“The clubs will determine this. We have to ensure that it’s professionally run and players are treated professionally.

“The consequences of those clubs that don’t go to the next level [in terms of professionalism] the end result is you’ll likely be relegated.

Questions however still remain regarding revenue streams and broadcasting arrangements.

Last season's NPL Finals Series winners Campbelltown City

Krayem added there Championship may start with just promotion and no relegation in order to expand the league to the optimal number of clubs.

“But all clubs understand and want promotion and relegation to and from Australia’s third tier the NPL and the Championship.

“What that looks like, that’s another matter but there is no doubt clubs want to see that.”

How it would work remains a moot point.

Currently, the FFA run an NPL Finals Series in September featuring the winners of NPLs around the country.

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“There will be a mechanism [around promotion from NPL to the Championship],” promised Krayem.

“The finer details are to be worked out.

“We want to make sure we get this white paper right before we send out.

“I know it’s taken some time but based on all the feedback, we have to take that into account.

“We’d rather get it right now than later. There is a lot of processes to go through.

“So, patience is key,” added Krayem.

“And the start of the A-League 2021/22  season is still the date we’re on target for.”

Other expected elements of the new second division include:

  • A $150,000 license fee for each year for each club (though it’s unclear if that figure is capped for the duration of a license) rather than a lump sum upfront.
  • Operating costs estimated per second division club to be around $2.5m
  • Squad costs: around $1m (average $40,000). Marquee costs outside this
  • Number of teams: 12-14 initially