Walsall manager Dean Smith has spoken to the press ahead of this weekend's Sky Bet League 1 clash with Barnsley, and has offered his thoughts on the recent Premier League 'B' proposals that will see the Johnstone's Paint Trophy restructured.
Speaking to the Express & Star, Smith said;"For me, what would supporters want to go and see? Would they want to see a Walsall v Bristol City final or a Manchester United B v Arsenal B final?
“I think that is the way the lower league clubs and smaller league clubs would see it. I would certainly feel that way. We talk about the development of players for the national team, I think we are part of that.
“Michael Cain and Jordy Hiwula getting games here is part and parcel of players going out on loan and experiencing games at men’s level in Leagues One and Two.
“They have certainly focused on the Premier League, but the Elite Player Performance Plan always did.
“I think maybe the Football League was held to ransom by the solidarity payments a bit.
“There is a lot of money being spent at the top of the pyramid and it needs to spread down a bit more for my liking.”