The Premier League has decided to impose a new ruling on our clubs.
The board of the Premier League has acted upon a report based upon "the requirements of match delegates", comments from fans, and TV commentators (dear old Motty). Apparently these people can’t identify who the players are. SOS has asked for a copy of this report, this request was denied.
From the start of the 2005/2006 season, all Premier League clubs who play in stripes must display the names AND numbers of their players on a plain background. This covers all league matches.
This ruling has been adapted from current UEFA regulations for teams playing in the various European competitions. It will in time, almost certainly be adapted by the Nationwide league.
You, the fan, have a voice, something that is becoming increasingly forgotten in the corporate world of modern football.
We need the support of the fans of Newcastle United, Blackburn Rovers and of course, Southampton, the three clubs this ruling currently affects.
We also need the support Mackems, Baggies, Blades, Potters etc, any club in the First Division with a realistic chance of promotion to the Premier League. We need the support of all fans of all clubs who play in stripes, regardless of whatever league and country they play in.
Why Should We Care?
These plain panels look horrible. Partizan Belgrade’s strip for this year’s Champions League is one example. Cheltenham Town’s current league strip is another unattractive kit.
Your club should be able to design a kit and sell it to its fans without extra levels of bureaucracy being imposed. You buy the shirt, so why should someone else dictate what it should look like?
You, the fans do matter. Something too many people seem to forget.
What Does SOS Hope To Achieve?
We want the Premier League to remember the little guy who goes through the turnstile and look at other possible solutions to their problem rather than just take the easy option.
How Can We Help?
Log on to our website http://www.saveourstripes.org.uk and register. Please use a valid email address. We will occasionally send you a newsletter on our progress. That’s all you have to do. We’ll try and do the rest.