Definitely a massive step to far. Is this the beginning ofthe end?

At least if we fully merge we won't have to play 6 derbies every year

So the full merge begins!

Best mates.

A better option would have been to keep the academy's as they are and get into a joint venture with KR to create a stand alone feeder club in Champ 1. With the stipulation that they can never be promoted beyond that league. Then both clubs would have somewhere to blood youngsters and give game time to overage guys who aren't currently in the first team.

Far too sensible an idea. But, the problem with that is it doesn't satisfy the main reason for the academy merger, cost cutting.

You might be right, but the subtle difference is running 5 teams rather than 2.

What happens if FC get relegated and the academy get promoted? Not beyond the realms of possibility at present given how poor FC are the past seven years. Would we play each other?

An easy way to improve the transition from U19's to first team would be to increase the number of players on the substitute bench.

Maybe allow an extra 4 U19's, who would be allowed 1 interchange each.

It wouldn't weaken the strength of the first 17, and would certainly improve the chances for the backs, who hardy ever get picked as subs.

There are lots of potential pitfalls, the obvious one being U19's playing twice in a weekend, but should be worth a try?

Ah 1980's again nice carrot [see if it pacifies the fans].
Never happened then and will not now