WSL academy sides heading for third tier in England despite backlash

• Scheme gets FA Women’s National League approval

• FA to ratify move that has divided women’s game

A proposal to allow four academy sides from Women’s Super League clubs to join the third tier from 2027 has been approved by the FA Women’s National League board.

The league’s management met FAWNL representatives on Friday and were told of the board’s backing. The plans will now be put to the Football Association for further discussion before the changes can be rubber stamped.