jason) West Yorkshire
WHITTON, RP (Rob) Essex
WIGGLESWORTH, RJ (Richard) South Yorkshire
WILD, R (Richard) Lancashire
WILKES, MJ (Matthew) West Midlands
WILSON, J (James) Cheshire
WILSON, M (Marc) Cambridgeshire
WOOD, L (Lloyd) Essex
WOOD, T (Tim) Gloucestershire
WOOTTON, R (Ricky) West Yorkshire
WRIGHT, P (Peter) Merseyside
YATES, O (Oliver) Staffordshire
YOUNG, A (Alan) Cambridgeshire
498
MATCH OFFICIALS
499
500
MATCH OFFICIALS
MEMORANDUM
&ARTICLES OF
ASSOCIATION
MEMORANDUM OF ASSOCIATION
No. 2719699
THE COMPANIES ACT 1985
COMPANY LIMITED BY SHARES
MEMORANDUM OF ASSOCIATION
of
THE FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION PREMIER LEAGUE LIMITED
The name of the Company is THE FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION PREMIER LEAGUE LIMITED.
2.
The registered office of the Company will be situated in England.
3.
The objects for which the Company is established are:
(a) to organise and manage under the jurisdiction of The Football Association a league of
association football clubs to be known as The Football Association Premier League or
such other name as the Company may from time to time adopt (the Premier League);
(b) to make, adopt, vary and publish rules, regulations and conditions for the management
of the Premier League and matters relating thereto, and to take all such steps as shall
be deemed necessary or advisable for enforcing such rules, regulations and conditions;
(c) to promote, provide for, regulate and manage all or any details or arrangements or other
things as may be considered necessary or desirable for, or ancillary to, the comfort,
conduct, convenience or benefit of football players and of the public or of any other
persons concerned or engaged in or associated with the Premier League;
(d) to enter into television, broadcasting, sponsorship, commercial or other transactions of
any kind in connection with the Premier League;
(e) to co-operate with The Football Association and the International Football Association
Board in all matters relating to international competitions or relating to the laws of the
game of association football and generally to adhere to and comply with the applicable
rules and regulations of The Football Association;
(f) to carry out operations and to produce or deal with goods and to purchase or otherwise
acquire, construct, lease, hold or deal with property, rights or privileges;
(g) to carry out any other transactions or things as can be advantageously carried on in
connection with or ancillary to the Premier League or as may be calculated directly or
indirectly to enhance the value of or render profitable any of the property or rights of
the Company;
(h) to invest and deal with the monies of the Company not immediately required in any
manner and hold and deal with any investment so made;
(i) to pay or to provide or to make arrangements for providing gratuities, pensions, benefits,
loans and other matters and to establish, support, subsidise and subscribe to any
institution, association, club, scheme, fund or trust;
(j) to raise or borrow money and to give security over the Companys assets;
MEMORANDUM OF ASSOCIATION
1.
502
(k) to lend or advance money and to give credit and to enter (whether gratuitously or
otherwise) into guarantees or indemnities of all kinds, whether secured or unsecured,
and whether in respect of its own obligations or those of some other person
orcompany;
(l) to pay or agree to pay all or any of the promotion, formation and registration expenses
of the Company;
(m) to contribute to or support any charitable, benevolent or useful object relating to
association football, or participants therein;
(n) to do all other things to further the objects of the Company or as may be deemed
incidental or conducive to the attainment of such objects or any of them.
It is hereby declared that (except where the context expressly so requires) none of the several
paragraphs of this clause, or the objects therein specified, or the powers thereby conferred
shall be limited by, or be deemed merely subsidiary or auxiliary to, any other paragraph of this
clause, or the objects in such other paragraph specified, or the powers thereby conferred.
4. The liability of the members is limited.
5.
The share capital of the Company is 100 divided into 99 Ordinary Shares of 1 each and 1
Special Rights Preference Share of 1.
We, the several persons whose names, addresses and descriptions are subscribed, are desirous
of being formed into a Company in pursuance of this Memorandum of Association and we
respectively agree to take the number of shares in the capital of the Company set opposite
our respective names.
Number and class of
shares taken by each subscriber
Rick N. Parry
Chief Executive F.A. Premier League
14 Dormer Close
Rowton
Chester CH3 7SA
22 Ordinary Shares
R.H.G. Kelly
Chief Executive Football Association
16 Lancaster Gate
London W2 3LW
Dated the 22nd day of May 1992
1 Special Rights Preference Share
MEMORANDUM OF ASSOCIATION
Names, Addresses and
Descriptions of Subscribers
503
MEMORANDUM OF ASSOCIATION
Witness to the above signatures:
I.L. Hewitt
Solicitor
65 Fleet Street
London EC4Y 1HS
504
Graeme E.C. Sloan
Solicitor
65 Fleet Street
London EC4Y 1HS
No. 2719699
THE COMPANIES ACT 1985
PRIVATE COMPANY LIMITED BY SHARES
ARTICLES OF ASSOCIATION of
THE FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION PREMIER LEAGUE LIMITED
(As amended by Special Resolution passed on 4 June 2015)
Interpretation
1.1
T he regulations contained in Table A (as prescribed pursuant to Section 8 of the
Companies Act 1985) in force at the date of adoption of these Articles shall not apply to
the Company but the regulations contained in the following clauses (as originally
adopted or as from time to time altered by Special Resolution) shall be the Articles of
Association of the Company.
1.2 In these Articles:
the Act means the Companies Act 1985 including any statutory modification or re
enactment thereof for the time being in force;
the Articles means the Articles of Association of the Company and reference to a
number following the word Article is a reference to an article so numbered in the
Articles;
Association Football means the game of football as played in accordance with the
rules and regulations of, or adopted by, the Football Association;
the Board means the board of directors for the time being of the Company;
Chairman means the person appointed as the Chairman pursuant to Article 42 or any
acting Chairman appointed pursuant to Article 56.1;
the Company means the The Football Association Premier League Limited;
clear days in relation to the period of a notice means that period excluding the day for
which the notice is given or on which it is to take effect but including the day when the
notice is given or deemed to be given;
Director means a director of the Company;
the Football Association means The Football Association Limited;
the Football Association Rules means the rules and regulations for the time being of
the Football Association;
F.A Cup means the Football Association Challenge Cup competition;
the Football League means The Football League Limited;
Former Companies Acts has the meaning set out in section 735(1) of the Act.
General Meeting means any meeting of the Members and shall include for the
purpose of the Articles (except where expressly stated) the annual general meeting and
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ARTICLES OF ASSOCIATION
Club means an Association Football club which is for the time being a Member;
a separate class meeting of the holders of Ordinary Shares in the Company;
the League means the Association Football league managed by the Company and
consisting of Association Football clubs which are from time to time Members;
League Office means the registered office for the time being of the Company;
Member means an Association Football club the name of which is entered in the
register of Members as the holder of an Ordinary Share;
the Memorandum means the Memorandum of Association of the Company;
Ordinary Share means an ordinary share of 1 in the capital of the Company;
Representative means any director or the secretary of a Club or any person who has
been authorised to act as the representative of a Club as referred to in Article 36.1;
Resolution means a resolution of the Company which has been passed at a General
Meeting by a majority of Members as specified in Article 27 or a resolution of the
Members passed pursuant to the provisions of Article 33;
the Rules means the rules of the League as made, adopted or amended from time to
time pursuant to the provisions of Article 16;
the Seal means the common seal of the Company;
Secretary means the secretary of the Company or any other person appointed to
perform the duties of the secretary of the Company, including a joint, assistant or deputy
secretary;
Special Share means the one special rights preference share of 1 referred to in Article 3;
ARTICLES OF ASSOCIATION
Successor means any manager, receiver, administrative receiver or liquidator
appointed in any of the circumstances referred to in Article 10.1;
the Special Shareholder means the holder of the Special Share;
the United Kingdom means Great Britain and Northern Ireland;
written or in writing shall include without limitation telex telegram cable facsimile
transmission or other means of telecommunication in permanent written form.
A reference to a person includes a body corporate and an unincorporated body of persons.
Unless the context otherwise requires, words or expressions contained in the Articles bear
the same meaning as in the Act but excluding any statutory modification or re-enactment
thereof not in force when the Articles or the relevant parts thereof are adopted.
Headings
2. The headings in the Articles are for the convenience only and shall not affect the
interpretation of the Articles.
Share Capital
3. The authorised share capital of the Company at the date of adoption of the Articles is
100 divided into 99 Ordinary Shares and one special rights preference share of 1.
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4. Subject as provided in Article 12, an Ordinary Share shall only be issued, allotted or
transferred to an Association Football club entitled, pursuant to the Articles and the
Rules, to be a Member and such club shall, on issue, allotment or transfer to it of an
Ordinary Share, become a Member.
5.
No person shall be entitled to be a Member unless that person is:
5.1 a company limited by shares formed and registered in England and Wales under the
Act; or
5.2 a company limited by shares formed and registered in England and Wales under
any of the Former Companies Acts; or
5.3 any other person which the Board may determine, in its discretion, shall be entitled
to be a Member
6.
No member shall be entitled to own, or have a beneficial interest in, more than one
OrdinaryShare.
The Special Share
7.1
The Special Share may only be issued to and held by the Football Association.
7.2 Notwithstanding any provision in the Articles or the Rules to the contrary, each of the
following matters shall be deemed to be a variation of the rights attaching to the Special
Share and shall accordingly be effective only with the consent in writing of the Special
Shareholder and without such consent shall not be done or caused to be done:
7.2.1 the amendment, or removal, or the alteration of the effect of (which, for the
avoidance of doubt, shall be taken to include the ratification of any breach of) all
or any of the following:
(b) in Article 1 the definition of Special Share or the Special Shareholder;
(c) Article 4 (issue of Ordinary Shares);
(d) this Article 7 (rights attaching to the Special Share);
(e) Article 42 (number of Directors);
(f) Article 44 (appointment and re-appointment of Directors);
(g) Article 79 (adherence to the Football Association Rules); and
(h) Articles 80 and 81 (winding-up);
7.2.2 any change of the name of the Company;
7.2.3 the variation of any voting rights attaching to any shares in the Company;
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ARTICLES OF ASSOCIATION
(a) the objects of the Company set out in clause 3 of the Memorandum;
7.2.4 the making and adoption of or any amendment to, removal of or waiver of any
of the provisions of the Rules which relate to:
(a) the name of the League;
(b) the number of Members and promotion to and relegation from the League;
(c) the criteria for membership of the League;
(d) the arranging of fixtures on or prior to specified international match dates
and commitment to support the Football Association in relation to
international matches;
(e)
the obligation of each Club to enter the F.A. Cup;
(f)
the ownership of more than one club;
(g)
any rules common to the League and the Football League.
7.3 The Special Shareholder shall have all the rights of a Member in relation to receiving
notice of, and attending and speaking at General Meetings and to receiving minutes of
General Meetings. The Special Shareholder shall have no right to vote at General
Meetings.
7.4 On any distribution of capital on a winding up of the Company, the Special Shareholder
shall be entitled to repayment of the capital paid up or treated for the purposes of the
Act or the Insolvency Act 1986 as paid up on the Special Share in priority to any
repayment of capital to any Member. The Special Share shall carry no other right to
participate in the capital, and no right to participate in the profits, of the Company.
ARTICLES OF ASSOCIATION
Share Certificates
8.1 Every Club, upon being registered as the holder of an Ordinary Share, shall be entitled
without payment to one certificate for the Ordinary Share so held. Every certificate shall
be sealed with the Seal and shall specify the distinguishing number of the Ordinary Share
to which it relates and the amount paid up thereon.
8.2 If a share certificate is defaced, worn-out, lost or destroyed, it may be renewed on such
terms (if any) as to evidence and indemnity and payment of the expenses reasonably
incurred by the Company in investigating such evidence as the Board may determine but
otherwise free of charge, and (in the case of defacement or wearing-out of the share
certificate) subject to delivery up of the old certificate.
Transfer of Shares
9.1 The instrument of transfer of an Ordinary Share may be in any usual form or in any other
form which the Board may approve and shall be executed by or on behalf of the transferor
and, unless the share is fully paid, by or on behalf of the transferee.
9.2 The Board shall refuse to register the transfer of an Ordinary Share to a person who is not
entitled, pursuant to the Articles or the Rules, to be a Member.
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9.3
The Board may also refuse to register the transfer of an Ordinary Share unless:
9.3.1 the instrument of transfer relating thereto is lodged at the League Office or at such
other place as the Board may appoint and is accompanied by the certificate for the
Ordinary Share to which it relates and such other evidence as the Board may
reasonably require to show the right of the transferor to make the transfer; and
9.3.2 it is in respect of only one Ordinary Share.
10.1 If a Member
10.1.1 enters into a Company Voluntary Arrangement pursuant to Part 1 of the
Insolvency Act 1986 (the 1986 Act which expression shall include any
statutory modification or re-enactment thereof for the time being in force) or a
compromise or arrangement with its creditors under Part 26 of the Act, or it
enters into any compromise agreement with its creditors as a whole; or
10.1.2 lodges, or its shareholders or directors lodge, a Notice of Intention to Appoint an
Administrator or a Notice of Appointment of an Administrator at the Court in
accordance with paragraphs 26 and 29 of Schedule B1 to the 1986 Act or it or its
shareholders or directors make an application to the Court for an Administration
Order under paragraph 12 of Schedule B1 to the 1986 Act or where an
Administrator is appointed or an Administration Order is made in respect of it
(Administrator and Administration Order having the meanings attributed to
them respectively by paragraphs 1 and 10 of Schedule B1 to the 1986 Act); or
10.1.3 has an Administrative Receiver (as defined by section 251 of the 1986 Act) or a
Law of Property Act Receiver (appointed under section 109 of the Law of
Property Act 1925) or any Receiver appointed by the Court under the Supreme
Court Act 1981 or any court appointed Receiver or any other Receiver appointed
over any of its assets which, in the opinion of the Board, are material to the
Clubs ability to fulfill its obligations as a Member; or
10.1.4 has its shareholders pass a resolution pursuant to section 84(1) of the 1986 Act
to voluntarily wind it up: or
10.1.5 has a meeting of its creditors convened pursuant to section 95 or section 98 of
the 1986 Act; or
10.1.6 has a winding up order made against it by the Court under section 122 of the
1986 Act or a provisional liquidator is appointed over it under section 135 of the
1986 Act; or
10.1.7 ceases or forms an intention to cease wholly or substantially to carry on its
business save for the purpose of reconstruction or amalgamation otherwise in
accordance with a scheme of proposals which have previously been submitted
to and approved in writing by the Board; or
10.1.8 enters into or is placed into any insolvency regime in any jurisdiction outside
England and Wales which is analogous with the insolvency regimes detailed in
Articles 10.1.1 to Articles 10.1.6 hereof;
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ARTICLES OF ASSOCIATION
t hen the Board may at any time thereafter by notice in writing call upon the relevant Successor
to transfer the Ordinary Share held by such Member to such person as the Board shall direct at
a price of 1 and on receipt of such notice the Member shall thereupon cease to be entitled to
be a Member of the League.
10.2
If any Member shall cease to be entitled to be a member of the League pursuant to the
provisions of the Rules, then that Member, shall, on receiving notice in writing from the
Board to that effect, transfer its Ordinary Share to such person as the Board shall direct
at a price of 1.
10.3 Any Member ceasing to be entitled to be a member of the League as referred to in Article
10.1 or 10.2 shall, as from the date of receiving the notice therein referred to, have no
rights in relation to the Ordinary Share held by it save in relation to Articles 80 and 81.
10.4 If any Member or its Successor (as the case may be) shall fail to transfer such Members
Ordinary Share in accordance with and within seven days of the notice in writing by the
Board calling for the transfer of the same, the Board may authorise either Director to
execute a transfer thereof in favour of a person entitled to be a member of the League
and a transfer so executed shall be as valid and effective as if the same had been executed
by the Member or its Successor (as the case may be) and the transferee shall be entered
into the register of Members as the holder of such Ordinary Share accordingly.
10.5 On registration of the transfer of an Ordinary Share held by a Member, executed by such
Member, its Successor or either Director (as the case may be) pursuant to the provisions
of this Article 10, the Member shall cease to be a Member.
11.1 No fee shall be charged for the registration of any instrument of transfer or other
document relating to or affecting the title to any Ordinary Share.
ARTICLES OF ASSOCIATION
11.2 If the Board refuses to register a transfer of an Ordinary Share, the Board shall, within
two months after the date on which the instrument of transfer was lodged with the
Company, send to the transferee notice of the refusal.
11.3 The Company shall be entitled to retain any instrument of transfer which is registered,
but any instrument of transfer which the Board refuses to register shall be returned to
the person lodging it when notice of the refusal is given.
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Excess Shares
12.1 In the event that the maximum number of Association Football clubs entitled to be
members of the League in accordance with the Articles or the Rules is less than the
number of Ordinary Shares then in issue then, unless the excess of such Ordinary Shares
shall be purchased by the Company or otherwise redeemed in accordance with the
provisions of the Act, such excess Ordinary Shares shall be transferred to and be registered
in the name of the Secretary and, whilst so registered, such Ordinary Shares shall carry no
voting, dividend or other rights, including on any winding up of the Company.
12.2 On any change of the Secretary, any Ordinary Shares so registered in the name of the
Secretary shall forthwith be transferred into the name of the person holding such office
following such change and in the event that such shares shall not be so transferred within
fourteen days of the change of the Secretary, the Board may authorise either the Director
to execute a transfer of such shares in favour of the Secretary for the time being of the
Company and a transfer so executed shall be as valid and effective as if the same had
been executed by the holder of such shares and the transferee Secretary shall be entered
in the register as the holder of such Ordinary Shares accordingly.
Alteration of Share Capital
13. The Company may by Resolution cancel Ordinary Shares which, at the date of the
passing of the Resolution, have not been issued and allotted or agreed to be issued and
allotted to any Association Football club entitled thereto and diminish the amount of its
share capital by the amount of the shares so cancelled.
14. Subject to the provisions of the Act, the Company may by special resolution reduce its
share capital, any capital redemption reserve and any share premium account.
