FIFA's New Rules: Problems could Arise

The latest rule drawn up by officials in Zurich was to ensure contract stability which barred clubs from signing players without being in a specific period of time which looks to be in August and January.

This could lead to some small clubs downfall and Peter Donald is concerned that the smaller clubs will lose players and not be able to get replacements.  Leaving them unable to cope.

Peter Donald has told of how he is totally against the idea and this could force clubs out of business as they are unable to sell players to help pay of there long standing debts.

Donald Said 'There is widespread concern that some clubs will find themselves in the situation of being unable to fulfil their fixtures.

'While we have introduced a rule limiting our clubs to 22 players over the age of 21 next season, the majority, because of the current economic climate, will elect to go with squads of 20-22 players.

'Without doubt there will be more problems if they are hit by a run of injuries and suspensions between August and January and cannot bring in replacements. For instance, I cannot see many having more than two goalkeepers yet frequently two keepers at the same club are injured at the same time.

'If these transfer windows had been in place over the last few seasons, I am not convinced that several clubs would have been able to survive their difficulties. They will place a severe and unfair financial burden on clubs who are already under pressure to make ends meet. Many clubs have to sell players when the opportunities comes along.

'What will happen when a bank insists that a player is transferred immediately to repay debts? This will prove highly unlikely because of the new system. Having to wait until the transfer window opens may prove to be too late to keep it afloat.

'There is also no guarantee that the buying club would be prepared to wait months to land their man and would instead change their mind. That is a serious concern.

'Over the years we have seen clubs go into liquidation and be forced to cut their squads to reduce costs. That flexibility will now be removed, which is another major worry.'

The football league in England have been hit hard when they were expecting money from the ITV digital deal and they are considering appealing to FIFA over the issue.

An EC commissioner has indicated that they may be successful as it should only be internationally and not domestic.

Peter Donald is hoping the English will be successful as an appeal from the SFA has been unsuccessful.

'The Football League is strongly opposed to transfer windows and has much more political clout than we have. Hopefully this will work to our advantage,' Donald explained.