Putting aside all talk about BTeams that is on other threads, James Brent was right when he said the competition was dying and something needed to be done with it so any suggestions as to what?
Clearly killing it off is one option but, if it has a future, I believe the clubs need to decide what they want it for first.
If it is to give valuable game time to fringe players in a competitive environment, then they probably need to expand the group stages and accept low crowds until Wembley is near.
If they want crowds, how about starting with 8 groups of 6 playing five group games instead of the August league games and delay starting the league season until after the transfer window has closed in September.
That way, the early stages have an identity, no competition from league fixtures and can help clubs finalise preparation for the main event with some meaningful games.
The 16 (or even just 8) teams through to the knock-out phase are then close to Wembley to keep crowds up, get those games played as quickly as possible with the final no later than November to maintain impetus?
Clearly killing it off is one option but, if it has a future, I believe the clubs need to decide what they want it for first.
If it is to give valuable game time to fringe players in a competitive environment, then they probably need to expand the group stages and accept low crowds until Wembley is near.
If they want crowds, how about starting with 8 groups of 6 playing five group games instead of the August league games and delay starting the league season until after the transfer window has closed in September.
That way, the early stages have an identity, no competition from league fixtures and can help clubs finalise preparation for the main event with some meaningful games.
The 16 (or even just 8) teams through to the knock-out phase are then close to Wembley to keep crowds up, get those games played as quickly as possible with the final no later than November to maintain impetus?