15. Subject to the provisions of the Act, the Company may purchase its own shares (including
any redeemable shares) and make a payment in respect of the redemption or purchase
of its own shares otherwise than out of distributable profits of the Company or the
proceeds of a fresh issue of shares.
Rules
16.1 The Company may by Resolution make and adopt and from time to time amend the
Rules for the purpose of regulating all matters affecting the organisation and management
of the League to the extent not provided for in, and so far as the same do not conflict
with, the provisions of the Articles.
16.2 Unless otherwise stated in the Articles or the Rules, the provisions of the Articles shall
prevail in the event of any conflict with any of the provisions of the Rules.
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ARTICLES OF ASSOCIATION
Purchase of Own Shares
General Meetings
17.1 A General Meeting may be convened by the Board at any time.
17.2 If there are at any time less than two Directors then a continuing Director or the Secretary
may convene a General Meeting for the purposes referred to in Article 56.1.
17.3 The Board shall convene each year at approximately quarterly intervals not less than
four General Meetings (to include an annual general meeting) to be held at such time
and at such place as the Board shall determine.
17.4 The Board (and if there are less than two Directors, a continuing Director or the Secretary)
shall on receipt by the Company of the requisition to that effect from two or more
Members forthwith proceed to convene a General Meeting (other than an annual general
meeting) for a date not later than:
17.4.1 twenty eight clear days after the receipt of such requisition if it is signed by less
than two thirds in number of the Members; or
17.4.2 fourteen clear days after the receipt of such requisition if it is signed by two
thirds or more in number of the Members; or
17.4.3 twenty one clear days after receipt of such requisition if the meeting is for any of
the purposes referred to in Articles 18.1.2, 18.1.3, or 18.1.4.
Notice of General Meetings1
ARTICLES OF ASSOCIATION
18.1 At least twenty one clear days notice in writing shall be given for:
18.1.1 any annual general meeting;
18.1.2 any meeting at which it is proposed to pass a special resolution or an elective
resolution;
18.1.3 any meeting at which it is proposed to pass a Resolution appointing a person as
a Director;
18.1.4 any meeting at which it is proposed to make, adopt or amend the Rules.
18.2 At least fourteen clear days notice in writing shall be given for any other General
Meeting.
1By elective resolution passed at a General Meeting of Shareholders held on 3rd December 1998 it was resolved that the
provisions of Section 369(4) and Section 378(3) of the Companies Act 1985 (as amended by the Companies Act 1989) are
to have effect in relation to the Company as if, for the references, in those sections, to 95%, there were substituted
references to 90%.
Accordingly any agreement of the members to the calling of a general meeting on short notice (Section 369) or to consider
a special resolution at a General Meeting on short notice, requires the agreement of a majority of 90% (rather than 95%)
in number, of the members having the right to attend and vote at a meeting.
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19. The notice of a General Meeting shall specify the time and place of the meeting, the
general nature of the business to be transacted and shall include a statement that a
Member entitled to attend and vote is entitled to appoint one or two proxies to attend
and vote instead of that Member and that a proxy need not also be a Member and, in the
case of an annual general meeting, shall specify the meeting as such.
20. Notice of any General Meeting shall be given to the Special Shareholder, all the Members,
any Successor of a Member and to each Director and the auditors.
21. The accidental omission to give notice of a meeting to, or the non-receipt of notice of a
meeting by, any member or person entitled to receive notice shall not invalidate the
proceedings at that meeting.
Proceedings at General Meetings
22. No business shall be transacted at any General Meeting unless a quorum is present. Save
as otherwise provided in these Articles, two thirds in number of the Members who are
present by a Representative or by proxy shall constitute a quorum for all purposes.
23. If such a quorum is not present within half an hour from the time appointed for the
meeting, or if during a meeting such a quorum ceases to be present, the meeting shall
stand adjourned to the same day in the next week at the same time and place or to such
time and place as the Board may determine. If at the adjourned meeting a quorum is not
present within half an hour from the time appointed for the meeting the notice of the
meeting shall be deemed to be, and the meeting shall be, cancelled.
25. Notwithstanding that he is not a Member, a Director shall be entitled to attend and
speak at any General Meeting.
26. The chairman of the meeting may, with the consent of a General Meeting at which a
quorum is present (and shall, if so directed by the meeting), adjourn the meeting from
time to time and from place to place but no business shall be transacted at an adjourned
meeting other than business which might properly have been transacted at the meeting
had the adjournment not taken place. When a meeting is adjourned for thirty days or
more notice shall be given in accordance with Article 18 specifying the time and place of
the adjourned meeting and the general nature of the business to be transacted.
Otherwise it shall not be necessary to give any such notice.
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ARTICLES OF ASSOCIATION
24. The Chairman, or, in his absence, a Director shall preside as chairman of the meeting. If
none is willing to act as chairman, or if not present within fifteen minutes after the time
appointed for holding the meeting, the Members present shall elect another Director or
one of the Representatives of a Member who is present to be the chairman of the
meeting.
27. Except where the Act specifies that a particular resolution of the Company requires a
greater majority, two-thirds of such Members who are present and who vote by their
Representative or by proxy at a General Meeting of which notice has been duly given
shall be required for the passing of all resolutions of the Company.
28. A resolution put to the vote of a General Meeting shall be decided on a show of hands
unless before, or on the declaration of the result of, the show of hands, a poll is duly
demanded. Subject to the provisions of the Act, a poll may be demanded:
28.1 by the chairman of the meeting; or
28.2 by at least two Members; and a demand by a person as Representative of or proxy
for a Member shall be the same as a demand by the Member.
29. Unless a poll is duly demanded, a declaration by the chairman of the meeting that a
resolution has been carried or carried unanimously or by a particular majority or lost, or
not carried by a particular majority, and an entry to that effect in the minutes of the
General Meeting shall be conclusive evidence of the fact without proof of the number or
proportion of the votes recorded in favour of or against the resolution.
30. The demand for a poll may, before the poll is taken, be withdrawn, but only with the
consent of the chairman of the meeting and a demand so withdrawn shall not be taken
to have invalidated the result of a show of hands declared before the demand was made.
ARTICLES OF ASSOCIATION
31. A poll shall be taken as the chairman of the meeting directs and he may fix a time and
place for declaring the result of the poll. The result of the poll shall be deemed to be the
resolution of the meeting at which the poll was demanded.
32.1 A poll demanded on the election of a chairman of the meeting or on a question of
adjournment shall be taken forthwith. A poll demanded on any other question shall be
taken either forthwith or at such time and place as the chairman of the meeting directs
not being more than thirty days after the poll is demanded. The demand for a poll shall
not prevent the continuance of a meeting for the transaction of any business other than
the question on which the poll was demanded. If a poll is demanded before the
declaration of the result of a show of hands and the demand is duly withdrawn, the
meeting shall continue as if the demand had not been made.
32.2 No notice need be given of a poll not taken immediately if the time and place at which it
is to be taken are announced at the meeting at which it is demanded. In any other case
at least seven clear days notice shall be given specifying the time and place at which the
poll is to be taken.
33.
A resolution in writing signed on behalf of all the Members by a Representative of each
of them shall be as valid and effective as if it had been passed at a General Meeting duly
convened by notice appropriate thereto and held. Any such resolution may consist of
514
several documents in the like form each signed on behalf of one or more of the Members
by a Representative of each of them.
Votes of Members
34. Every Member present at a General Meeting by a Representative or proxy shall have one
vote whether on a show of hands or on a poll.
35. No objection shall be raised to the qualification of any Representative or proxy except at
the General Meeting or adjourned meeting at which the vote objected to is tendered,
and every vote not disallowed at the meeting shall be valid. Any objection made in due
time shall be referred to the chairman of the meeting whose decision shall be final and
conclusive.
Representatives
36.1 Any director or the secretary of a Club shall be entitled to act as the Representative of
the Club at, and for all the purposes of business at, any General Meeting. A Club may
separately or additionally, by resolution of its directors, authorise any other person as it
thinks fit (not being a director or the secretary as aforesaid) to act as the Representative
of the Club at any General Meeting. The Board may require reasonable evidence of any
such authorisation.
36.2 A Representative shall be entitled to exercise all the powers of a Member for whom he
acts as Representative.
36.4 A Representative shall be entitled to attend and where appropriate vote at a General
Meeting notwithstanding that the member of which he is the Representative has
appointed a proxy to attend the same.
Proxies
37.1 An instrument appointing a proxy shall be in writing, signed on behalf of the Member by
one of its directors or its secretary or any person authorised by the Member to sign the
same and shall be in the usual common form or in such form as the Board shall approve.
37.2 Unless otherwise indicated on the instrument appointing the proxy, the proxy may vote
or abstain from voting as such proxy shall think fit.
38. The instrument appointing a proxy and (where such instrument is not signed by a
director or the secretary of a Member) a copy of the authority under which it is signed
shall be in writing and may:
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ARTICLES OF ASSOCIATION
36.3 Each Club shall, on becoming a Member, or when so requested by the Secretary, give
notice to the Secretary, setting out, in such order or priority as the Club shall determine,
details of each of its directors, secretary and any other individual who has been authorised
by the Club to act as its Representative at General Meetings and shall from time to time
send to the Secretary details of any changes in such persons.
38.1 be deposited at the League Office or with the Secretary at any time before the
time of the General Meeting which the person or persons named in the instrument
propose to attend unless otherwise specified in the notice convening such General
Meeting; or
38.2 in the case of a poll taken more than forty eight hours after it is demanded, be
deposited as aforesaid after the poll has been demanded and before the time
appointed for the taking of the poll; or
38.3 where the poll is not taken forthwith but is taken not more than forty eight hours
after it was demanded, be delivered at the General Meeting at which the poll was
demanded to the chairman of the meeting or to the Secretary.
39. The chairman of the meeting may in his discretion permit the appointment of a proxy
other than as provided herein if the circumstances arise which prevent a Member
attending a General Meeting.
Voting
40.1 A maximum of two Representatives or proxies of a Club shall be entitled to attend
General Meetings but, in the event that more than one of such Representatives or proxies
shall attend then, whilst such Representatives or proxies shall be entitled to speak, only
the Representative present who is senior in order of priority in the notice referred to in
Article 36.3 or, (if no Representative but more than one proxy is present), only the first
named proxy shall be entitled to vote at such General Meeting on behalf of the Club.
ARTICLES OF ASSOCIATION
40.2 Unless otherwise agreed by the Board or by a majority of the Members present at any
General Meeting, no other Representative, proxy or any other person representing a
Club shall be entitled to attend General Meetings and in any event such person, shall not
be entitled to speak thereat unless invited to do so by the chairman of the meeting.
41. A vote given or poll demanded by the Representative or proxy of a Member shall be valid
notwithstanding the previous termination of the authority of the person voting or
demanding a poll unless notice of such termination was received by the Company at the
League Office (or at such other place at which the instrument of proxy was duly
deposited) before the commencement of the General Meeting or adjourned meeting at
which the vote is given or the poll demanded or (in the case of a poll taken otherwise
than on the same day as the General Meeting or adjourned meeting) the time appointed
for taking the poll.
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Number and Appointment of Directors
42. The Board shall consist of not less than two and no more than three Directors one of
whom shall be the Chairman (who shall be the chief executive officer) . A Director who
is not the Chairman shall be non-executive.
43. A Director need not hold any shares of the Company to qualify him as a Director but he
shall be entitled to attend and speak at all General Meetings.
44. No person shall be appointed or re-appointed as Chairman or as a Director except
pursuant to a Resolution and unless:
44.1 such person is proposed by the Board and notice of intention to propose such
person is included in the notice of the General Meeting at which the Resolution is
to be proposed; or
44.2 where the General Meeting has already been convened, not less than fourteen
and, where the General Meeting has not already been convened, not less than
twenty two and, in any case not, more than thirty five clear days before the date
appointed for a General Meeting, a notice signed by a Member has been given to
the Company of the intention to propose that person for appointment or reappointment; and
44.3 in each case, appointment or re-appointment has been or is endorsed by the
Special Shareholder (such endorsement not to be unreasonably withheld,
refused or delayed).
46. Subject to the requirements of the Act, and without prejudice to any claim or rights in
respect of any breach of contract between the Company and such person, the Members
may by Resolution terminate the appointment of the Chairman or of any Director (as the
case may be).
Powers of the Board
47. Subject to the Memorandum and the Articles the affairs of the Company shall be
managed by the Board subject always to any directions from time to time given and any
policy resolved upon by the Members in General Meeting.
48. The Board shall:
48.1 manage the affairs of the Company including the operation of the League and the
operation and implementation of the Rules;
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ARTICLES OF ASSOCIATION
45. The terms and conditions relating to the appointment or re-appointment of, and the
remuneration and other terms and other conditions of service of, the Chairman or any
other Director, shall be determined or confirmed by Resolution.
48.2 exercise all powers of the Company but subject always to such powers of supervision
and policy direction as the Members in General Meeting may from time to time
exercise or give;
48.3 take such executive steps as it considers necessary to give effect to any policy resolved
upon by the Members in General Meeting;
48.4 make such recommendations to the Members on such matters of importance to the
Company as it considers appropriate; and
48.5 subject to the provisions of the Articles and the Act, determine any and all matters of
procedure to be followed by the Company.
49.
The Board shall not in relation to any dealings relating to television, broadcasting,
sponsorship or like transactions or other matters materially affecting the commercial
interests of the Members enter into any contract or agreement or conduct themselves in
any way as would bind the Company to any contract or agreement without the prior
authority or approval by Resolution of the Members.
50.
No alteration of the Memorandum or the Articles nor any direction of the Members shall
invalidate any prior act of the Board which would have been valid if that alteration had
not been made or that direction had not been given.
Delegation of the Boards Powers
ARTICLES OF ASSOCIATION
51.
The Board may delegate to the Chairman as the chief executive officer such of its powers
as the Board considers desirable.
52.
Any such delegate under Article 51 may be made subject to any conditions the Board or
the Members by Resolution may impose, and either collaterally with or to the exclusion
of the Boards own powers and any such delegation may be revoked or altered.
53. The Board may appoint any person or group of persons (including any person who is a
Representative of a Club) to carry out or undertake such specific duties for the Company
with such powers and authority as it shall determine and, in relation thereto, the Board
shall be entitled to remunerate or pay such fees to such person for such duties on such
basis and on such terms and conditions, as the Board shall determine.
Borrowing Powers
54. The Board may with the prior approval or authority of a Resolution exercise all the
powers of the Company to borrow or raise money and to mortgage or charge its assets
and, subject to Section 80 of the Act, to issue debenture stock and other debt securities
as security for any debt, liability or obligation of the Company or of any third party.
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Disqualification and Removal of Directors
55.
T he office of a Director shall be vacated upon the happening of any of the following
events:
55.1 if he resigns his office by notice in writing under his hand to the Secretary sent
to or left at the League Office;
55.2 if he becomes bankrupt or makes any arrangement or composition with his
creditors generally;
55.3 if he is, or may be, suffering form mental disorder and either:
55.3.1 he is admitted to hospital in pursuance of an application for admission for
treatment under the Mental Health Act 1983 or, in Scotland, an application for
admission under the Mental Health (Scotland) Act 1984, or
55.3.2 an order is made by a court having jurisdiction (whether in the United Kingdom
or elsewhere) in matters concerning mental disorder for his detention or for the
appointment of a receiver, curator bonis or other person to exercise powers with
respect to his property or affairs;
55.4 if he dies;
55.5 if he ceases for any cause to hold office as Chairman
55.6 if he ceases to be a Director by virtue of any provision of the Act or becomes
prohibited bylaw from being a director;
55.7 if he attains the age of 70.
56.2 Pending such General Meeting an acting Chairman or other Director (as the case may be)
appointed as aforesaid shall be treated as and shall have all the powers and duties of the
Chairman or Director (as the case may be) for all the purposes of the Articles.
Directors Expenses
57. A Director and any person appointed by the Board under Article 53 may be paid all
reasonable travelling, hotel, and other expenses properly incurred by them in connection
with their attendance at meetings of the Board or otherwise in connection with the
discharge of their duties.
2 By Resolution signed by all the Members on 11th March 1999 the words (not then being on officer of a
Club) were deleted from this Article.
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ARTICLES OF ASSOCIATION
56.12 In the event of a vacancy occurring on the Board, the continuing Director(s) shall
forthwith convene a General Meeting for the purpose of appointing a Director to fill that
vacancy and may appoint as a Director a person who is willing to act including as acting
Chairman. An acting Director so appointed shall hold office until the General Meeting
convened as aforesaid shall be held and if not reappointed thereat shall vacate office at
the conclusion thereof.
Directors Interests
58.
Subject to the provisions of the Act and provided that he has disclosed to the Members
the nature and extent of any material interest which he has, and obtained the consent of
the Members by Resolution, a Director notwithstanding his office:
58.1 may be a party to, or otherwise interested in, any transaction or arrangement
with the Company or in which the Company is otherwise interested;
58.2 may be a director or other officer of, or employed by, or a party to any transaction
or arrangement with, or otherwise interested in, any body corporate promoted
by the Company or in which the Company is otherwise interested; and
58.3 shall not, by reason of his office, be accountable to the Company for any benefit
which he derives from any such office or employment or from any such
transaction or arrangement and no such transaction or arrangement shall be
liable to be avoided on the ground of any such interest or benefit.
59.
For the purpose of Article 58:
59.1 a general notice given to the Members that a Director is to be regarded as having
an interest of the nature and extent specified in the notice in any transaction or
arrangement in which a specified person or class of persons is interested shall be
deemed to be a disclosure that the Director has an interest in any such
transaction of the nature and extent so specified; and
59.2 an interest of which a Director has no knowledge and of which it is unreasonable
to expect him to have knowledge shall not be treated as an interest of his.
ARTICLES OF ASSOCIATION
Proceedings of the Board
60.
Subject to the provisions of the Articles and the Rules, the Board may regulate its
proceedings as it thinks fit. A Director may, and the Secretary at the request of a Director
shall, call a meeting of the Board. Any question arising at a meeting of the Board on
which the Directors are not unanimous shall be referred to the Members at the next
General Meeting.
61. The quorum for the transaction of the business of the Board shall be two Directors, one
of which shall be the Chairman.
