‘Absolute disgrace’: FA’s plan to restructure Women’s National League criticised

• WSL academy teams would play in third tier

• Previous FA expansion plan was withdrawn last year

Plans to include four Women’s Super League academy sides in the third tier of pyramid from 2027 have been criticised as an idea based around “repackaged B teams” and has received a mixed reaction from club staff and supporters.

The changesto the Women’s National League, put forward by the Football Association, would also introduce a mid-season split similar to that used in Scotland, as well as a potential investment package of about £1m and enhancements to legal and medical support in the loan system. They have not yet been formally ratified, but consultations are continuing.