THE root and branch review of youth football called for by Richie Barker is already well under way, and the heartland of the revolution is on the Bury manager’s doorstep.

The FA recently voted through historic proposals to completely overhaul the structure of youth football in this country and held up a local junior league as the blueprint for future success.

At the heart of the proposals, which were voted for by the FA Council at the end of May, is a plan to introduce nine-a-side matches for all under-11s and under-12s divisions in the country.

The inspiration came from the Bolton and Bury District Junior League, which has doubled in size since bringing in the smaller-sided games in those two age groups five years ago.

“Our initial aim was to boost participation as it is easier for teams to bridge the gap from seven-a-side matches in the youngest age groups,” said BBDJL chairman Warren Barlow.

“But having fewer players on the pitch also increased the number of touches each player had, and, as a result, the quality of football improved.”

After expanding to more than 500 teams, with 7,000 children playing every weekend, it was not long before the FA came calling.

Nick Levett, the FA’s national development manager for youth football, has been liaising with the BBDJL for the past two years, and last month revealed his proposals to re-shape youth football.

These include five-a-side games for u7s and u8s, nine-a-side for u11s and u12s, pitch sizes to match age groups, shorter seasons and a change in .

“This is about grass-roots football but also a 15 to 20-year programme for long-term player development, ultimately to help produce players to support the professional game and the England team,’’ said Levett. “It will mean more touches, more shots and more dribbles for young players and, therefore, improving the kids’ technique.”

Since revealing the plans, Levett has invited the BBDJL chairman to help build up support with the county FAs.