Emergency Loan Rule Changes Will Hit Bulls

FIFA are set to bring in new rules for emergency and youth loans which would mean that less players are likely to move to smaller clubs for short periods.

During the last six years 2,400 players have moved under the system, the world governing body has ruled that emergency loans breach rules governing transfer windows and will be banned from 2014.

Hereford United have often taken advantage of emergency loans. Recently goalkeeper David Cornell came in from Swansea after regular keeper Adam Bartlett sustained an injury.

And the Edgar Street club has also used the youth loan system where a player can return to his parent club to play in youth games as well as playing for the Bulls. Jake Jarvis, who came on-loan fron Birmingham, was brought in through this system.

However what will really hit the Bulls are loan agreements of between 28 days and 93 days which are also classed as emergency loans. Currently the Bulls have players such as Tom Barkhuizen and Steve Leslie on this kind of loans.

According to the Daily Telegraph, a letter to all 72 Football League Clubs from chief officer Andy Williamson explained what's happened.

"I have to advise you that, despite direct representations from both the Football Association and ourselves, Fifa have concluded that our domestic Emergency Loans (and Youth Loans) are contrary to the international statutes covering the Status and Transfer of Players.

"The effect of this ruling is that short-term loans will not be allowed during the 'closed’ periods between transfer windows, starting from season 2014/15.

"However, Fifa has indicated that they are prepared to review the current international rules and will undertake research to ascertain whether there is support around the world for any relaxation in the present transfer window restrictions.

"The League will continue to do everything within its power to retain as much flexibility for clubs as possible in this critical area."

In summary the new rules will not stop loans but they will have to be agreed before the end of August or during January transfer window. It could mean that a club like Hereford might have to carry a slightly larger squad from the start of the 2014/15 season.

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