The Association of Australian Football Clubs say they are now in a position to really push for a second division linked to the A-League.

The AAFC, which represents the National Premier League, have appointed eight national directors and adopted a new constitution.

And chairman Rabieh Krayem believes the restructure will help keep up the pressure for a suitable second tier.

“We want to work with FFA, the state federations, the A-League, PFA and, importantly, our member clubs and players to get the best possible model within the resources available,” he said, following the organisation’s inaugural AGM.

“The experienced football people on our board, such as Gary Marocchi and Dean Hennessey, know that having more young men and women playing football more often is a vital factor in improving our football standards and quality.

“The new board intends to continue in the same way, to ensure that we have a viable and sustainable second tier competition, which will grow to become a key plank in the Australian football landscape for years to come.”

Collectively, NPL clubs have more than 30,000 registered junior and senior players, including the semi-professional sector of the game.