62. If the number of Directors is less than two, the continuing Director may act only for the
purpose of calling a General Meeting or for the purposes referred to in Article 56.1.
63. The Chairman shall be the chairman of all meetings of the Board or in his absence one of
the Directors present.
64.
All acts done by a meeting of the Board, or by a person acting as a Director (as
provided by the Articles) shall, notwithstanding that it be afterwards discovered that
520
there was a defect in the appointment of the Director or such other person or that
any of them was disqualified from holding office, or if a Director, had vacated office,
or was not entitled to vote, be as valid as if every such person had been duly appointed
and was qualified and, if a Director, had continued to be a Director and had been
entitled to vote.
65. A resolution in writing signed by the Directors shall be as valid and effective as if it had
been passed at a meeting of the Board and may consist of several documents in the like
form each signed by one of the Directors.
66. Without prejudice to Article 65, a meeting of the Board may consist of a conference
between the Directors who are not in one place, but where each is able (directly or by
telephonic communication) to speak to the other, and to be heard by the other
simultaneously. A Director taking part in such a conference shall be deemed to be present
in person at the meeting and shall be entitled to vote or be counted in a quorum
accordingly. In relation to any meeting of the Board reference to the word meeting in
the Articles shall be construed accordingly.
67. Unless authorised by a Resolution to do so, a Director shall not vote at any meeting of
the Board or on any resolution concerning a matter in which he has, directly or indirectly,
an interest or duty which is material and which conflicts or may conflict with the
interests of the Company but shall nevertheless be counted in the quorum of Directors
present at that meeting.
Secretary
Minutes
69. The Board shall cause minutes to be made in books kept for the purpose of all proceedings
at General Meetings, of all Resolutions passed by the Members and of all meetings of the
Board, including the names of the Directors present at each of such Board meetings. The
Board shall cause all such minutes to be circulated to Members within fourteen days of
the date of any such meeting.
Execution of Documents
70.
The Seal shall only be used pursuant to the authority of the Board. The Board may
determine who shall sign any instrument to which the Seal is affixed and unless
otherwise so determined it shall be signed by the two Directors or one Director and
the Secretary. Any document signed by two Directors or one Director and the
521
ARTICLES OF ASSOCIATION
68. Subject to the provisions of the Act, the Secretary shall be appointed by the Board
subject to ratification by the Members in General Meeting for such term, at such
remuneration and upon such terms and conditions as the Board thinks fit and any
Secretary so appointed may be removed by the Board or by Resolution of the Members.
Secretary and expressed (in whatever form of words) to be executed by the Company
has the same effect as if executed under the Seal.
Dividends
71.1 No dividend shall be declared or paid in respect of any share except pursuant to a
Resolution in General Meeting.
71.2 For the avoidance of doubt, Article 71.1 shall not affect the provisions relating to
payments to Members in respect of broadcasting or sponsorship or other income
received by the Company which shall be as laid down from time to time in the Rules and
which shall be implemented by the Board in accordance with the Rules.
Accounts
72. No member or other person has any right to inspect any accounting record or book or
document of the Company unless:
72.1 he is entitled by law;
72.2 he is authorised to do so by the Board; or 72.3 he is authorised to do so by a
Resolution.
Notices
73.1 A notice calling a meeting of the Board need not be in writing.
ARTICLES OF ASSOCIATION
73.2
Any other notice to be given to or by any person pursuant to the Articles shall be in
writing.
74. Any notice or other document may be served or delivered by the Company on or to any
Member or any Director either personally, or by sending it by post addressed to the
Member or Director at his registered address or by facsimile transmission or electronic
mail or other instantaneous means of transmission to the number or other transmission
address or identification provided by the Member or the Director for this purpose, or by
leaving it at its registered address addressed to the Member or the Director, or by any
other means authorised in writing by the Member or Director concerned.
75. Any notice or other document, which is sent by post, shall be deemed to have been
served or delivered twenty four hours after posting and, in proving such service or
delivery, it shall be sufficient to prove that the notice or document was properly
addressed, stamped and put in the post. Any notice or other document left at a registered
address otherwise than by post, or sent by facsimile transmission or electronic mail or
other instantaneous means of transmission, shall be deemed to have been served or
delivered when it was left or sent.
76
Without prejudice to the provisions of Article 75 relating to service or delivery of any
notice or document any notice or document not posted or delivered personally shall also
522
be confirmed by sending or delivering a copy thereof by post or personally as provided in
Article 74 but so that, in any such case, the accidental omission to so post or serve the
same or non receipt of the same shall not invalidate the due service or delivery of the
notice or other document in question.
77. A Member present, either by Representative or by proxy, at any General Meeting shall be
deemed to have received notice of the meeting and, where requisite, of the purposes for
which it was called.
78. A notice may be given by the Company to a Successor of a Member in consequence of
the insolvency, administration or receivership of a Member, by sending or delivering it, in
any manner authorised by the Articles for the giving of notice to a Member, addressed to
the Member by name or to the Successor at the address, if any, within the United
Kingdom supplied for that purpose by the Successor. Until such an address has been
supplied, a notice may be given in any manner in which it might have been given if the
insolvency, administration or receivership had not occurred.
Rules of The Football Association
79.
The Company shall adhere to and comply with the Football Association Rules.
Winding Up
80. On the winding-up of the Company the surplus assets shall be applied first, in repaying
to the Members the amount paid on their shares respectively and, if such assets shall be
insufficient to repay the said amount in full, they shall be applied rateably.
Indemnity
82. Subject to the provisions of the Act, but without prejudice to any indemnity to which a
Director may otherwise be entitled, every Director or other officer or auditor of the
Company shall be indemnified out of the assets of the Company against any liability
incurred by him in defending any proceedings, whether civil or criminal, in which
judgment is given in his favour or in which he is acquitted or in connection with any
application in which relief is granted to him by the court from liability for negligence,
default, breach of duty or breach of trust in relation to the affairs of the Company.
523
ARTICLES OF ASSOCIATION
81. If the surplus assets shall be more than sufficient to pay to the Members the whole
amount paid upon their shares, the balance shall be paid over to The Football Association
Benevolent Fund or to such other charitable or benevolent object connected with
Association Football as shall be determined by Resolution at or before the time of
winding-up and approved by The Football Association.
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ARTICLES OF ASSOCIATION
MISCELLANEOUS
MISCELLANEOUS
POINTS BASED SYSTEM
GOVERNING BODY ENDORSEMENT REQUIREMENTS FOR PLAYERS
Introduction
The purpose of this document is to explain how football clubs in England seek to obtain
Governing Body Endorsements (where necessary from The FA for individual players under Tiers
2 (Sportsperson) and 5 (Temporary Worker Creative and Sporting) of the Home Office Points
Based System (PBS) for the 2015/16 season.
Unless otherwise defined, capitalised terms are given the meanings set out in the Glossary on
pages 2 to 5.
Consultation
The criteria set out in this document have been agreed by the Home Office following consultation
between the Stakeholders.
Duration
The criteria set out in this document will apply for the 2015/2016 season and will be effective
from 1st May 2015 through to 30th April 2016. The criteria will be reviewed in early 2016 in
order that revised criteria may be issued by the 1st May 2016 to operate for season 2016/17.
GLOSSARY
MISCELLANEOUS
Certificate of Sponsorship means a certificate assigned to a non-EU/EEA player by a club
following the granting of a GBE for that player by The FA. Such a certificate will quote a unique
reference number that links to information held by the Home Office about the individuals job
and personal details;
Competitive International Match means any match played in the following tournaments:
FIFA World Cup Finals;
FIFA World Cup Qualifying Groups;
FIFA Confederations Cup; and
Continental Cup Qualifiers and Finals, including but not limited to:
-- UEFA European Championships and Qualifiers;
-- CAF African Cup of Nations and Qualifiers;
-- AFC Asia Nations Cup and Qualifiers;
-- CONCACAF Gold Cup;
-- CONCACAF Copa Caribe;
-- UNCAF Nations Cup;
-- CONMEBOL Copa America; and
-- OFC Nations Cup;
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POINTS BASED SYSTEM
Continental Competition means any of the following tournaments:
the UEFA Champions League;
the UEFA Europa League; and
the Copa Libertadores de Amrica
FIFA means the Fdration Internationale de Football Association;
FIFA Aggregated World Rankings means the aggregated rankings list for senior mens
international teams over the Reference Period that are published by The FA on a monthly basis
following publication of the FIFA World Rankings. This list is available on www.thefa.com;
FIFA World Rankings means the rankings for senior international mens teams published on the
FIFA website www.fifa.com (these rankings can currently be found at http://www.fifa.com/fifaworld- ranking/ranking-table/men/);
Governing Body Endorsement or GBE means an endorsement issued by The FA to a club for a
non- EU/EEA elite player who is internationally established at the highest level, whose
employment will make a significant contribution to the development of football at the highest
level in the UK and who intends to base himself in the UK;
Home Associations means The Scottish Football Association, the Football Association of
Wales and The Irish Football Association;
Home Office means the department of the UK government responsible for immigration,
counter- terrorism, police, drugs policy, and related science and research;
National Association means a football association that is a member of and recognised by FIFA;
Qualifying Wages means the basic wages paid to the top 30 earners in each Premier League club
at the closure of each transfer window prior to the date of the application. The value of Qualifying
Wages will be provided by The FA directly to The Premier League and The Football League;
Reference Period means the twenty four (24) month period immediately preceding the date of
the application for a Governing Body Endorsement unless the player is twenty one (21) or under
527
MISCELLANEOUS
Qualifying Transfers means all transfers to Premier League clubs in the previous two (2)
transfer windows in respect of players submitted on Premier League squad lists. The Qualifying
Transfers value will be provided by The FA directly to The Premier League and The Football
League prior to each transfer window;
POINTS BASED SYSTEM
at the time of the application for a Governing Body Endorsement when the reference period is
reduced to the immediately preceding twelve (12) month period;
Relevant Interested Parties means an appropriate representative of the either The Premier
League or The Football League (depending on the league in which the player plays) and the
Professional Footballers Association;
Required Percentage means:
for National Associations ranked between 1 and 10 of the FIFA Aggregated World
Rankings, 30% and above;
for National Associations ranked between 11 and 20 of the FIFA Aggregated World
Rankings, 45% and above;
for National Associations ranked between 21 and 30 of the FIFA Aggregated World
Rankings, 60% and above; and for National Associations ranked between 31 and 50 of
the FIFA Aggregated World Rankings, 75% and above;
MISCELLANEOUS
Secondary League means:
the 2 European leagues which are not Top Leagues but provide the next most players to
the top twenty (20) squads in the FIFA Aggregated World Rankings at the relevant point
in time; and
the Central and South American league which is not a Top League but which provides the
third most players to the top twenty (20) squads in the FIFA Aggregated World Rankings
at the relevant point in time.
A list setting out the Secondary Leagues will be published on The FA website www.thefa.
com prior to each transfer window;
Secondary Percentage means:
for National Associations ranked between 1 and 10 of the FIFA
Rankings, 25% and above;
for National Associations ranked between 11 and 15 of the FIFA
Rankings, 30% and above;
for National Associations ranked between 16 and 20 of the FIFA
Rankings, 40% and above;
for National Associations ranked between 21 and 25 of the FIFA
Rankings, 45% and above;
528
Aggregated World
Aggregated World
Aggregated World
Aggregated World
POINTS BASED SYSTEM
for National Associations ranked between 26 and 30 of the FIFA Aggregated World
Rankings, 55% and above
for National Associations ranked between 31 and 50 of the FIFA Aggregated World
Rankings, 60% and above; and
for National Associations ranked between 51 and 60 of the FIFA Aggregated World
Rankings, 75% and above;
Sponsor means a Premier League or Football League club which has satisfied the Home Office
criteria to assign Certificates of Sponsorship;
Stakeholders means The FA, The Premier League, The Football League, The Professional
Footballers Association, and the Home Associations;
The FA means The Football Association Limited a company incorporated in England and Wales
with registered number 00077797 and whose registered office is at Wembley Stadium,
Wembley, London HA9 0WS, designated for these purposes as the recognised governing body
which shall be represented by the head of Professional Football or their nominee;
The Football League means The Football League Limited a company incorporated in England
and Wales with registered number 00080612 and whose registered office is at 5B Edward VII
Quay, Navigation Way, Ashton on Ribble, Preston, PR2 2YF;
The Premier League means The Football Association Premier League Limited a company
incorporated in England and Wales with registered company number 02719699 and whose
registered office is at 30 Gloucester Place, London W1U 8PL;
The Professional Footballers Association means the PFA a company incorporated in England
and Wales with registered company number 01088411 and whose registered office is at 20
Oxford Court, Manchester M2 3WQ;
529
MISCELLANEOUS
Top League means:
the six (6) European leagues which provide the most players to the top 20 squads in the
FIFA Aggregated World Rankings at the relevant point in time; and
the two (2) Central and South American leagues which provide the most players to the top
twenty (20) squads in the FIFA Aggregated World Rankings at the relevant point in time.
A list setting out the Top Leagues will be published on The FA website www.thefa.com
prior to each transfer window;
POINTS BASED SYSTEM
Transfer Fee means the fixed, guaranteed element of a transfer fee and is taken from the
transfer fee submitted by the club to The FA. For the avoidance of doubt, free transfers, players
for whom the transfer fee consists of only training compensation and swap or multi-player deals
are to be disregarded when calculating the transfer fee;
Unavailable for Selection means the player was not available to play due to injury or suspension
and written evidence supporting this, setting out the games missed and the reason(s), has been
provided by the players National Association or club doctor to The FA. For the avoidance of
doubt, a player may not be classed as injured (and therefore Unavailable for Selection) if he was
listed as a substitute in a match and was not used. Such matches may be counted as nonappearances when calculating the Required Percentage; and
Wages means the fixed, guaranteed element of the wages payable to the player and the figure
is taken from the contract submitted by the applicant club to The FA.
1. GENERAL CONSIDERATIONS
1.1. Eligibility to become a Sponsor
In order to apply for a Governing Body Endorsement from The FA, an applicant club must hold
a Sponsors licence under Tier 2 and/or Tier 5 of the PBS and thereby be eligible to assign
Certificates of Sponsorship.
MISCELLANEOUS
To be eligible to become a Sponsor and assign Certificates of Sponsorship a club must be a
member of The Premier League or The Football League. A Sponsors licence issued under Tier 2
or Tier 5 is valid for a period of 4 years, after which time it may be renewed. Clubs should note
that a Sponsors licence may be revoked at any time if the Sponsor is seen to be failing in its
compliance with its duties. Where a Sponsors license is revoked, a players leave may be
curtailed. This means that a player must make a change of employment application if they wish
to remain in the UK.
1.2. Certificates of Sponsorship
A Certificate of Sponsorship will be assigned to a player by the club once The FA has
confirmed that the application on behalf of the player has satisfied the requirements of a
GBE. Any Certificate of Sponsorship assigned to a player must be submitted to The FA by the
applicant club.
1.3. Length of Season
For the purposes of the PBS, the playing season for this sport is from August to May. This may vary
slightly from season to season depending on the arrangement of the first and last matches.
530
POINTS BASED SYSTEM
1.4. International transfer windows
A club can apply for a Governing Body Endorsement at any time during the season and any
application will be considered against the criteria set out below. Clubs should take into
consideration the fact that a Governing Body Endorsement for a player, once issued, must be
used within two months, unless that club has the express approval of The FA.
2. OBTAINING A GOVERNING BODY ENDORSEMENT UNDER THE PBS
2.1. Criteria under which a Governing Body Endorsement will automatically be granted
The FA will automatically grant a player a GBE under either Tier 2 or Tier 5 if the applicant club
is able to show* that that player has participated in the Required Percentage** of senior
Competitive International Matches*** played by that players National Association during the
Reference Period.
Notes:
*
The applicant club must provide written confirmation setting out all matches (including
Competitive International Matches, friendlies and any other international matches that
the player was involved in) in which the player:
took part;
was Unavailable for Selection; and
did not take part but was not Unavailable for Selection.
An applicant club should obtain such confirmation from the players National
Association. If the relevant National Association is not able to confirm this, this fact
should be confirmed by the applicant club to The FA. At which stage, The FA will seek
to independently verify this information through its own sources. The responsibility
lies with the applicant club to provide this information where it is able to do so. A
decision will not be made until this process has been completed and any relevant
supporting evidence is submitted.
**
*** If
less than 30% of a National Associations matches during the Reference Period are
Competitive International Matches, friendly matches will be included in the calculation.
2.2. Discretionary criteria under which a Governing Body Endorsement will be granted
If a player does not meet the automatic criteria set out above, an applicant club can request that
an Exceptions Panel consider the players experience and value in order to determine whether a
Governing Body Endorsement should nevertheless be granted.
531
MISCELLANEOUS
In calculating the Required Percentage, any Competitive International Matches for which
the player was Unavailable for Selection are to be excluded.
POINTS BASED SYSTEM
MISCELLANEOUS
The applicant club must make the request for an Exceptions Panel to the Registrations Team at
The FA and The FA will then appoint an Exceptions Panel in accordance with the below:
The Exceptions Panel will be made up of three (3) members who will be appointed by
The FA.
The three (3) member Exceptions Panel will be constituted as follows:
-- an independent, legally qualified Chair; and
-- two (2) additional independent panel members having relevant experience at the top
level of the game.
No individual who would objectively be considered to have a current association with
the applicant club will be appointed to the Exceptions Panel.
Where there may be an actual or perceived conflict of interest, the panel member must
declare this to the Chairman at the earliest opportunity and, in any event, in advance of
the determination of the case. The Chairman will then decide whether that Exceptions
Panel member is eligible to participate and vote. If the Chairman decides in his absolute
discretion that the panel member cannot participate in the Exceptions Panel, the
Chairman will notify The FA of this fact and The FA will then appoint a replacement panel
member.
The FA will provide appropriate secretariat support.
The Exceptions Panel can request any further information from the Secretariat or the
applicant club that it deems necessary in its absolute discretion in order to make its
decision. Where it is able to do so, the applicant club or the Secretariat will supply this
information to the Exceptions Panel within a reasonable timescale.
