FA Chief Richard Scudamore and AFC boss Mohamed bin Hammam have revealed a new scheme to bring closer ties after the AFC backflipped on the plan for an overseas round of the EPL.

Under the new scheme, top EPL clubs would twin with their Asian Champions League counterparts.

The plan could see the UK's big six clubs formalising arrangements with local clubs like Adelaide United, Sydney FC, Melbourne Victory, Newcastle Jets and Central Coast Mariners.

“We’d be foolish not to take advantage of their generosity and their support,” FFA CEO Ben Buckley told Bloomberg News.

“If our teams, officials, administrators could learn something from Chelsea, Manchester United or Liverpool, I know they would jump at it.”

Bin Hammam welcomed the initiative and said it would help pave the way for a more professional set-up in Asia.

As well as coaching, the clubs will also advise local sides and associations on
refereeing, youth development, administration and marketing.

“We could not find a better partner than the Premier League to guide us through the future,” Bin Hammam said in Tokyo today.

“It is a historic moment. We are going to benefit out of the 39th game in Asia not in terms of the Premier League comes and plays and goes, but they are going to leave a heritage.”

The FA's Richard Scudamore added: “Our clubs are ambitious and recognize they have fan bases in these areas.

“In order to really become part of the sporting world over here we need to understand better what that world is and this cooperation will make it easier.

“Clearly it would appear there is an appetite for the involvement of our clubs at whatever level in Asia.

“If that results in competitive fixtures being played, that may well be the ultimate extension, but it does not necessarily mean that (will happen).”