Leading organisations praise disciplinary meeting

The first meeting to establish a streamlined disciplinary procedure has been greeted as a step forward by English football's key organisations.

Representatives from the Football Association, Professional Footballers' Association and League Managers' Association met with other bodies yesterday in an attempt to improve the speed and clarity of procedures. Brendon Batson, the FA's project manager, said: "It was a very positive meeting and we have made good progress. All parties involved participated fully and we will reconvene next month to move forward again for the good of all levels and areas of the game."

Mick McGuire, the PFA deputy chief executive, added: "Overall it was a very fruitful day and I was able to air our concerns and put forward proposals which we feel hit the needs of our members in general."

The meeting was also praised by John Barnwell, with the LMA chairman saying: "The FA has shown a commitment to progressing things as soon as possible."

England selection issues, after the admission of Rio Ferdinand and Alan Smith from recent squads, were not discussed.