The initiative comes as part of a national remit to address the decline in players within the 16-23 age group. The FA has identified the step from youth to adult football as a possible obstacle in the player participation pathway.

Derbyshire FA and Derby City Football League have been working hard over the last few weeks to pull together the new U23 playing opportunity. Following the club consultation evening in January with all the current Derby City Football League U18 teams the feedback has been collated and discussed to ensure the new division meets the needs of the clubs/teams taking part.

The U23 Division will be administered by Derby City Football League and fixtures will be played on a Sunday morning at 10.30am. Each team can register unlimited over age players but can only name three over age players in the match day squad.

Football Development Officer, for Derbyshire County FA, Liam Rooney added “To ensure the smooth transition from youth to adult football the U23 division will help players to flourish and aide their development into open age football."

All teams will need to confirm their interest to the Derby City Football League Secretary, Tony Kemp, via email dcflsec@yahoo.co.uk or phone 01332 882587 by Monday 30th April.

For more information about the U23 division please contact Liam Rooney, Football Development Officer at Derbyshire County FA, liam.rooney@derbyshirefa.com or phone 01332 361422.