Ruling bodies may unite

Sports minister Michael McGimpsey set up 'task force'

The 'task force' set up to help revive football in Northern Ireland is to call for the game to be ruled by one governing body.

At present power is shared by the Irish Football Association and the Irish League.

But, if things go to plan, the League's responsibilities will be taken over by IFA chiefs at Windsor Avenue.

The soccer strategy advisory panel, set up by Northern Ireland sports minister Michael McGimpsey, has been examining ways of making the game more attractive for supporters.

I would welcome one body running football in Northern Ireland

  Linfield chairman Billy McCoubrey

Members have been lobbied by fans calling for better facilities and a more efficient way of organising the game.

Calls for one ruling body have been almost universal so it would have been a huge shock if the move had not been among the advisory panel's recommendations.

The panel's proposals are to be published in October.

In Thursday's Belfast Telegraph, the chairmen of the city's two biggest clubs voiced their support for the single ruling body.

"I would welcome one body running football in Northern Ireland," said Linfield chairman Billy McCoubrey.

"All the energy put into the game, be it at senior level or by those who help with youth football throughout the country should be channelled through one co-ordinated source."

Linfield's Billy McCoubrey backs the merger

And Glentoran chairman Stafford Reynolds was equally enthusiastic.

"Most people recognise one controlling body would be more effective, be it financially or from an administration point of view.

"There has been too much pushing and pulling involving the IFA and Irish League.

"It has not done the game any favours and change is needed."