Walsall fans against EFL Trophy changes

Almost three-quarters of Walsall fans have criticised their club's decision to vote in favour of changes to the Football League Trophy.

The Saddlers confirmed yesterday they have backed a new pilot format for the competition that will see Premier League sides enter under-21 teams next season.

Known as the Johnstone's Paint Trophy for the past 10 years, the tournament is close to the hearts of all Walsall fans.

The club reached the final last year – ending their 127-year wait to make it to Wembley Stadium.

But it has struggled to attract big attendances across the country, with clubs often hosting games at a loss.

It's also a competition without a sponsor, after Johnstone's Paint opted not to extend its partnership.

The new format has seen the Premier League add £1million in prize money to the competition as top-flight teams seek to give their youngsters more playing time.

Walsall released an eight-page statement revealing why they supported the changes due to the diminishing interest and they would look at it again after the pilot year.

But a poll on the Express & Star's website showed 73 per cent of fans believed their club should have voted against the proposals with many passionate about the issue.

Supporter Richard Gray said: "We need to stand up to the Premier League, not roll over which it looks like we have done.

"My concern is when the Premier League speak we are all forced to listen and come up with solutions to their problems.

"We have severe funding issues at grass roots and lower league level which can and should be dealt with by the Premier League billions but isn't.

"They are more concerned with paying players and agents horrendous salaries and fees for instant success on the field.

"That's the main problem for the younger players not getting the experience required.

"They not only want their cake and eat it but they want our cake too and it's just not right.

"All this talk of academies 10-15 years ago and bringing players through is absolute nonsense.

"They just hoover up all the talent they can find on the off chance one or two might make it.

"But, in the meantime, they have stopped lower league teams of developing and playing them and then possibly selling them on to then support themselves.

"If they need the players to get more playing time then they need to stop the academies and push these players towards local, lower level clubs and monitor them as they come through.

"Constant plundering of the lower leagues for their own benefit will just kill us in the long term."

Fan Darren Rhodes said: "Walsall FC have made superb strides over the past five years.

"The club have listened to supporters, improved the previously disastrous PR and fashioned a club mentality that has bought fans together.

"However, the decision to support the inclusion of Premier League reserve sides is, quite frankly, embarrassing. I am ashamed they have chosen money over morals.

"I call for every supporter who believes in maintaining a 'real' football ethos and the spirit of lower league football to boycott any game against such sides. I hope the club respond and listen to supporters."

Kevin Paddock added: "Our club has always prided itself on its stance against the Premier League but with this decision we sold our soul.

"Lets remember this competition gave us our first ever trip to Wembley, by voting in favour we are denying other clubs the same opportunity."

Meanwhile, West Bromwich Albion have registered an interest in playing in the competition and are waiting to hear back from the Football League.