Will FIFA rule change hit the Valiants?
New FIFA rule changes could affect the way that Football League clubs conduct “emergency” loan transfers next season.
According to reports, FIFA plan to end the “emergency” loan system next season. “Emergency” loans allow clubs to bring in players on loan outside of the transfer window. The Football League introduced the emergency loan concept in 2003 in an attempt to offset the impact of the transfer window system, which had been introduced by FIFA.
This season, Vale have signed the likes of Stephane Zubar and Remie Streete outside of the regular transfer windows…
This season, Vale have signed the likes of Stephane Zubar and Remie Streete outside of the regular transfer windows. But if FIFA decide to change the rules then clubs are likely to be restricted to transfer business during the transfer windows only. In British football the transfer windows occur during the summer – usually closing on 31 August – and in January
Naturally, FIFA’s decision will concern League clubs, who will fear paying inflated prices during the window period and who rely on the “emergency” system because many of whom cannot afford to employ large squads.
The Football League continue to petition FIFA to keep the current system in place…
The Football League continue to petition FIFA to keep the current system in place. Football League executive John Harvey told the BBC that: “We are currently engaged in a constructive dialogue with FIFA about the ongoing use of short term player loans and are grateful for the support of the Football Association, Premier League, Football Conference and the Association of European Professional Football Leagues (EPFL).”
However, despite that appeal there is no guarantee that FIFA will change its mind.
One positive for the Valiants is that the club’s recent change in transfer policy – bringing in a number of young, talented players to develop – could mean that the FIFA changes are felt less keenly in Burslem. If changes are put in place next season, then the Valiants will at least have the option to promote from within if senior players are injured, suspended or suffer loss of form.