The cloud of uncertainty hanging over the Wellington Phoenix could soon disappear if A-League clubs get their way.
After slamming Football Federation Australia (FFA) and its approach to A-League expansion earlier this week, the Australian Professional Football Clubs Association (APFCA) has revealed the clubs are all but ready to take over the competition.
In an interview with Newshub, APFCA chairman Greg Griffin incidated the club collective has already drawn up advanced plans, including budgets and an operating model for an independently run competition.
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"We know exactly how the independent A-League will look" Griffin said. "We've done a massive amount of work.
"We have a blueprint for an independent A-League, which will be released at the appropriate time."
Those comments will leave FFA bosses on high alert, with Griffin reiterating his view that an independent A-League was "inevitable".
The former Adelaide United chairman also indicated the move would effectively secure the long-term future of the Wellington Phoenix, whose licence is up for review in 2020. Under the conditions of a licence extention granted four years ago, the Phoenix must meet strict provisions put in place by the FFA.
"We don't think they have been given the respect they deserve" Griffin said of the Phoenix.
"We regard New Zealand as an important part of our market and we regard Wellington Phoenix, under the stewardship of Rob Morrison, as being a club that has much to offer to the A-League."
Griffin also offered a warning to the FFA over its plans for expansion, which he described as "inappropriate" and "bereft of legitimacy".
"The member clubs of APFCA are entirely supportive of the Wellington Phoenix and its administration.
"We think they are doing a very good job under difficult circumstances and we want it made known that we do not regard them as a trading tool in any negotiations the FFA may wish to undertake with other parties."
Newshub.