The Exceptions Panel will consider the case following the procedures and guidance set
out in the Appendix to this document.
Written submissions may be made by interested parties in advance of the Exceptions
Panel determination.
The Exceptions Panel will make its decision based on the papers submitted to it and will
only hear oral evidence for cases falling within the secondary review criteria (as set out
in the Appendix) and only then in its absolute discretion.
532
POINTS BASED SYSTEM
The Exceptions Panel will make its decision by a simple majority with the Chairman
having a casting vote. All Exceptions Panel members must vote.
Written reasons for the decision will be supplied by the Exceptions Panel to the applicant
club and made available on a confidential basis to all Stakeholders save that the
Stakeholders may disclose previous examples on an anoymised basis to assist applicants.
If a club has made an application that was unsuccessful following a decision of the
Exceptions Panel, a further Exceptions Panel cannot be requested for the same player
within four months of the original Exceptions Panel date.
2.3. Other requirements of the PBS
Please note, in order to secure leave to remain under Tiers 2 and 5 of the PBS, in addition to
securing a GBE and being assigned with a Certificate of Sponsorship, an individual will also have
to meet other criteria set by the Home Office. For example, applications under Tier 2 will have
to be supported by evidence that the player has met the English language requirement set by
the Home Office.
MISCELLANEOUS
533
POINTS BASED SYSTEM
3.
CONSIDERATIONS ONCE A GOVERNING BODY ENDORSEMENT HAS
BEEN GRANTED
MISCELLANEOUS
3.1. Length of issue
Governing Body Endorsements can only be issued for the following periods:
Tier 2 (Sportsperson)
Tier 5 (Temporary Worker Creative and Sporting)
Initial
Application
The shorter of:
three (3) years; OR
the length of the
players contract.
The shorter of:
twelve (12) months; OR
the length of the
players contract
Extension
If the initial application was granted
for less than twelve (12) months, an
in country extension can be granted
to top up the period to twelve (12)
months in total. For example, a
player granted a six (6) month
approval can apply for an extension
in country of up to another six (6)
months. If a club wishes to employ
a player for a period of longer than
twelve (12) months, the player has
to return overseas to make a new
application and obtain entry
clearance for a further twelve (12)
month period under Tier 5.
The shorter of:
three (3) years; OR
the length of the
players contract.
3.2. Extension Applications
If a club wishes to retain the services of a player beyond the period of his GBE, the club must
submit a new application before the players leave to remain expires. If the player satisfies the
automatic criteria for endorsement (as set out at 2.1 above), a GBE will be granted. If the
automatic criteria (at 2.1) are not satisfied, The FA will at that stage consult with Relevant
Interested Parties by email and in doing so will provide any details put forward by the club in
favour of that individual. If a majority of The FA and the Relevant Interested Parties recommend
534
POINTS BASED SYSTEM
that a GBE should be granted, a GBE will be issued. If a majority recommendation for approval
is not given, a GBE will not be granted.
3.3. Switching from Tier 5 to Tier 2 of the PBS
A player can enter under Tier 5 (if he is unable to meet the English language requirement set by
the Home Office) and then apply in country (provided this is within the first 12 months) to
switch to Tier 2 once he has passed the English language test. To do this, the club will need to
submit a new application for a GBE so that a new Certificate of Sponsorship under Tier 2 can be
assigned by the club. The new application will need to be supported by a notification of pass or
pass certificate at the agreed level from an accredited English Language Test Centre.
Where a player wishes to switch from Tier 5 to Tier 2 and satisfies the automatic criteria for
endorsement (as set out at 2.1 above) at the time at which the application to switch is made, a
GBE will be granted. Where the player does not meet the automatic criteria (at 2.1), the
application will be dealt with by email consultation between The FA and the Relevant Interested
Parties who will consider any information put forward by the club in the players favour. If a
majority of The FA and the Relevant Interested Parties recommend that a GBE should be
granted, a GBE will be issued. If a majority recommendation for approval is not given, a GBE will
not be granted.
3.4. Change of club
A club wishing to sign a player who has been granted a Governing Body Endorsement through
another club must submit a new application for a GBE to The FA. If the player meets the
automatic criteria (as set out at 2.1 above), a GBE will be granted. Where the player does not
meet the automatic criteria (at 2.1), the application will be dealt with by email consultation
between The FA and the Relevant Interested Parties who will consider any information put
forward by the club in the players favour. If a majority of The FA and the Relevant Interested
Parties recommend that a GBE should be granted, a GBE will be issued. If a majority
recommendation for approval is not given, a GBE will not be granted.
MISCELLANEOUS
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POINTS BASED SYSTEM
3.5. Temporary transfer of players registration (loans)
For the purpose of a Governing Body Endorsement, loans are defined as temporary transfers
which do not extend beyond the end of the season in which the registration is temporarily
transferred. Loans are only permissible within the players current period of approval and should
not be used to avoid making extension or change of employment applications.
pp Temporary transfer to another club
If a player on a Certificate of Sponsorship is moving to another club either in the UK or abroad
on a loan basis, the players parent club must notify the Home Office of the temporary transfer
and change of location via the Sponsor Management System for players with approval under the
PBS.
For the duration of the loan period, the loaning club retains overall responsibility for the player
as his employer and Sponsor and the player is granted permission to move temporarily under
the provisions of his current leave, provided that the Certificate of Sponsorship assigned by the
loaning club is valid for the duration of the loan period. This means that where the loan is to
another club within England, neither the parent club nor the loanee club has to submit a new
application for a GBE to The FA. Where the loan is to a club within another Home Association,
the player will have to satisfy that Home Associations governing body endorsement process.
MISCELLANEOUS
When the player returns to his parent club after the loan period, the player does not need to be
assessed again against the entry criteria and may simply resume his employment with his original
club (provided that his Governing Body Endorsement remains valid beyond the date of his return),
on the basis that the player has an existing Certificate of Sponsorship and has already met the
entry requirements at the beginning of his employment with that club.
pp Making a temporary transfer permanent
Where the temporary transfer is to another club within England, if the loan is later made
permanent, the new club will, at that time, have to make a fresh application for a GBE on behalf
of the player. Clubs should note that the new application for a GBE and Certificate of Sponsorship
must be fully completed before the player can play as a permanent employee of the new club.
Temporary transfer from a club outside England to a club within England
Any player joining an English club on loan from a club outside of England (including the Home
Associations) must meet the requirements for either automatic or non- automatic endorsement
(as set out 2.1 and 2.2 above) and therefore an application must be submitted to The FA.
3.6. Contract changes or re-negotiation during the period of approval
Where a club wishes to make significant changes to the terms and conditions of the players
536
POINTS BASED SYSTEM
contract, for instance to improve his salary or length of contract part-way through his period of
endorsement, the club must notify the Home Office of this via the Sponsor Management
System for players with approval under the PBS.
If a new application is required and the player satisfies the automatic criteria for endorsement
(as set out at 2.1 above), a GBE will be granted. Where the player does not meet the automatic
criteria (at 2.1), the application will be dealt with by email consultation between The FA and the
Relevant Interested Parties who will consider any information put forward by the club in the
players favour. If a majority of The FA and the Relevant Interested Parties recommend that a
GBE should be granted, a GBE will be issued. If a majority recommendation for approval is not
given, a GBE will not be granted.
3.7. Ceasing the employment of a player
If a club ceases to employ a player granted a Governing Body Endorsement prematurely,
the club must inform the Home Office.
3.8. Trial arrangements
Governing Body Endorsements will not be issued to clubs for the purpose of having players to
trial with them. Clubs may wish to approach the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) contact
centre on 0300 123 2241 for further information should they wish to consider taking a nonEuropean Economic Area (EEA) player on trial.
4. FEES
An administration fee of 500 plus VAT will be charged for each application for a GBE. The cost
of referring an application to an Exceptions Panel will be 5,000 plus VAT to cover the fees and
travel of the Exceptions Panel. Each club will meet its own costs.
Clubs are advised to allow sufficient time for entry clearance or leave to remain to be granted.
The time taken may vary depending upon where the player is making his application from. A
537
MISCELLANEOUS
5. STATUS OF GUIDANCE
This guidance should be used in conjunction with the relevant advice issued by the Home Office.
The FA is not registered to give advice on immigration routes or processes or to advise on an
individuals immigration status. Information on aspects of immigration policy and law can be
found on the Home Office website at www.gov.uk/browse/visas-immigration or you may wish
to seek advice from an Office of the Immigration Services Commissioner (OISC) registered
advisor or someone who is otherwise exempt from such a registration requirement, for example,
a qualified solicitor.
POINTS BASED SYSTEM
guide to visa processing times is available on the Home Office website at: www.gov.uk/visaprocessing-times. Please note that an individuals personal and immigration history may be
taken into account when their application is being considered.
6. FURTHER INFORMATION
This guidance is available on The FA website at the following link:
http://www.thefa.com/football-rules-governance/more/player-registrations.
7. CONTACTS
For any queries regarding the Governing Body Endorsement criteria or to discuss the application
process for football, please contact:
Laura Taylor
Registrations Officer (PBS)
The Football Association
Wembley Stadium
PO Box 1966
London
SW1P 9EQ
Tel: 0844 980 8200 # 4629
Mob: 07984 648301 (for urgent PBS matters only) [email protected]
Please note that if your query extends beyond football and into immigration, you will be directed
to the Home Office.
MISCELLANEOUS
8. HOME OFFICE HELP
If you are an employer or Sponsor and have a general query about the Sponsor application
process or for specific enquiries regarding individual applications or about the migrant
application process, please contact UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) on 0300 123 2241.
For any technical problems with the Sponsor Management System (SMS), please call the SMS
helpline on 0114 207 2900.
538
POINTS BASED SYSTEM
APPENDIX
EXCEPTIONS PANEL PROCEDURES
1. INTRODUCTION
The Exceptions Panel will review the players experience and value in accordance with the below
review criteria. Points will only be awarded in the circumstances identified. For the avoidance of
doubt, the Exceptions Panel is under no obligation to issue a Governing Body Endorsement even
when the relevant points threshold is crossed. The Exceptions Panel may take into account other
circumstances or facts that, even though the player has achieved four (4) points or more,
suggest a GBE should not be granted. In such cases the Exceptions Panel shall set out its reasons
to the applicant and the Stakeholders. The final decision regarding a Governing Body
Endorsement rests with the Exceptions Panel.
2. PRIMARY REVIEW CRITERIA
At the first stage of the Exceptions Panels review, the Exceptions Panel will consider objective
criteria to assess the experience and financial value of a player that does not meet the automatic
criteria. The Exceptions Panel will grant points in accordance with the below:
Criteria
Points
The value of the Transfer Fee being paid for the player is above the 75th percentile 3 points
of Qualifying Transfers
The value of the Transfer Fee being paid for the player is between the 50th and 2 points
75th percentile (inclusive) of Qualifying Transfers
The Wages being paid to the player by the applicant club are above the 75th 3 points
percentile of Qualifying Wages
The Wages being paid to the player by the applicant club are between the 50th 2 points
and 75th percentile (inclusive) of Qualifying Wages
MISCELLANEOUS
The players current club is in a Top League and the player has played in 30% or 1 point
more of the available domestic league minutes
The players current club has played in the group stages or onwards of a 1 point
Continental Competition within the last 12 months and the player has played in
30% or more of the available domestic league minutes
Outcome
If a player scores four (4) points or more, the Exceptions Panel may recommend that a GBE is
granted but is not obliged to do so.
539
POINTS BASED SYSTEM
3. SECONDARY REVIEW CRITERIA (PLAYERS SCORING LESS THAN 4 POINTS AT THE
PRIMARY REVIEW STAGE)
If a player does not fulfill the primary review criteria, the Exceptions Panel will then conduct a
mixed objective and subjective review in accordance with the below.
In the majority of cases the Exceptions Panel will consider the secondary review criteria on the
basis of the papers presented to it. Given the partly subjective nature of the secondary review,
an applicant club will be permitted to request that the Exceptions Panel hear oral submissions
but the Exceptions Panel is under no obligation to do so.
OBJECTIVE CRITERIA
Prior to considering any relevant subjective factors, the Exceptions Panel will first consider the
below objective criteria:
Criteria
Points
The value of the Transfer Fee being paid for the player is within 20% of the 1 point
75th and 50th percentile of Qualifying Transfers
The Wages being paid to the player by the applicant club are within 20% of 1 point
the 75th and 50th percentile of Qualifying Wages
The players current league club is in a Secondary League and the player has 1 point
played in at least 30% of the available domestic league minutes
The players current club has played in the final qualification rounds of a 1 point
Continental Competition within the last 12 months and the player has
played in at least 30% of the available domestic league minutes
MISCELLANEOUS
The applicant club is able to show* that the player has participated in the 1 point
Secondary Percentage** of senior Competitive International Matches***
played by that players National Association during the Reference Period
OR The players National Association was a semi-finalist in the Asian Cup or
African Cup of Nations in the immediately preceding 12 months of the date
of the application for a GBE. If the National Association is ranked outside the
top 60 in the FIFA Aggregated World Rankings at the time of the application,
the club must be able to show* that the player participated in 75% or
more** of the Competitive International Matches*** played by the National
Association during the Reference Period
540
POINTS BASED SYSTEM
Notes:
* The applicant club must provide written confirmation setting out all matches (including
Competitive International Matches, friendlies and any other international matches that
the player was involved in) in which the player:
took part;
was Unavailable for Selection; and
did not take part but was not Unavailable for Selection.
An applicant club should obtain such confirmation from the players National Association. If the
relevant National Association is not able to confirm this, this fact should be confirmed by the
applicant club to The FA. At which stage, The FA will seek to independently verify this information
through its own sources. The responsibility lies with the applicant club to provide this information
where it is able to do so. A decision will not be made until this process has been completed and
any relevant supporting evidence is submitted.
** In calculating the Secondary Percentage (or other relevant percentage), any Competitive
International Matches for which the player was Unavailable for Selection are to be excluded.
*** If less than 30% of a National Associations matches during the Reference Period are
Competitive International Matches, friendly matches will be included in the calculation.
SUBJECTIVE CRITERIA
The Exceptions Panel may then take into account any subjective criteria that it deems appropriate
in its absolute discretion when deciding whether to award a Governing Body Endorsement at
the secondary review stage.
Subjective criteria that the Exceptions Panel may take into account include but are not limited to:
541
MISCELLANEOUS
Players for whom no transfer fee is payable under the primary review criteria may be
ascribed a virtual transfer value under the secondary review criteria on such basis that
the Exceptions Panel considers appropriate and, if so, the appropriate number of points
will then be awarded.
In the event that the player satisfies some of the automatic criteria for a Governing Body
Endorsement (as set out under 2.1 (Criteria under which a Governing Body Endorsement
will automatically be granted)) or the primary review criteria, the degree to which the
player exceeds these criteria will be considered.
The reasons why the automatic criteria (as set out under paragraph 2.1 (Criteria under
which a Governing Body Endorsement will automatically be granted) above), primary
review criteria or objective secondary review criteria were not met will be considered.
POINTS BASED SYSTEM
Outcome
If a player scores a cumulative total of 5 points or more taking into account his score on both the
primary review criteria and the secondary review criteria, the Exceptions Panel may recommend
that a GBE is granted but is not obliged to do so. The Exceptions Panel may also take into
account the subjective criteria and other circumstances or facts that, even though the player has
achieved five (5) points or more, lead it to conclude a GBE should not be granted.
If player scores a cumulative total of less than 5 points taking into account the primary review
criteria and the secondary review criteria, the Exceptions Panel is guided to recommend a GBE
is not granted. The Exceptions Panel may also take into account the subjective criteria and other
circumstances or facts that, even though the player has scored less than five (5) points, lead it
to conclude a GBE should be granted.
MISCELLANEOUS
4. THIRD STAGE REVIEW
If a player does not met the above primary review or secondary review criteria, the Exceptions
Panel will consider any highly extenuating circumstances that are presented (in writing only) on
behalf of that player and the applicant club. This will include consideration of extraordinary
events or circumstances beyond the players or the National Associations control.
542
CONSTITUTION OF THE PROFESSIONAL FOOTBALL
NEGOTIATING AND CONSULTATIVE COMMITTEE
(ENGLAND AND WALES)
Title
1. The committee shall be called the Professional Football Negotiating and Consultative
Committee (P.F.N.C.C.).
Membership
2. The committee shall consist of
(a) four representatives from the Professional Footballers Association;
(b) two representatives from The Football League Limited;
(c) two representatives from The FA Premier League Limited;
(d) one representative from The Football Association Limited;
(e) the Chief Executive/Officers of each of the four bodies listed above.
Scope
3. The committee shall have within its scope Professional Association Football Players employed
by clubs in membership of The Football League Limited and The FA Premier League Limited.
Chairman
5. (a) The committee shall appoint an independent chairman.
(b) In the event of the unavoidable absence of the independent chairman, a meeting
may be chaired by a member of the Committee by agreement of all the four bodies
listed in Clause 2.
543
MISCELLANEOUS
Function
4. The function of the committee shall be:
(a) to consider questions concerning players remuneration and other terms and
conditions of employment, including contractual obligations, minimum pay,
bonuses governed by League rules, pensions, fringe benefits, holidays, standard
working conditions and insurance, as well as procedural matters involving the
negotiating machinery, and the contract appeals machinery. This should not be
regarded as an exhaustive list. No major changes in the regulations of the Leagues
affecting a players terms and conditions of employment shall take place without
full discussion and agreement in the P.F.N.C.C.;
and
(b) to facilitate consultation between the parties on any matter relating to professional
Association Football upon which any of the parties considers that the view of the
P.F.N.C.C. would be desirable to help further the best interests of the game.
CONSTITUTION OF THE PROFESSIONAL FOOTBALL
NEGOTIATING AND CONSULTATIVE COMMITTEE
(ENGLAND AND WALES)
Secretary
6. (a) The Secretary of the Football League and the Chief Executive of the Professional
Footballers Association shall act as joint secretaries of the P.F.N.C.C.
(b) The administration and secretarial services to be provided by The Football League.
