Regionalised football again?

Alan Hardy has spoken out and suggested that the time is ripe to reconsider regionalisation for the lower reaches of the Football League. It would be a return to a system that existed before as the Third Division North and South. Finances are the main reason behind the suggestion as Athletic will have to find extra money for up to 14 overnight stays. With southern teams coming down from the Championship (Southampton, Charlton and Norwich) and southern teams being promoted (Brentford, Wycombe, Exeter and either Shrewsbury or Gillingham) it makes financial sense, particularly in today's climate, for the clubs as well as the travelling supporters

Hardy told the Oldham Chronicle, "It probably averages £3,000 for an overnight stay so you can see this will be a large item of expense next season. When you look at the composition of League One there is already a north-south split, with more southern-based teams. I would welcome a study into regionalising Leagues One and Two on economic grounds. When you look at the viability of clubs, a visit from Bury and Rochdale would bring more visiting supporters than Exeter and Yeovil. Clubs at our level need to bring in more revenue while at the same time look at ways to reduce expenses such as overnight stays."