The Wales on Sunday is reporting today that both Swansea and Cardiff are ready to ditch the FAW and sign up with the English FA

The move will no doubt be welcomed with open arms by Swansea fans who have long since accused the FAW of bias towards their South Wales counterparts up the road - a point addressed by the paper which says "Cardiff have already seen unfair and unfounded accusations of bias thrown at them for recent incidents, such as season-ticket holder Keiron O’Connor sitting on the panel that overthrew a three-match ban for Darren Purse that cleared him to play in last year’s FA Cup final.

"Cardiff also seem to be taking blame for the delay in dealing with the recent coin-throwing case – although that is out of their hands. And although there is no doubt that both clubs are on a level-playing field with their English counterparts, a move across to Soho Square would provide greater transparency – especially should either club find themselves in the Premier League.

"Swansea have also had their private grievances with the FAW over past disciplinary procedures."

The paper also adds "It is understood Cardiff officials spoke to FA chief Lord Triesman earlier this year about the problematic position of being a Welsh club in the English system. But it is also believed Swansea officials also raised the issue in a discussion with Football League chairman, Lord Mawhinney."

After Cardiff reached last season's FA Cup Final, special dispensation was given should Cardiff win that they could go into Europe although this was never tested fully after their lost to Portsmouth at Wembley but their Chairman Peter Ridsdale said “What we need to do is spend this summer talking to the English FA about whether we should be fully affiliated to them.

“We’ve played in the English league system now for almost 100 years. Why shouldn't we get the same rewards as anybody else who wins one of their competitions?”

Nothing further is reported to have progressed after the initial meetings according to the paper.

SOURCE: http://www.walesonline.co.uk/footballnation/football-in-wales/2009/04/26/cardiff-and-swansea-in-fresh-talks-about-making-switch-to-english-fa-91466-23472495/

Photo: Action Images

Blackpool Polls