Executive Officer
7. The persons listed in clause 2(e) above shall meet as and when necessary and in any
event shallmeet before any meeting of the P.F.N.C.C. in order to give preliminary
consideration to items which are to appear on the Agenda for the next P.F.N.C.C. meeting.
Meetings
8. (a) There shall be four ordinary meetings of the P.F.N.C.C. each year. They shall
takeplace on the first Thursday in July, October and April, and the second
Thursdayin January.
At least 14 days notice of an ordinary meeting shall be given and the business of
the meeting shall be stated in the notice.
(b) Special meetings may be called at the discretion of the chairman at the request of
any member. At least seven days notice of such meetings shall be given and the
business of the meeting shall be stated in the notice.
(c) Other parties may be invited to attend any meeting of the P.F.N.C.C. at the request
of any member and at the Chairmans discretion. The Chairman shall also be
empowered to invite third parties to any meeting following consultation with
themembers.
(d) The Football League and The FA Premier League shall communicate with those
clubs employing the representatives of the Professional Footballers Association,
and their deputies, and request that such representatives and deputies be given
reasonable facilities to attend meetings of the P.F.N.C.C.
MISCELLANEOUS
Minutes
9. Full minutes of all meetings shall be drafted by the joint secretaries and chairman.
Resolution of differences
10. (a) It shall be the duty of the members of the committee to take all reasonable steps to
ensure the acceptance of agreements reached. Where appropriate, any of the
bodies listed in Clause 2 may seek the assistance of the chairman in expounding and
explaining agreements reached.
(b) The parties to any dispute may by agreement seek the advice of the chairman on
any matter before the committee.
544
CONSTITUTION OF THE PROFESSIONAL FOOTBALL
NEGOTIATING AND CONSULTATIVE COMMITTEE
(ENGLAND AND WALES)
(c) The parties to any dispute may by agreement seek independent arbitration by the
Conciliation and Arbitration Service or any other agreed independent arbitrator.
Sub-Committees
11. The committee shall have power to set up such sub-committees or joint working parties
not restricted to members of the committee as it considers necessary. Full minutes of
sub-committee meetings shall be kept and appended to minutes of meetings of the
P.F.N.C.C. for distribution to members.
Finance
12. (a) Each of the bodies listed in Clause 2 shall be responsible for meeting the expenses of
its representative(s) for attending meetings.
(b) The expenses of the chairman shall be shared equally by the bodies listed in Clause 2.
(c) Any other expense shall be shared equally by the bodies listed in Clause 2, including
the charges of The Football League Ltd for secretarial services.
Amendment of constitution
13. Alteration in the constitution of the committee shall only be considered at a meeting
called specifically for that purpose and notice of any proposed alteration shall be given in
writing 28 days previous to such meeting. Any alteration to the constitution shall only take
effect after approval to it has been given by each of the bodies listed in Clause 2.
Press notice
14. After each meeting, where appropriate, an agreed press statement shall be made available
and members shall refrain from any critical comment in the press, radio or on television.
Status of constitution
15. This constitution shall be presented to the next general meeting of the bodies listed in
Clause 2. If approved by each of them it shall be regarded as an agreement binding on each
and all of them and shall be appended to the rules of each body.
MISCELLANEOUS
545
546
MISCELLANEOUS
STATISTICS
STATISTICS
548
STATISTICS
PREMIER LEAGUE TABLE
SEASON 2014/15
HOME
POS. CLUB
AWAY
Pld
GF
GA
GF
GA GD PTS
Chelsea
38
15
36
11
37
23
41 87
Manchester City
38
14
44
14
10
39
24
45 79
Arsenal
38
12
41
14
10
30
22
35 75
Manchester United
38
14
41
15
21
22
25 70
Tottenham Hotspur
38
10
31
24
27
29
5 64
Liverpool
38
10
30
20
22
28
4 62
Southampton
38
11
37
13
10
17
20
21 60
Swansea City
38
27
22
19
27
-3 56
Stoke City
38
10
32
22
16
23
3 54
10
Crystal Palace
38
10
21
27
26
24
-4 48
11
Everton
38
27
21
10
21
29
-2 47
12
West Ham United
38
25
18
19
29
-3 47
13
West Bromwich Albion
38
24
26
14
25 -13 44
14
Leicester City
38
28
22
12
18
33
15
Newcastle United
38
26
27
12
14
36 -23 39
16
Sunderland
38
16
27
15
26 -22 38
17
Aston Villa
38
18
25
12
13
32 -26 38
18
Hull City
38
19
24
10
14
27 -18 35
19
Burnley
38
14
21
11
14
32 -25 33
20
Queens Park Rangers
38
23
24
16
19
49 -31 30
-9 41
STATISTICS
549
PREMIER LEAGUE ATTENDANCES
SEASON 2014/15
Club
Pld
Average
Aggregate
Utilisation Max
Opposition
Arsenal
19
59,992
1,139,843
99.5%
v Liverpool
60,081
Aston Villa
19
34,133
648,518
80.0%
41,273
v Manchester United
Burnley
19
19,149
363,830
89.5%
21,385
v Manchester United
Chelsea
19
41,546
789,380
99.4%
41,629
v Burnley
Crystal Palace
19
24,388
463,367
97.3%
25,197
v Everton
Everton
19
38,406
729,714
97.1%
39,621
v Liverpool
Hull City
19
23,350
443,656
91.9%
24,742
v Liverpool
Leicester City
19
31,698
602,265
98.1%
32,021
v Chelsea
Liverpool
19
44,675
848,823
98.5%
45,035
v Stoke City
Manchester City
19
45,345
861,559
97.2%
45,919
v Southampton
Manchester United
19
75,335
1,431,362
99.6%
75,454
v West Bromwich Albion
Newcastle United
19
50,500
959,494
96.4%
52,347
v Everton
Queens Park Rangers
19
17,808
338,350
98.9%
18,103
v Manchester United
Southampton
19
30,652
582,394
94.3%
31,723
v Liverpool
Stoke City
19
27,081
514,547
97.6%
27,602
v Liverpool
Sunderland
19
43,157
819,985
88.6%
47,563
v Newcastle United
Swansea City
19
20,561
390,655
98.7%
20,828
v Liverpool
Tottenham Hotspur
19
35,769
679,612
98.6%
36,130
v Liverpool
25,035
475,661
94.7%
26,699
v Leicester City
19
34,682
658,967
98.1%
34,960
v Arsenal
TOTAL
380
36,163
13,741,982 95.9%
STATISTICS
West Bromwich Albion 19
West Ham United
550
PREMIER LEAGUE RESULTS
SEASON 2014/15
Arsenal
3-0
0-0 2-1
2-0
2-2
2-1
4-1
0-2
2-2
1-1
1-2
0-0 3-3
4-1
2-1
2-1
1-0
1-1
1-0
0-0 0-0 0-1
3-0
0-0 0-1
1-1
4-1
3-0
0-0 2-2
1-3
2-0
1-3
2-1
0-1
1-1
1-1
0-1
1-2
2-1
0-0 2-2
1-1
551
STATISTICS
5-0
0-2
0-0 1-1
1-0
2-1
1-0
2-1
2-1
0-1
1-2
0-0 3-2
0-1
0-0 0-1
1-2
1-0
2-0
0-2
0-0 0-3
2-0
1-2
0-1
1-3
0-3
2-3
3-0
2-4
0-1
0-0 2-1
1-0
2-1
2-1
0-1
1-2
2-0
3-2
2-1
0-0 2-0
3-0
2-0
0-0 4-1
0-1
0-0
0-1
4-1
1-1
1-0
3-0
3-2
2-0
2-1
1-3
2-1
1-2
1-2
5-1
3-2
2-3
2-1
2-0
1-1
3-0
0-1
0-1
2-0
2-1
1-0
5-3
6-0 2-0
1-1
1-2
4-0 0-1
2-2
0-0 0-0
0-1
5-0
1-2
2-0
2-1
1-0
3-1
0-1
2-2
1-0
3-0
3-0
0-0 1-1
1-2
1-2
2-2
1-1
0-1
0-0 2-2
2-2
2-1
8-0 0-1
1-1
1-0
1-3
4-2
Aston Villa
1-3
3-1
1-1
2-1
0-1
1-1
Burnley
2-1
2-1
2-1
2-0
0-1
3-1
4-0 2-1
1-1
1-0
4-2
0-2
1-0
3-1
1-1
3-1
0-2
1-2
2-0
1-1
3-0
2-2
1-1
2-1
2-0
1-1
2-0
0-0 2-2
0-0
2-0
1-0
0-3
0-1
2-0
3-0
2-3
2-2
3-1
2-3
1-4
0-2
1-0
2-0
2-0
1-1
1-1
1-0
0-2
2-0
1-0
Chelsea
3-6
0-0 1-2
0-1
3-0
3-2
6-1
1-0
1-0
2-3
1-3
2-2
2-0
2-2
0-0 0-1
1-0
1-3
1-0
0-1
0-1
1-1
1-3
0-1
0-1
1-2
3-0
2-1
2-0
2-1
0-2
3-0
2-2
1-1
1-0
3-2
1-0
1-4
1-1
1-2
2-0
2-0
1-1
3-0
0-0 1-2
3-3
2-0
2-4
0-1
2-2
1-0
2-2
2-1
1-0
0-1
0-0 0-1
3-2
1-3
Crystal Palace
1-3
0-1
3-1
0-1
1-2
2-0
2-1
1-0
Everton
1-1
3-2
3-3
1-1
1-3
1-2
0-3
3-1
Hull City
2-2
3-1
2-0
0-2
3-1
4-0 1-0
0-1
3-1
Leicester City
0-2
1-0
2-0
1-1
0-0 1-2
2-0
1-1
Liverpool
1-1
2-0
1-2
1-1
0-1
3-1
3-0
Manchester City
1-2
6-1
1-1
0-0 1-4
0-3
2-2
1-2
Manchester United
1-2
0-1
0-5
4-3
1-0
3-0
Newcastle United
2-0
1-0
0-4 2-0
2-0
1-0
2-1
Queens Park Rangers
3-2
1-0
0-0 2-1
1-1
3-1
Southampton
0-2
5-3
1-0
0-0 1-1
Stoke City
2-1
2-1
1-3
2-0
Sunderland
0-1
1-4
2-2
Swansea City
2-1
2-0
0-2
Tottenham Hotspur
0-2
0-0 1-0
1-0
1-2
2-2
West Ham United
1-1
West Ham United
2-1
West Bromwich Albion
0-0 1-3
Tottenham Hotspur
3-1
Sunderland
2-3
Stoke City
2-0
Southampton
1-0
Queens Park Rangers
3-0
Newcastle United
0-2
Manchester United
1-2
Manchester City
2-2
Liverpool
1-3
Leicester City
0-1
Hull City
4-0 3-0
Everton
1-0
Chelsea
1-1
Swansea City
Burnley
0-1
Crystal Palace
Aston Villa
West Bromwich Albion 0-1
Arsenal
PLAYER APPEARANCES AND GOALS
STATISTICS
SEASON 2014/15
Arsenal
Ajayi, Oluwasemilogo
Adesewo Ibidapo
Akpom, Chuba
Armando De Abreu, Gabriel
Arteta Amatriain, Mikel
Bellerin, Hector
Campbell, Joel
Cazorla, Santiago
Chambers, Calum
Coquelin, Francis
Debuchy, Mathieu
Diaby, Vassiriki Abou
Flamini, Mathieu
Gibbs, Kieran James Ricardo
Giroud, Olivier
Koscielny, Laurent
Macey, Matthew Ryan
P
0
0
4
6
17
0
33
17
19
10
0
15
18
21
26
0
Aston Villa
Agbonlahor, Gabriel
Bacuna, Leandro Jones Johan
Baker, Nathan Luke
Bent, Darren Ashley
Benteke, Christian
Calder, Riccardo
Cissokho, Aly
Clark, Ciaran
Cleverley, Thomas William
Cole, Joseph John
Delph, Fabian
El Ahmadi Aroussi, Karim
Gil de Pareja Vicent, Carles
Given, Shay John James
Grealish, Jack
Green, Andre
Guzan, Bradley Edwin
P
30
10
8
0
26
0
24
22
31
3
27
0
4
3
7
0
34
Sub Sub
P NP GS
0
3
2
1
3
4
4
6
3
0
0
8
4
6
1
0
3
2
7
1
10
10
1
3
6
1
1
9
13
0
3
3
Sub Sub
P NP
4
0
9
15
3
5
7
4
3
0
0
1
1
2
3
4
0
2
9
8
1
0
0
1
1
5
0
34
10
11
0
1
0
4
0
0
0
0
2
0
7
1
0
1
0
1
0
14
3
0
GS
6
0
0
0
13
0
0
1
3
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
P
0
3
35
26
18
Sub Sub
P NP
1
3
1
12
0
2
2
5
0
5
17
21
0
23
5
34
2
17
4
18
9
6
1
7
6
10
1
1
0
10
7
5
1
1
9
1
15
1
3
17
11
1
3
1
4
0
6
2
16
0
0
5
4
2
Hepburn-Murphy, Rushian
Herd, Christopher
Hutton, Alan
Kinsella, Lewis
Lowton, Matthew John
NZogbia, Charles
Okore, Tetchi Jores Charlemagne U
Richardson, Kieran Edward
Robinson, Callum Jack
Sanchez Moreno, Carlos Alberto
Senderos, Philippe
Sinclair, Scott Andrew
Steer, Jed John
Vlaar, Ron Peter
Weimann, Andreas
Westwood, Ashley Roy
P
0
0
27
0
8
19
22
16
0
20
7
5
1
19
20
25
Sub
P
1
0
3
0
4
8
1
6
0
8
1
4
0
1
11
2
Sub
NP
0
6
0
2
12
7
6
3
6
9
4
2
0
3
6
2
GS
0
0
1
0
0
0
1
0
0
1
0
1
0
0
3
0
Key: P = Played Sub P = Sub Played Sub NP = Sub Not Played GS = Goals Scored
552
GS
0
0
0
0
0
Maitland-Niles, Ainsley
Martinez, Damian Emiliano
Mertesacker, Per
Monreal, Ignacio
Ospina, David
Oxlade-Chamberlain, Alexander
Mark David
Ozil, Mesut
Podolski, Lukas
Ramsey, Aaron James
Rosicky, Tomas
Sanchez, Alexis
Sanogo, Yaya
Szczesny, Wojciech Tomasz
Walcott, Theo James
Welbeck, Daniel
Wilshere, Jack Andrew
PLAYER APPEARANCES AND GOALS
SEASON 2014/15
P
36
28
35
0
21
0
0
38
0
35
36
10
17
10
Sub Sub
P
NP
1
0
7
1
0
0
4
4
0
9
0
1
0
38
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
15
12
4
12
7
19
GS
2
5
5
0
0
0
0
0
0
11
0
0
0
1
Chelsea
Ake, Nathan Benjamin
Azpilicueta Tanco, Cesar
Baker, Lewis Renard
Beeney, Mitchell Ryan
Blackman, Jamal Clint-Ross
Boga, Jeremie
Borges da Silva, Willian
Brown, Isiah Jay
Cahill, Gary James
Cech, Petr
Christensen, Andreas Bodtker
Courtois, Thibaut
Cuadrado Bello, Juan Guillermo
Da Silva Costa, Diego
Dos Santos Emboaba Junior, Oscar
Drogba, Didier
P
0
29
0
0
0
0
28
0
33
6
0
32
4
24
26
8
Sub Sub
P
NP
1
9
0
6
0
1
0
1
0
1
0
1
8
1
1
2
3
2
1
29
1
2
0
5
8
3
2
0
2
3
20
5
GS
0
0
0
0
0
0
2
0
1
0
0
0
0
20
6
4
Lafferty, Daniel Patrick
Long, Kevin Finbarr
Marney, Dean Edward
Mee, Benjamin Thomas
Reid, Steven John
Shackell, Jason
Sordell, Marvin Anthony
Taylor, Matthew Simon
Trippier, Kieran John
Ulvestad, Fredrik
Vokes, Samuel Michael
Wallace, Ross
Ward, Stephen Robert
P
0
0
20
32
1
38
2
7
38
1
5
1
7
Sub Sub
P
NP
1
2
1
13
0
0
1
5
6
15
0
0
12
8
3
0
0
0
1
4
10
2
14
17
2
14
GS
0
0
0
2
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
Fabregas Soler, Francesc
Hazard, Eden
Ivanovic, Branislav
Kasmirski, Filipe Luis
Loftus Cheek, Ruben
Matic, Nemanja
Mikel, John Obi
Remy, Loic
Salah, Mohamed
Santos Do Nascimento, Ramires
Schurrle, Andre
Schwarzer, Mark
Solanke-Mitchell, Dominic Ayodele
Terry, John George
Torres Sanz, Fernando Jose
Zouma, Kurt Happy
P
33
38
38
9
2
35
6
6
0
11
5
0
0
38
0
7
Sub Sub
P
NP
1
0
0
0
0
0
6
20
1
6
1
0
12
10
13
