The managing director of an East Lancashire football club has welcomed the Government's plan for a new independent regulator of the men’s professional game.

David Burgess, MD at League One Accrington Stanley, believes the plan will promote more sustainable ownership, with clubs from the National League up having to demonstrate sound financial business models before competing.

The reforms set out in the Government's white paper will also see more fan consultation on club decision making for matters like team names, stadia and badges.

Mr Burgess said: “It’ll give the smaller clubs and communities like Accrington Stanley a better opportunity of going into the future in a confident manner.

“The game itself right down the pyramid will remain sustainable, and clubs like Bury FC who went into administration in the end, should be a thing of the past.”

Stanley owner Andy Holt has previously been critical of the English Football League and its handling of clubs in financial difficulty.

Since 1992, 64 clubs have been put into administration, with the combined Premier League and Championship club debt reaching nearly £6 billion in 2021.

Sara Britcliffe MP, whose Hyndburn constituency is home to Stanley, said: “It’s felt like a lifetime for us to get to this stage where we’ve seen the white paper, but I’m really glad that we’ve got to this position.

“Today is a really great day for football and I look forward to the future and seeing this white paper implemented.”

The League One side currently sit in the relegation zone following a goalless draw away at Burton Albion on Saturday.

Along with the aforementioned proposals in the legislation, the Department for Culture, Media and Sport has also included a strengthened owners and directors test following its fan-led review of English football governance.

The regulator will additionally have new powers to stop clubs joining unpopular breakaways leagues like the proposed European Super League if the bill is voted through by MPs.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said: "Since its inception, English football has been bringing people together, providing a source of pride for communities and inspiration to millions of fans across the country.

"Yet despite the success of the sport both at home and abroad, we know there are real challenges which threaten the stability of clubs both big and small.

"These bold new plans will put fans back at the heart of football, protect the rich heritage and traditions of our much-loved clubs and safeguard the beautiful game for future generations."