Kids will play youth football matches without a referee under a new, barmy shake-up.
The major change for the 2026/27 season is that under sevens will play three-a-side
The plans have already been slammed by parents.
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But it has now been revealed that the mini matches won’t have a ref either.
Instead they will just be a ‘pitch facilitator’ to keep boys and girls safe.
The games will also have no goalkeepers either.
The changes to youth football are being implemented by the FA’s England Football Future Fit.
There are questions for puzzled coaches, plus mums and dads on their website.
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One reads: “How will children learn the rules for 3v3 without a match official?”
The response says: “There should be a pitch facilitator for each of the pitches used on matchdays.
“Ensuring a safe playing environment and providing positive encouragement to all players.
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“Alongside this they will support players in their understanding of the 3v3 playing rules.
“Initially players will require greater levels of support from an adult.
“But over time they will be able to manage their games more independently.”
One parent said: “It seems complete madness.
“It sounds like the games will be a complete free for all.”
The overall changes were announced back in February, as reported on What’s The Jam.
Boys and girls currently play five vs five at under seven and eight.
They then go up to seven-a-side for under nine and 10, then nine-a-side for under 11 and 12.
Young footballers play 11 v 11 when they get to under 13.
The move has been planned to allow young players more time on the ball and extra game time.
But parents and youth coaches have slammed it saying it will put a strain on grassroots clubs run by volunteers.
Many struggle to get mums and dads willing to run sides and they will now need more.
Others said improving pitches for kids should be a priority.
Jordan Davies, of Macclesfield, said: “Improving grassroots facilities should be the priority
QPR Academy Head Scout Glenn Tuffin fumed: “Where do they get all the extra volunteers for more small sided games?
“Especially three v three at U7.”
Chris Stones, a Norwich United coach, added: “Three v three at U7’s is utter madness.
“I know this is for the 2026/27 season but I’m starting up U7’s for this sep with a squad of 10, for five v five, is still a lot.”
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