8
3
6
12
3
9
4
0
1
0
3
0
0
0
1
8
20
GS
3
14
4
0
0
1
0
7
0
2
3
0
0
5
0
0
553
STATISTICS
Burnley
Arfield, Scott
Barnes, Ashley Luke
Boyd, George Jan
Chalobah, Nathaniel Nyakie
Duff, Michael James
Dummigan, Cameron
Gilks, Matthew
Heaton, Thomas David
Hewitt, Steven Daniel
Ings, Daniel William John
Jones, David Frank Llwyd
Jutkiewicz, Lukas Isaac Paul
Keane, Michael Vincent
Kightly, Michael John
PLAYER APPEARANCES AND GOALS
STATISTICS
SEASON 2014/15
Crystal Palace
Ameobi, Foluwashola
Bannan, Barry
Boateng, Hiram Kojo Kwarteng
Bolasie, Yannick
Campbell, Fraizer Lee
Chamakh, Marouane
Dann, Scott
Delaney, Damien Finbarr
Doyle, Kevin Edward
Fryers, Ezekiel David
Gayle, Dwight Devon Boyd
Gray, Jake Stephen
Guedioura, Adlene
Hangeland, Brede Paulsen
Hennessey, Wayne Robert
Jedinak, Michael John
Johnson, Andrew
Kelly, Martin Ronald
P
0
2
0
31
13
15
34
28
0
0
11
0
0
12
2
24
0
27
Sub Sub
P
NP
4
4
5
9
0
3
3
0
7
9
3
1
0
0
1
5
3
7
1
5
14
8
0
1
7
2
2
17
1
35
0
3
0
1
4
7
GS
0
0
0
4
4
2
2
0
0
0
5
0
0
2
0
5
0
0
P
Ledley, Joseph Christopher
30
Kelly, Martin Ronald
27
Ledley, Joseph Christopher
30
Lee, Chung Yong
1
Mariappa, Adrian Joseph
8
McArthur, James
29
McCarthy, Patrick
0
Murray, Glenn
9
Mutch, Jordon James Edward Sydney 4
OKeefe, Stuart Antony Alan
1
Puncheon, Jason David Ian
31
Sanogo, Yaya
3
Souare, Pape NDiaye
7
Speroni, Julian Maria
36
Thomas, Jerome William
0
Ward, Joel Edward Philip
37
Williams, Jonathan Peter
0
Zaha, Dazet Wilfried Armel
23
Everton
Alcaraz, Antolin
Baines, Leighton John
Barkley, Ross
Barry, Gareth
Besic, Muhamed
Browning, Tyias
Coleman, Seamus
Distin, Sylvain
Etoo Fils, Samuel
Galloway, Brendan Joel Zibusiso
Garbutt, Luke
Gibson, Darron Thomas Daniel
Griffiths, Russell John
Hibbert, Anthony James
Howard, Timothy Matthew
Jagielka, Philip Nikodem
P
6
31
22
33
15
0
34
12
8
2
3
3
0
4
32
37
Sub Sub
P NP
2
23
0
0
7
2
0
0
8
14
2
4
1
0
1
3
6
4
0
0
1
19
6
7
0
6
0
7
0
0
0
0
GS
0
2
2
0
0
0
3
0
3
0
0
0
0
0
0
4
P
Kone, Arouna
7
Ledson, Ryan Graham
0
Lennon, Aaron
12
Lukaku, Romelu Menama
32
McAleny, Conor Michael
0
McCarthy, James
27
McGeady, Aiden John
10
Mirallas Y Castillo, Kevin Antonio J G 18
Naismith, Steven John
22
Osman, Leon
13
Oviedo Jimenez, Bryan Josue
2
Pienaar, Steven
3
Robles Blazquez, Joel
6
Stones, John
23
Twasam, Christian Atsu
1
554
Sub Sub
P NP
2
2
4
7
2
2
2
2
4
11
3
1
0
3
8
3
3
3
1
0
6
0
7
1
2
3
0
2
1
9
0
0
2
1
8
4
Sub Sub
P
NP
5
11
0
1
2
0
4
0
0
1
1
0
6
10
11
1
9
3
8
5
4
2
6
4
1
31
0
5
4
8
GS
2
0
2
0
0
2
0
7
0
0
6
0
0
0
0
1
0
4
GS
1
0
2
10
0
2
1
7
6
2
0
0
0
1
0
PLAYER APPEARANCES AND GOALS
SEASON 2014/15
P
13
5
0
17
17
23
21
28
10
38
2
10
15
30
3
Sub Sub
P NP
12
7
3
1
1
0
10
6
5
11
0
5
0
9
0
1
2
0
0
0
1
8
0
20
10
7
1
1
4
2
GS
1
0
0
0
0
2
0
1
4
2
0
0
4
0
0
Leicester City
Albrighton, Marc Kevin
Cambiasso, Esteban
De Laet, Ritchie Ria Alfons
Drinkwater, Daniel Noel
Hamer, Benjamin John
Hammond, Dean John
Hopper, Thomas Edward
Huth, Robert
James, Matthew Lee
King, Andrew
Knockaert, Anthony
Konchesky, Paul Martyn
Kramaric, Andrej
Lawrence, Thomas Morris
Mahrez, Riyad
P
10
27
20
16
8
9
0
14
20
16
3
26
6
0
25
Sub Sub
P NP
8
2
4
2
6
7
7
13
0
16
3
10
0
2
0
0
7
3
8
10
6
6
0
10
7
4
3
2
5
4
GS
2
5
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
2
0
1
2
0
5
Jakupovic, Eldin
Jelavic, Nikica
Livermore, Jake Cyril
Maguire, Harry
McGregor, Allan James
McShane, Paul David
Meyler, David
NDoye, Dame
Quinn, Stephen
Ramirez Pereyra, Gaston Exequiel
Robertson, Andrew
Rosenior, Liam James
Sagbo Latte, Yannick Anister
Snodgrass, Robert
Watson, Rory
P
2
21
35
0
26
19
19
13
17
11
17
5
0
1
0
Sub Sub
P
NP GS
1
8
0
5
1
8
0
0
1
3
4
0
0
7
0
1
4
1
9
4
1
2
0
5
11
9
1
11
3
1
7
6
0
8
15
0
4
13
0
0
0
0
0
2
0
Moore, Liam Simon
Morgan, Westley Nathan
Nugent, David James
Powell, Nicholas Edward
Schlupp, Jeffrey
Schmeichel, Kasper Peter
Schwarzer, Mark
Simpson, Daniel Peter
Smith, Adam Clifford
Taylor-Fletcher, Gary
Ulloa Fernandez, Jose Leonardo
Upson, Matthew James
Vardy, Jamie
Wasilewski, Marcin
Wood, Chris
P
10
37
16
0
30
24
6
13
0
0
29
5
26
22
0
Sub Sub
P NP
1
9
0
0
13
1
3
1
2
2
0
1
0
12
1
0
0
9
1
1
8
1
0
2
8
0
3
13
7
12
GS
0
2
5
0
3
0
0
0
0
0
10
0
5
1
1
555
STATISTICS
Hull City
Aluko, Sone
Ben Arfa, Hatem
Boyd, George Jan
Brady, Robert
Bruce, Alex Stephen
Chester, James Grant
Davies, Curtis
Dawson, Michael Richard
Diame, Mohamed
Eissa, Ahmed Elmehamady A A
Figueroa Rochez, Maynor Alexis
Harper, Stephen Alan
Hernandez Platero, Abel Mathias
Huddlestone, Thomas Andrew
Ince, Thomas
PLAYER APPEARANCES AND GOALS
SEASON 2014/15
Liverpool
Allen, Joseph Michael
Balotelli, Mario Barwuah
Borini, Fabio
Brannagan, Cameron
Can, Emre
Coutinho Correia, Philippe
Fernandez Saenz de Le Torre, Jesus J
Gerrard MBE, Steven George
Henderson, Jordan Brian
Ibe, Jordon Femi Ashley
Johnson, Glen McLeod Cooper
Jones, Bradley
Lallana, Adam David
Lambert, Rickie Lee
Lovren, Dejan
Manquillo Gaitan, Javier
P
16
10
3
0
23
32
0
25
36
7
15
3
23
7
22
10
P
30
0
2
1
2
Clichy, Gael
Demichelis, Martin Gaston
Dzeko, Edin
Esmoris Tasende, Jose Angel
Hart, Charles Joseph John
Jimenez Silva, David Josue
Jovetic, Stevan
Kolarov, Aleksandar
23
28
11
0
36
32
9
16
STATISTICS
Manchester City
Aguero Del Castillo, Sergio
Ambrose, Thierry
Bony, Wilfried Guemiand
Boyata, Dedryck Anga
Caballero Lazcano, Wilfredo D
556
Sub Sub
P
NP
5
7
6
4
9
4
0
3
4
7
3
2
0
1
4
1
1
0
5
1
4
7
0
21
4
4
18
11
4
6
0
12
Sub Sub
P
NP
3
0
0
1
8
0
1
12
0
36
0
3
11
0
0
0
8
5
8
7
7
1
2
0
6
9
GS
1
1
1
0
1
5
0
9
6
0
1
0
5
2
0
0
Markovic, Lazar
Mignolet, Simon
Moreno Perez, Alberto
Ojo, Oluwaseyi
Pezzini Leiva, Lucas
Rossiter, Jordan
Sakho, Mamadou
Sanchez Diaz, Jose Enrique
Sinclair, Jerome Terence
Skrtel, Martin
Sterling, Raheem Shaquille
Sturridge, Daniel
Toure, Kolo Abib
Ward, Daniel
Williams, Michael Jordan
P
11
35
26
0
16
0
15
2
0
33
34
7
7
0
0
GS
26
0
2
0
0
Kompany, Vincent
Lampard, Frank James
Luiz Roza, Fernando
Mangala, Eliaquim
Milner, James Philip
P
23
10
25
24
18
1
1
4
0
0
12
5
2
Nasri, Samir
Navas, Jesus
Pozo La Rosa, Jose Angel
Reges, Fernando Francisco
Sagna, Bacary
Sinclair, Scott Andrew
Toure, Gnegneri Yaya
Zabaleta Girod, Pablo Javier
18
23
1
22
8
0
27
29
Sub Sub
P
NP
8
13
1
2
2
6
0
2
4
6
0
1
1
2
2
6
2
0
0
0
1
1
5
0
5
21
0
14
0
3
Sub Sub
P
NP
2
3
22
1
8
3
1
6
14
2
6
12
2
3
1
2
2
0
2
1
4
6
23
4
0
8
GS
2
0
2
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
7
4
0
0
0
GS
0
6
3
0
5
2
0
0
2
0
0
10
1
PLAYER APPEARANCES AND GOALS
SEASON 2014/15
Sub Sub
P
NP
Almedia Da Cunha, Luis Carlos
Amos, Benjamin Paul
Blackett, Tyler Nathan
Blind, Daley
Carrick, Michael
0
0
6
25
16
1
0
5
0
2
0
3
11
0
3
0
0
0
2
1
Kagawa, Shinji
Keane, Michael Vincent
Keane, William David
Lindegaard, Anders Rozenkrantz
Lingard, Jesse Ellis
0
0
0
0
1
0
1
0
0
0
2
2
1
21
0
0
0
0
0
0
Cleverley, Thomas William
De Abreu Oliveira, Anderson Luis
De Gea Quintana, David
Di Maria, Angel Fabian
Evans, Jonathan Grant
Fellaini-Bakkioui, Marouane
Fletcher, Ashley Michael
Fletcher, Darren Barr
Garcia Zarate, Radamel Falcao
Hernandez Balcazar, Javier
Herrera Aguera, Ander
Hoelgebaum Pereira, Andreas H
James, Reece
Januzaj, Adnan
Jones, Philip Anthony
1
0
37
20
12
19
0
4
14
1
19
0
0
7
22
0
1
0
7
2
8
0
7
12
0
7
1
0
11
0
0
0
0
1
1
2
1
8
3
2
6
11
3
17
2
0
0
0
3
0
6
0
0
4
0
6
0
0
0
0
Mata Garcia, Juan Manuel
McNair, Patrick James Coleman
Pereira da Silva, Rafael
Rojo, Faustino Marcos Alberto
Rooney, Wayne Mark
Shaw, Luke Paul Hoare
Smalling, Christopher
Thorpe, Thomas Joseph
Valdes Arribas, Victor
Valencia Mosquera, Luis Antonio
Van Persie, Robin
Vermijl, Marnick Danny
Welbeck, Daniel
Wilson, James Antony
Young, Ashley Simon
27
12
6
20
33
15
21
0
1
29
25
0
0
2
23
6
4
4
2
0
1
4
1
1
3
2
0
2
11
3
5
12
5
0
0
2
5
1
13
2
2
1
0
9
0
9
0
0
0
12
0
4
0
0
0
10
0
0
1
2
Newcastle United
Aarons, Rolando
Abeid, Mehdi
Alnwick, Jak
Ameobi, Samuel
Anita, Vurnon San Benito
Armstrong, Adam James
Cabella, Remy
Cisse, Papiss Demba
Colback, Jack Raymond
Coloccini, Fabricio
De Jong, Siem
Dummett, Paul
Elliot, Robert
Ferreyra, Facundo
Gouffran, Yoan
Gutierrez, Ayoze Perez
Gutierrez, Jonas Manuel
P
0
7
5
15
17
1
21
11
35
32
1
24
3
0
24
25
6
Haidara, Massadio
Janmaat, Daryl
Kemen, Olivier
Krul, Timothy Michael
Obertan, Gabriel Antoine
Riviere, Emmanuel
Santon, Davide
Satka, Lubomir
Sissoko, Moussa
Sterry, Jamie Michael
Streete, Remie
Taylor, Ryan Anthony
Taylor, Steven Vincent
Tiote, Cheik Ismael
Vuckic, Haris
Williamson, Michael James
Woodman, Frederick John
P
12
37
0
30
8
15
0
0
34
0
0
11
7
10
0
27
0
Sub Sub
P
NP
3
9
0
0
0
3
0
0
5
8
8
10
0
5
0
6
0
0
0
2
0
2
3
4
3
6
1
0
1
2
4
2
0
18
GS
0
1
0
0
1
1
0
0
4
0
0
0
1
0
0
1
0
GS
1
0
0
2
0
0
1
11
4
1
1
0
0
0
2
7
1
GS
557
STATISTICS
Sub Sub
P
NP
4
1
6
7
1
3
10
5
2
17
10 13
10
4
11
1
0
0
0
0
3
1
1
2
0
16
0
3
7
6
11
1
4
1
GS
Sub Sub
P
NP
Manchester United
PLAYER APPEARANCES AND GOALS
STATISTICS
SEASON 2014/15
Sub Sub
P
NP
Austin, Charlie
Barton, Joseph
Caulker, Steven Roy
Comley, Brandon
Cordiero, Sandro Raniere G
Doughty, Michael Edward
Dunne, Richard Patrick
Faurlin, Alejandro Damian
Fer, Leroy
Ferdinand, Rio Gavin
Furlong, Darnell Anthony
Green, Robert Paul
35
27
34
0
17
0
22
1
27
11
3
36
0
1
1
1
0
3
1
1
2
0
0
0
0
0
1
4
0
3
4
0
0
11
3
0
18
1
1
0
1
0
0
0
6
0
0
0
Kranjcar, Niko
McCarthy, Alex Simon
Mitchell, Aaron
Murphy, Brian
Mutch, Jordon James Edward Sydney
Onuoha, Chinedum
Petrasso, Michael Alexander
Phillips, Matthew
Remy, Loic
Simpson, Daniel Peter
Sukyoung, Yun
Sutherland, Frankie Jay
11
2
0
0
6
22
0
20
2
1
19
0
11
1
0
0
3
1
0
5
0
0
4
0
8
30
2
7
6
10
1
11
0
1
0
1
2
0
0
0
0
0
0
3
0
0
0
0
Grego-Cox, Reece Randall
Henry, Karl Levi Daniel
Hill, Clinton Scott
Hoilett, David Wayne
Isla, Mauricio
Kpekawa, Cole Desmond
1
27
15
9
24
0
3
6
4
13
2
1
4
4
11
11
4
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
Taarabt, Adel
Traore, Armand
Vargas Rojas, Eduardo Jesus
Wright-Phillips, Shaun Cameron
Zamora, Robert Lester
Zarate, Mauro Matias
3
7
16
1
19
0
4
9
5
3
12
4
3
3
4
11
4
3
0
0
3
0
3
0
Southampton
Alderweireld, Toby Albertine
26
Long, Shane Patrick
16
16
Bertrand, Ryan
34
Mane, Sadio
24
10
Clyne, Nathaniel Edwin
35
Mayuka, Emmanuel
Cork, Jack Frank Porteous
McCarthy, Jason Sean
Davis, Kelvin Geoffery
31
McQueen, Samuel James
Davis, Steven
32
Pelle, Graziano
37
12
Duricic, Filip
Ramirez Pereyra, Gaston Exequiel
Elia, Eljero
Reed, Harrison James
20
Flannigan, Jake
Schneiderlin, Morgan
24
Fonte, Jose Miguel
37
Seager, Ryan Paul
Forster, Fraser Gerard
30
Sliti-Taider, Saphir
Gallagher, Samuel James
Stephens, Jack
Gape, Dominic Edward
Tadic, Dusan
24
Gardos, Florin
22
Targett, Matthew Robert
20
Gazzaniga, Paulo Dino
Wanyama, Victor
26
Hesketh, Jake Alexander
Ward-Prowse, James Michael Edward
16
Hooiveld, Jos
Yoshida, Maya
18
12
Isgrove, Lloyd Jeffrey
558
Sub Sub
P
NP
GS
Sub Sub
P
NP
Queens Park Rangers
GS
Sub Sub
P
NP
GS
GS
PLAYER APPEARANCES AND GOALS
SEASON 2014/15
P
15
20
1
24
35
3
21
17
28
0
0
11
14
19
Sub Sub
P
NP
14
9
9
6
8
6
1
6
0
1
0
23
6
3
16
4
6
1
1
7
1
13
6
10
2
5
0
1
GS
7
1
0
0
0
0
0
8
11
0
0
0
4
3
Sunderland
Agnew, Liam John
Altidore, Josmer
Alvarez, Ricardo Gabriel
Bridcutt, Liam Robert
Brown, Wesley Michael
Buckley, William Edward
Cattermole, Lee Barry
Coates Nion, Sebastian
Defoe, Jermain Colin
Fletcher, Steven Kenneth
Giaccherini, Emanuele
Gomez Garcia-Penche, Jordi
Graham, Daniel Anthony William
Honeyman, George Christopher
Johnson, Adam
Jones, Billy
Larsson, Sebastian Bengt Ulf
P
0
2
5
10
23
9
26
9
17
20
2
22
7
0
23
14
36
Sub Sub
P
NP
0
4
9
8
8
4
8
16
2
4
13
8
2
1
1
14
0
0
10
3
6
4
7
6
7
9
0
1
9
1
0
8
0
0
GS
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
4
5
0
4
1
0
4
0
3
Muniesa Martinez, Marc
Nzonzi, Steven Nkemboanza Mike C
Odemwingie, Peter
Palacios Suazo, Wilson Roberto
Pieters, Erik
Shawcross, Ryan James
Shenton, Oliver
Sidwell, Steven James
Sorensen, Thomas
Walters, Jonathan Ronald
Whelan, Glenn David
Wilkinson, Andrew Gordon
Wilson, Marc David
Wollscheid, Philipp
P
14
38
1
0
