FA Say The Kids Will Have To Wait!
By Nu Mad
Updated Saturday, 28th June 2008
The Football Association are to ban competitive league football for children under the age of eight in order to place emphasis on coaching and technique.
The governing body believe there is "an urgent need to improve skills and technique among young English players".
Director of football development Sir Trevor Brooking said: "At the moment we are not at the same level as other countries.
"In the youngest age groups, there's too much emphasis on winning leagues, often to satisfy parents and coaches. That's what we're looking to change.
"We need better, more skilful players coming through.
"Of course, we are not banning children from competing against each other in football.
"Every game played is competitive, but undoubtedly having league tables at this age is not helping their development."
