Brighton chairman explains quota opposition

Last updated : 20 December 2008 By Daniel Elwes

The Seagulls were the only club to vote against the proposal, which will require at least four players from each 16-man matchday squad to be registered domestically for a minimum of three seasons prior to their 21st birthday.

"The measure does not address the real issue, which is about quality English players in Football League clubs, not quantity," Knight told the club's official website.

"I'm sure every League club already meets the numbers criteria - and this just adds an unnecessary level of paperwork for all clubs.

"I understand the Football League's motives, but to achieve something meaningful we should be addressing the issue of Premier League clubs poaching all the top young talent from under the noses of their local league clubs across the country.

"Here at Brighton, right now, we have a talented youngster being wooed by  three top clubs. Quality young English players would be far better served learning their trade competing in the Football League, than being dragged into academies to play reserve or Carling Cup football."