29
32
0
5
0
28
26
0
25
12
Sub Sub
P
NP
5
9
0
0
6
0
0
4
2
2
0
0
1
7
7
15
0
14
4
2
2
5
0
2
2
7
0
5
GS
0
3
0
0
0
2
0
0
0
8
0
0
0
0
Mandron, Mikael
Mannone, Vito
Mavrias, Charalampos
OShea, John Francis
Pantilimon, Costel Fane
Pickford, Jordan Lee
Reveillere, Anthony
Roberge, Valentin
Robson, Thomas
Rodwell, Jack
Smith, Martin
Tavares Varela, Adilson
Van Aanholt, Patrick John Miguel
Vergini, Santiago
Watmore, Duncan Ian
Wickham, Connor Neil Ralph
P
0
10
0
37
28
0
15
1
0
17
0
0
26
28
0
31
Sub Sub
P
NP
1
0
0
28
0
8
0
0
0
9
0
1
1
8
0
1
0
3
6
4
0
1
0
3
2
0
3
6
0
2
5
0
GS
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
3
0
0
0
0
0
5
559
STATISTICS
Stoke City
Adam, Charles Graham
Arnautovic, Marko
Assaidi, Oussama
Bardsley, Phillip Anthony
Begovic, Asmir
Butland, Jack
Cameron, Geoff Scott
Crouch, Peter James
Diouf, Mame Biram
Do Nascimento Teixeira, Dionatan
Huth, Robert
Ireland, Stephen James
Krkic Perez, Bojan
Moses, Victor
PLAYER APPEARANCES AND GOALS
STATISTICS
SEASON 2014/15
Sub Sub
P
NP
GS
Sub Sub
P
NP
Swansea City
Amat Maas, Jordi
13
Hanley, Raheem Shaquille Rushan
GS
0
Barrow, Moduo
10
Ki, Sung Yueng
30
Bartley, Kyle
17
Montero Vite, Jefferson Antonio
15
15
Bony, Wilfried Guemiand
16
Naughton, Kyle
10
Britton, Leon James
11
Oliveira, Nelson Miguel Castro
Carroll, Thomas James
10
Richards, Ashley Darel Jazz
Cork, Jack Frank Porteous
15
Routledge, Wayne Neville Anthony
27
Cornell, David Joseph
Sheehan, Joshua Luke
Dyer, Nathan Antone Jonah
23
Shelvey, Jonjo
28
Emnes, Marvin
14
11
Shephard, Liam
Fabianski, Lukasz
37
Sigurdsson, Gylfi Thor
32
Fernandez, Federico
27
Taylor, Neil John
34
Fulton, Jay
10
Tiendalli, Dwight Marciano
Gomis, Bafetimbi
18
13
Tremmel, Gerhard
36
Gorre, Kenji Joel
Williams, Ashley Errol
37
Grimes, Matthew Jacob
Zaragoza, Angel Rangel
22
Tottenham Hotspur
Adebayor, Emmanuel
Ball, Dominic
P
9
0
Bentaleb, Nabil
Bezerra Maciel Junior, Jose Paulo
Capoue, Etienne
Ceballos, Cristian
Chadli, Nacer
25
3
11
0
28
1
12
1
0
7
Chiriches, Vlad Iulian
Davies, Benjamin Thomas
Dawson, Michael Richard
Dembele, Moussa
Dier, Eric Jeremy Edgar
Eriksen, Christian
Fazio, Federico
Friedel, Bradley Howard
Holtby, Lewis Harry
Kaboul, Younes
8
9
0
10
25
37
20
0
0
11
2
5
0
16
3
1
0
0
1
0
560
Sub Sub
P
NP
4
2
0
1
GS
2
0
P
Kane, Harry
Lamela, Erik
1
6
1
1
1
0
0
0
0
11
Lennon, Aaron
Lloris, Hugo
Mason, Ryan Glen
Naughton, Kyle
Onomah, Joshua
10
13
1
5
4
0
8
6
2
4
0
0
0
1
2
10
0
0
0
0
Rose, Daniel Lee
Soldado Rillo, Roberto
Stambouli, Benjamin
Townsend, Andros
Vertonghen, Jan
Vorm, Michel
Walker, Kyle Andrew
Winks, Harry
Yedlin, DeAndre
Sub Sub
P
NP
GS
PLAYER APPEARANCES AND GOALS
SEASON 2014/15
Sub Sub
P
NP
Anichebe, Victor Chinedu
11
10
McManaman, Callum Henry
Baird, Christopher
10
15
Morrison, James Clark
29
Berahino, Saido
32
14
Mulumbu, Youssouf
10
10
Blanco, Sebastian Marcelo
Myhill, Glyn Oliver
10
24
Brunt, Christopher
33
Nabi, Adil
Daniels, Luke Matthew
Olsson, Jonas
Davidson, Jason
ONeil, Liam Christian James
Dawson, Craig
29
Palmer, Alexander
Dorrans, Graham
19
Pocognoli, Sebastien
15
Fletcher, Darren Barr
15
Roberts, Tyler
Foster, Ben
28
Rose, Jack Joseph
10
11
Samaras, Georgios
Gardner, Craig
30
Sessegnon, Stephane
20
Ideye, Aide Brown
13
11
Varela, Silvestre
Lescott, Joleon Patrick
34
Wisdom, Andre
22
11
McAuley, Gareth Gerald
24
13
Yacob, Claudio
16
West Ham United
Amalfitano, Morgan
Burke, Reece
Carroll, Andrew Thomas
Cole, Carlton
Collins, James Michael
Cresswell, Aaron
Cullen, Joshua Jon
De Carvalho, Anderson Luis
Demel, Guy Roland
Diame, Mohamed
Downing, Stewart
Jaaskelainen, Juusi Albert
Jarvis, Matthew Thomas
Jenkinson, Carl Daniel
Kouyate, Cheikhou
Lee, Elliot Robert
P
14
4
12
8
21
38
0
0
3
0
37
0
4
29
30
0
Lletget, Sebastian
Morrison, Ravel Ryan
Noble, Mark James
Nolan, Kevin Anthony Jance
OBrien, Joseph Martin
Onariase, Osaore Emmanuel
Oxford, Reece
Poyet Gonzalez, Diego
Reid, Winston Wiremu
Sakho, Diafra
San Miguel Del Castillo, Adrian
Song Bilong, Alexandre Dimitri
Tomkins, James Oliver Charles
Valencia Lastra, Enner Remberto
Vaz Te, Ricardo Jorge
Zarate, Mauro Matias
P
0
0
27
19
6
0
0
1
29
20
38
25
20
25
3
5
Gamboa, Christian
GS
3
0
5
2
0
2
0
0
0
0
6
0
0
0
4
0
Sub Sub
P
NP
0
1
1
1
1
2
10
3
3
25
0
1
0
5
2
9
1
0
3
1
0
0
3
2
2
1
7
1
1
7
2
7
GS
0
GS
0
0
2
1
0
0
0
0
1
10
0
0
1
4
0
2
561
STATISTICS
Sub Sub
P
NP
10
8
1
5
2
0
15
12
6
5
0
0
0
2
8
4
3
11
3
0
0
0
1
37
7
15
3
0
1
0
1
4
GS
Sub Sub
P
NP
West Bromwich Albion
STATISTICS
PREMIER LEAGUE TABLES
Premier League 1992/93
1 Manchester United
2 Aston Villa
3 Norwich City
4 Blackburn Rovers
5 Queens Park Rangers
6 Liverpool
7 Sheffield Wednesday
8 Tottenham Hotspur
9 Manchester City
10 Arsenal
11 Chelsea
12 Wimbledon
13 Everton
14 Sheffield United
15 Coventry City
16 Ipswich Town
17 Leeds United
18 Southampton
19 Oldham Athletic
20 Crystal Palace
21 Middlesbrough
22 Nottingham Forest
P
42
42
42
42
42
42
42
42
42
42
42
42
42
42
42
42
42
42
42
42
42
42
W
24
21
21
20
17
16
15
16
15
15
14
14
15
14
13
12
12
13
13
11
11
10
D
12
11
9
11
12
11
14
11
12
11
14
12
8
10
13
16
15
11
10
16
11
10
L
6
10
12
11
13
15
13
15
15
16
14
16
19
18
16
14
15
18
19
15
20
22
GF
67
57
61
68
63
62
55
60
56
40
51
56
53
54
52
50
57
54
63
48
54
41
GA
31
40
65
46
55
55
51
66
51
38
54
55
55
53
57
55
62
61
74
61
75
62
GD
+36
+17
-4
+22
+8
+7
+4
-6
+5
+2
-3
+1
-2
+1
-5
-5
-5
-7
-11
-13
-21
-21
PTS
84
74
72
71
63
59
59
59
57
56
56
54
53
52
52
52
51
50
49
49
44
40
Premier League 1993/94
1 Manchester United
2 Blackburn Rovers
3 Newcastle United
4 Arsenal
5 Leeds United
6 Wimbledon
7 Sheffield Wednesday
8 Liverpool
9 Queens Park Rangers
10 Aston Villa
11 Coventry City
12 Norwich City
13 West Ham United
14 Chelsea
15 Tottenham Hotspur
16 Manchester City
17 Everton
18 Southampton
19 Ipswich Town
20 Sheffield United
21 Oldham Athletic
22 Swindon Town
P
42
42
42
42
42
42
42
42
42
42
42
42
42
42
42
42
42
42
42
42
42
42
W
27
25
23
18
18
18
16
17
16
15
14
12
13
13
11
9
12
12
9
8
9
5
D
11
9
8
17
16
11
16
9
12
12
14
17
13
12
12
18
8
7
16
18
13
15
L
4
8
11
7
8
13
10
16
14
15
14
13
16
17
19
15
22
23
17
16
20
22
GF
80
63
82
53
65
56
76
59
62
46
43
65
47
49
54
38
42
49
35
42
42
47
GA
38
36
41
28
39
53
54
55
61
50
45
61
58
53
59
49
63
66
58
60
68
100
GD
+42
+27
+41
+25
+26
+3
+22
+4
+1
-4
-2
+4
-11
-4
-5
-11
-21
-17
-23
-18
-26
-53
PTS
92
84
77
71
70
65
64
60
60
57
56
53
52
51
45
45
44
43
43
42
40
30
562
PREMIER LEAGUE TABLES
P
42
42
42
42
42
42
42
42
42
42
42
42
42
42
42
42
42
42
42
42
42
42
W
27
26
22
21
20
20
16
17
15
12
13
13
13
13
11
12
12
11
11
10
6
7
D
8
10
11
11
13
12
14
9
11
18
15
12
12
11
17
14
13
15
12
13
11
6
L
7
6
9
10
9
10
12
16
16
12
14
17
17
18
14
16
17
16
19
19
25
29
GF
80
77
72
65
59
67
66
61
48
61
50
52
49
44
44
44
53
51
34
37
45
36
GA
39
28
43
37
38
47
58
59
65
63
55
49
57
48
51
62
64
56
49
54
80
93
GD
+41
+49
+29
+28
+21
+20
+8
+2
-17
-2
-5
+3
-8
-4
-7
-18
-11
-5
-15
-17
-35
-57
PTS
89
88
77
74
73
72
62
60
56
54
54
51
51
50
50
50
49
48
45
43
29
27
Premier League 1995/96
1 Manchester United
2 Newcastle United
3 Liverpool
4 Aston Villa
5 Arsenal
6 Everton
7 Blackburn Rovers
8 Tottenham Hotspur
9 Nottingham Forest
10 West Ham United
11 Chelsea
12 Middlesbrough
13 Leeds United
14 Wimbledon
15 Sheffield Wednesday
16 Coventry City
17 Southampton
18 Manchester City
19 Queens Park Rangers
20 Bolton Wanderers
P
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
W
25
24
20
18
17
17
18
16
15
14
12
11
12
10
10
8
9
9
9
8
D
7
6
11
9
12
10
7
13
13
9
14
10
7
11
10
14
11
11
6
5
L
6
8
7
11
9
11
13
9
10
15
12
17
19
17
18
16
18
18
23
25
GF
73
66
70
52
49
64
61
50
50
43
46
35
40
55
48
42
34
33
38
39
GA
35
37
34
35
32
44
47
38
54
52
44
50
57
70
61
60
52
58
57
71
GD
+38
+29
+36
+17
+17
+20
+14
+12
-4
-9
+2
-15
-17
-15
-13
-18
-18
-25
-19
-32
PTS
82
78
71
63
63
61
61
61
58
51
50
43
43
41
40
38
38
38
33
29
563
STATISTICS
Premier League 1994/95
1 Blackburn Rovers
2 Manchester United
3 Nottingham Forest
4 Liverpool
5 Leeds United
6 Newcastle United
7 Tottenham Hotspur
8 Queens Park Rangers
9 Wimbledon
10 Southampton
11 Chelsea
12 Arsenal
13 Sheffield Wednesday
14 West Ham United
15 Everton
16 Coventry City
17 Manchester City
18 Aston Villa
19 Crystal Palace
20 Norwich City
21 Leicester City
22 Ipswich Town
PREMIER LEAGUE TABLES
Premier League 1996/97
1 Manchester United
2 Newcastle United
3 Arsenal
4 Liverpool
5 Aston Villa
6 Chelsea
7 Sheffield Wednesday
8 Wimbledon
9 Leicester City
10 Tottenham Hotspur
11 Leeds United
12 Derby County
13 Blackburn Rovers
14 West Ham United
15 Everton
16 Southampton
17 Coventry City
18 Sunderland
19 Middlesbrough
20 Nottingham Forest
STATISTICS
P
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
W
21
19
19
19
17
16
14
15
12
13
11
11
9
10
10
10
9
10
10
6
D
12
11
11
11
10
11
15
11
11
7
13
13
15
12
12
11
14
10
12
16
L
5
8
8
8
11
11
9
12
15
18
14
14
14
16
16
17
15
18
16
16
GF
76
73
62
62
47
58
50
49
46
44
28
45
42
39
44
50
38
35
51
31
GA
44
40
32
37
34
55
51
46
54
51
38
58
43
48
57
56
54
53
60
59
GD
+32
+33
+30
+25
+13
+3
-1
+3
-8
-7
-10
-13
-1
-9
-13
-6
-16
-18
-9
-28
PTS
75
68
68
68
61
59
57
56
47
46
46
46
42
42
42
41
41
40
39*
34
P
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
W
23
23
18
20
17
16
17
16
16
13
12
14
11
11
10
12
9
9
10
8
D
9
8
11
3
8
10
6
8
7
14
16
6
11
11
14
8
13
13
5
9
L
6
7
9
15
13
12
15
14
15
11
10
18
16
16
14
18
16
16
23
21
GF
68
73
68
71
57
57
49
56
52
51
46
50
35
44
34
52
41
41
37
37
GA
33
26
42
43
46
52
48
57
49
41
44
55
44
56
46
67
56
61
82
71
GD
+35
+47
+26
+28
+11
+5
+1
-1
+3
+10
+2
-5
-9
-12
-12
-15
-15
-20
-45
-34
PTS
78
77
65
63
59
58
57
56
55
53
52
48
44
44
44
44
40
40
35
33
Middlesbrough deducted 3 points
Premier League 1997/98
1 Arsenal
2 Manchester United
3 Liverpool
4 Chelsea
5 Leeds United
6 Blackburn Rovers
7 Aston Villa
8 West Ham United
9 Derby County
10 Leicester City
11 Coventry City
12 Southampton
13 Newcastle United
14 Tottenham Hotspur
15 Wimbledon
16 Sheffield Wednesday
17 Everton
18 Bolton Wanderers
19 Barnsley
20 Crystal Palace
564
PREMIER LEAGUE TABLES
P
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
W
22
22
20
18
16
15
15
13
12
12
11
13
11
11
11
10
11
8
7
7
D
13
12
15
13
9
10
9
13
15
13
14
7
13
10
9
12
8
12
14
9
L
3
4
3
7
13
13
14
12
11
13
13
18
14
17
18
16
19
18
17
22
GF
80
59
57
62
46
51
68
40
48
40
47
41
48
42
39
40
37
41
38
35
GA
37
17
30
34
53
46
49
45
54
46
50
42
54
47
51
63
64
56
52
69
GD
+43
+42
+27
+28
-7
+5
+19
-5
-6
-6
-3
-1
-6
-5
-12
-23
-27
-15
-14
-34
PTS
79
78
75
67
57
55
54
52
51
49
47
46
46
43
42
42
41
36
35
30
Premier League 1999/00
1 Manchester United
2 Arsenal
3 Leeds United
4 Liverpool
5 Chelsea
6 Aston Villa
7 Sunderland
8 Leicester City
9 West Ham United
10 Tottenham Hotspur
11 Newcastle United
12 Middlesbrough
13 Everton
14 Coventry City
15 Southampton
16 Derby County
17 Bradford City
18 Wimbledon
19 Sheffield Wednesday
20 Watford
P
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
W
28
22
21
19
18
15
16
16
15
15
14
14
12
12
12
9
9
7
8
6
D
7
7
6
10
11
13
10
7
10
8
10
10
14
8
8
11
9
12
7
6
L
3
9
11
9
9
10
12
15
13
15
14
14
12
18
18
18
20
19
23
26
GF
97
73
58
51
53
46
57
55
52
57
63
46
59
47
45
44
38
46
38
35
GA
45
43
43
30
34
35
56
55
53
49
54
52
49
54
62
57
68
74
70
77
GD
+52
+30
+15
+21
+19
+11
+1
0
-1
+8
+9
-6
+10
-7
-17
-13
-30
-28
-32
-42
PTS
91
73
69
67
65
58
58
55
55
53
52
52
50
44
44
38
36
33
31
24
565
STATISTICS
Premier League 1998/99
1 Manchester United
2 Arsenal
3 Chelsea
4 Leeds United
5 West Ham United
6 Aston Villa
7 Liverpool
8 Derby County
9 Middlesbrough
10 Leicester City
11 Tottenham Hotspur
12 Sheffield Wednesday
13 Newcastle United
14 Everton
15 Coventry City
16 Wimbledon
17 Southampton
18 Charlton Athletic
19 Blackburn Rovers
20 Nottingham Forest
STATISTICS
PREMIER LEAGUE TABLES
Premier League 2000/01
1 Manchester United
2 Arsenal
3 Liverpool
4 Leeds United
5 Ipswich Town
6 Chelsea
7 Sunderland
8 Aston Villa
9 Charlton Athletic
10 Southampton
11 Newcastle United
12 Tottenham Hotspur
13 Leicester City
14 Middlesbrough
15 West Ham United
16 Everton
17 Derby County
18 Manchester City
19 Coventry City
20 Bradford City
P
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
W
24
20
20
20
20
17
15
13
14
14
14
13
14
9
10
11
10
8
8
5
D
8
10
9
8
6
10
12
15
10
10
9
10
6
15
12
9
12
10
10
11
L
6
8
9
10
12
11
11
10
14
14
15
15
18
14
16
18
16
20
20
22
GF
79
63
71
64
57
68
46
46
50
40
44
47
39
44
45
45
37
41
36
30
GA
31
38
39
43
42
45
41
43
57
48
50
54
51
44
50
59
59
65
63
70
GD
+48
+25
+32
+21
+15
+23
+5
+3
-7
-8
-6
-7
-12
0
-5
-14
-22
-24
-27
-40
PTS
80
70
69
68
66
61
57
54
52
52
51
49
48
42
42
42
42
34
34
26
Premier League 2001/02
1 Arsenal
2 Liverpool
3 Manchester United
4 Newcastle United
5 Leeds United
6 Chelsea
7 West Ham United
8 Aston Villa
9 Tottenham Hotspur
10 Blackburn Rovers
11 Southampton
12 Middlesbrough
13 Fulham
14 Charlton Athletic
15 Everton
16 Bolton Wanderers
17 Sunderland
18 Ipswich Town
19 Derby County
20 Leicester City
P
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
W
26
24
24
21
18
17
15
12
14
12
12
12
10
10
11
9
10
9
8
5
D
9
8
5
8
12
13
8
14
8
10
9
9
14
14
10
13
10
9
6
13
L
3
6
9
9
8
8
15
12
16
16
17
17
14
14
17
16
18
20
24
20
GF
79
67
87
74
53
66
48
46
49
55
46
35
36
38
45
44
29
41
33
30
GA
36
30
45
52
37
38
57
47
53
51
54
47
44
49
57
62
51
64
63
64
GD
+43
+37
+42
+22
+16
+28
-9
-1
-4
+4
-8
-12
-8
-11
-12
-18
-22
-23
-30
-34
PTS
87
80
77
71
66
64
53
50
50
46
45
45
44
44
43
40
40
36
30
28
566
PREMIER LEAGUE TABLES
P
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
W
25
23
21
19
18
16
17
13
15
14
13
14
13
13
14
12
10
10
6
4
D
8
9
6
10
10
12
8
13
6
8
10
7
9
9
5
9
14
12
8
7
L
5
6
11
9
10
10
13
12
17
16
15
17
16
16
19
17
14
16
24
27
GF
74
85
63
68
61
52
48
43
47
51
48
45
41
41
58
42
41
42
29
21
GA
34
42
48
38
41
43
49
46
54
62
44
56
49
50
57
47
51
59
65
65
GD
+40
+43
+15
+30
+20
+9
-1
-3
-7
-11
+4
-11
-8
-9
1
-5
-10
-17
-36
-44
PTS
83
78
69
67
64
60
59
52
51
50
49
49
48
48
47
45
44
42
26
19
Premier League 2003/04
1 Arsenal
2 Chelsea
3 Manchester United
4 Liverpool
5 Newcastle United
6 Aston Villa
7 Charlton Athletic
8 Bolton Wanderers
9 Fulham
10 Birmingham City
11 Middlesbrough
12 Southampton
13 Portsmouth
14 Tottenham Hotspur
15 Blackburn Rovers
16 Manchester City
17 Everton
18 Leicester City
19 Leeds United
20 Wolverhampton Wanderers
P
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
W
26
24
23
16
13
15
14
14
14
12
13
12
12
13
12
9
9
6
8
7
D
12
7
6
12
17
11
11
11
10
14
9
11
9
6
8
14
12
15
9
12
L
0
7
9
10
8
12
13
13
14
12
16
15
17
19
18
15
17
17
21
19
GF
73
67
64
55
52
48
51
48
52
43
44
44
47
47
51
55
45
48
40
38
GA
26
30
35
37
40
44
51
56
46
48
52
45
54
57
59
54
57
65
79
77
GD
+47
+37
+29
+18
+12
+4
0
-8
+6
-5
-8
-1
-7
-10
-8
+1
-12
-17
-39
-39
PTS
90
79
75
60
56
56
53
53
52
50
48
47
45
45
44
41
39
33
33
33
567
STATISTICS
Premier League 2002/03
1 Manchester United
2 Arsenal
3 Newcastle United
4 Chelsea
5 Liverpool
6 Blackburn Rovers
7 Everton
8 Southampton
9 Manchester City
10 Tottenham Hotspur
11 Middlesbrough
12 Charlton Athletic
13 Birmingham City
14 Fulham
15 Leeds United
16 Aston Villa
17 Bolton Wanderers
18 West Ham United
19 West Bromwich Albion
20 Sunderland
STATISTICS
PREMIER LEAGUE TABLES
Premier League 2004/05
1 Chelsea
2 Arsenal
3 Manchester United
4 Everton
5 Liverpool
6 Bolton Wanderers
7 Middlesbrough
8 Manchester City
9 Tottenham Hotspur
10 Aston Villa
11 Charlton Athletic
12 Birmingham City
13 Fulham
14 Newcastle United
15 Blackburn Rovers
16 Portsmouth
17 West Bromwich Albion
18 Crystal Palace
19 Norwich City
20 Southampton
P
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
W
29
25
22
18
17
16
14
13
14
12
12
11
12
10
9
10
6
7
7
6
D
8
8
11
7
7
10
13
13
10
11
10
12
8
14
15
9
16
12
12
14
L
1
5
5
13
14
12
11
12
14
15
16
15
18
14
14
19
16
19
19
18
GF
72
87
58
45
52
49
53
47
47
45
42
40
52
47
32
43
36
41
42
45
GA
15
36
26
46
41
44
46
39
41
52
58
46
60
57
43
59
61
62
77
66
GD
+57
+51
+32
-1
+11
+5
+7
+8
+6
-7
-16
-6
-8
-10
-11
-16
-25
-21
-35
-21
PTS
95
83
77
61
58
58
55
52
52
47
46
45
44
44
42
39
34
33
33
32
Premier League 2005/06
1 Chelsea
2 Manchester United
3 Liverpool
4 Arsenal
5 Tottenham Hotspur
6 Blackburn Rovers
7 Newcastle United
8 Bolton Wanderers
9 West Ham United
10 Wigan Athletic
11 Everton
12 Fulham
13 Charlton Athletic
14 Middlesbrough
15 Manchester City
16 Aston Villa
17 Portsmouth
18 Birmingham City
19 West Bromwich Albion
20 Sunderland
P
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
W
29
25
25
20
18
19
17
15
16
15
14
14
13
12
13
10
10
8
7
3
D
4
8
7
7
11
6
7
11
7
6
8
6
8
9
4
12
8
10
9
6
L
5
5
6
11
9
13
14
12
15
17
16
18
17
17
21
16
20
20
22
29
GF
72
72
57
68
53
51
47
49
52
45
34
48
41
48
43
42
37
28
31
26
GA
22
34
25
31
38
42
42
41
55
52
49
58
55
58
48
55
62
50
58
69
GD
+50
+38
+32
+37
+15
+9
+5
+8
-3
-7
-15
-10
-14
-10
-5
-13
-25
-22
-27
-43
PTS
91
83
82
67
65
63
58
56
55
51
50
48
47
45
43
42
38
34
30
15
568
PREMIER LEAGUE TABLES
P
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
W
28
24
20
19
17
15
16
16
14
15
11
12
11
11
12
8
10
10
8
5
D
5
11
8
11
9
13
8
7
12
7
17
10
10
9
5
15
8
8
10
13
L
5
3
10
8
12
10
14
15
12
16
10
16
17
18
21
15
20
20
20
20
GF
83
64
57
63
57
52
47
52
45
52
43
44
38
29
35
38
37
32
34
29
GA
27
24
27
35
54
36
52
47
42
54
41
49
47
44
59
60
59
55
60
59
GD
+56
+40
+30
+28
+3
+16
-5
+5
+3
-2
+2
-5
-9
-15
-24
-22
-22
-23
-26
-30
PTS
89
83
68
68
60
58
56
55
54
52
50
46
43
42
41
39
38
38
34
28
Premier League 2007/08
1 Manchester United
2 Chelsea
3 Arsenal
4 Liverpool
5 Everton
6 Aston Villa
7 Blackburn Rovers
8 Portsmouth
9 Manchester City
10 West Ham United
11 Tottenham Hotspur
12 Newcastle United
13 Middlesbrough
14 Wigan Athletic
15 Sunderland
16 Bolton Wanderers
17 Fulham
18 Reading
19 Birmingham City
20 Derby County
P
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
W
27
25
24
21
19
16
15
16
15
13
11
11
10
10
11
9
8
10
8
1
D
6
10
11
13
8
12
13
9
10
10
13
10
12
10
6
10
12
6
11
8
L
5
3
3
4
11
10
10
13
13
15
14
17
16
18
21
19
18
22
19
29
GF
80
65
74
67
55
71
50
48
45
42
66
45
43
34
36
36
38
41
46
20
GA
22
26
31
28
33
51
48
40
53
50
61
65
53
51
59
54
60
66
62
89
GD
+58
+39
+43
+39
+22
+20
+2
+8
-8
-8
+5
-20
-10
-17
-23
-18
-22
-25
-16
-69
PTS
87
85
83
76
65
60
58
57
55
49
46
43
42
40
39
37
36
36
35
11
569
STATISTICS
Premier League 2006/07
1 Manchester United
2 Chelsea
3 Liverpool
4 Arsenal
5 Tottenham Hotspur
6 Everton
7 Bolton Wanderers
8 Reading
9 Portsmouth
10 Blackburn Rovers
11 Aston Villa
12 Middlesbrough
13 Newcastle United
14 Manchester City
15 West Ham United
16 Fulham
17 Wigan Athletic
18 Sheffield United
19 Charlton Athletic
20 Watford
STATISTICS
PREMIER LEAGUE TABLES
Premier League 2008/09
1 Manchester United
2 Liverpool
3 Chelsea
4 Arsenal
5 Everton
6 Aston Villa
7 Fulham
8 Tottenham Hotspur
9 West Ham United
10 Manchester City
11 Wigan Athletic
12 Stoke City
13 Bolton Wanderers
14 Portsmouth
15 Blackburn Rovers
16 Sunderland
17 Hull City
18 Newcastle United
19 Middlesbrough
20 West Bromwich Albion
P
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
W
28
25
25
20
17
17
14
14
14
15
12
12
11
10
10
9
8
7
7
8
D
6
11
8
12
12
11
11
9
9
5
9
9
8
11
11
9
11
13
11
8
L
4
2
5
6
9
10
13
15
15
18
17
17
19
17
17
20
19
18
20
22
GF
68
77
68
68
55
54
39
45
42
58
34
38
41
38
40
34
39
40
28
36
GA
24
27
24
37
37
48
34
45
45
50
45
55
53
57
60
54
64
59
57
67
GD
+44
+50
+44
+31
+18
+6
+5
0
-3
+8
-11
-17
-12
-19
-20
-20
-25
-19
-29
-31
PTS
90
86
83
72
63
62
53
51
51
50
45
45
41
41
41
36
35
34
32
32
Premier League 2009/10
1 Chelsea
2 Manchester United
3 Arsenal
4 Tottenham Hotspur
5 Manchester City
6 Aston Villa
7 Liverpool
8 Everton
9 Birmingham City
10 Blackburn Rovers
11 Stoke City
12 Fulham
13 Sunderland
14 Bolton Wanderers
15 Wolverhampton Wanderers
16 Wigan Athletic
17 West Ham United
18 Burnley
19 Hull City
20 Portsmouth
P
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
W
27
27
23
21
18
17
18
16
13
13
11
12
11
10
9
9
8
8
6
7
D
5
4
6
7
13
13
9
13
11
11
14
10
11
9
11
9
11
6
12
7
L
6
7
9
10
7
8
11
9
14
14
13
16
16
19
18
20
19
24
20
24
GF
103
86
83
67
73
52
61
60
38
41
34
39
48
42
32
37
47
42
34
34
GA
32
28
41
41
45
39
35
49
47
55
48
46
56
67
56
79
66
82
75
66
GD
+71
+58
+42
+26
+28
+13
+26
+11
-9
-14
-14
-7
-8
-25
-24
-42
-19
-40
-41
-32
PTS
86
85
75
70
67
64
63
61
50
50
47
46
44
39
38
36
35
30
30
19*
Portsmouth deducted 9 points
570
PREMIER LEAGUE TABLES
P
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
W
23
21
21
19
16
17
13
11
12
12
12
11
13
12
11
9
11
8
10
7
D
11
8
8
11
14
7
15
16
12
11
11
13
7
10
10
15
7
15
9
12
L
4
9
9
8
8
14
10
11
14
15
15
14
18
16
17
14
20
15
19
19
GF
78
69
60
72
55
59
51
49
48
45
56
56
46
52
46
40
46
37
55
43
GA
37
33
33
43
46
44
45
43
59
56
71
57
48
56
59
61
66
58
78
70
GD
+41
+36
+27
+29
+9
+15
+6
+6
-11
-11
-15
-1
-2
-4
-13
-21
-20
-21
-23
-27
PTS
80
71
71
68
62
58
54
49
48
47
47
46
46
46
43
42
40
39
39
33
Premier League 2011/12
1 Manchester City
2 Manchester United
3 Arsenal
4 Tottenham Hotspur
5 Newcastle United
6 Chelsea
7 Everton
8 Liverpool
9 Fulham
10 West Bromwich Albion
11 Swansea City
12 Norwich City
13 Sunderland
14 Stoke City
15 Wigan Athletic
16 Aston Villa
17 Queens Park Rangers
18 Bolton Wanderers
19 Blackburn Rovers
20 Wolverhampton Wanderers
P
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
W
18
15
12
13
11
12
10
6
10
6
8
7
7
7
5
4
7
4
6
3
D
1
2
4
3
5
3
3
9
5
3
7
6
7
8
7
7
5
4
1
3
L
0
2
3
3
3
4
6
4
4
10
4
6
5
4
7
8
7
11
12
13
GF
55
52
39
39
29
41
28
24
36
21
27
28
26
25
22
20
24
23
26
19
GA
12
19
17
17
17
24
15
16
26
22
18
30
17
20
27
25
25
39
33
43
GD
64
56
25
25
5
19
10
7
-3
-7
-7
-14
-1
-17
-20
-16
-23
-31
-30
-42
PTS
89
89
70
69
65
64
56
52
52
47
47
47
45
45
43
38
37
36
31
25
571
STATISTICS
Premier League 2010/11
1 Manchester United
2 Chelsea
3 Manchester City
4 Arsenal
5 Tottenham Hotspur
6 Liverpool
7 Everton
8 Fulham
9 Aston Villa
10 Sunderland
11 West Bromwich Albion
12 Newcastle United
13 Stoke City
14 Bolton Wanderers
15 Blackburn Rovers
16 Wigan Athletic
17 Wolverhampton Wanderers
18 Birmingham City
19 Blackpool
20 West Ham United
PREMIER LEAGUE TABLES
STATISTICS
Premier League 2012/13
GF
GA
GD
PTS
Manchester United
38
28
86
43
43
89
Manchester City
38
23
66
34
32
78
Chelsea
38
22
75
39
36
75
Arsenal
38
21
10
72
37
35
73
Tottenham Hotspur
38
21
66
46
20
72
Everton
38
16
15
55
40
15
63
Liverpool
38
16
13
71
43
28
61
West Bromwich Albion
38
14
17
53
57
-4
49
Swansea City
38
11
13
14
47
51
-4
46
10
West Ham United
38
12
10
16
45
53
-8
46
11
Norwich City
38
10
14
14
41
58
-17
44
12
Fulham
38
11
10
17
50
60
-10
43
13
Stoke City
38
15
14
34
45
-11
42
14
Southampton
38
14
15
49
60
-11
41
15
Aston Villa
38
10
11
17
47
69
-22
41
16
Newcastle United
38
11
19
45
68
-23
41
17
Sunderland
38
12
17
41
54
-13
39
18
Wigan Athletic
38
20
47
73
-26
36
19
Reading
38
10
22
43
73
-30
28
20 Queens Park Rangers
38
13
21
30
60
-30
25
Premier League 2013/14
GF
GA
GD
PTS
Manchester City
38
17
63
13
65
86
Liverpool
38
16
53
18
51
84
Chelsea
38
15
43
11
44
82
Arsenal
38
13
36
11
27
79
Everton
38
13
38
19
22
72
Tottenham Hotspur
38
11
30
23
69
64
Manchester United
38
29
21
21
Southampton
38
32
23
56
Stoke City
38
10
27
17
-7
50
49
10
Newcastle United
38
23
28
-16
11
Crystal Palace
38
18
23
-15
45
12
Swansea City
38
33
26
42
13
West Ham United
38
25
26
-11
40
14
Sunderland
38
11
21
27
-19
38
15
Aston Villa
38
10
22
29
-22
38
16
Hull City
38
20
21
-15
37
17
West Bromwich Albion
38
24
27
-16
36
33
18
Norwich City
38
17
18
-34
19
Fulham
38
11
24
38
-45
32
20 Cardiff City
38
20
35
-42
30
572
STATISTICS
573
Premier League
30 Gloucester Place
London W1U 8PL
premierleague.com
T +44 (0) 20 7864 9000
F +44 (0) 20 7864 9001
E [email protected]
The Football Association Premier League Limited
Registered Office: 30 Gloucester Place, London, W1U 8PL. No. 2719699 England
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