A review of young player development in the professional game in England is to be conducted jointly by The Football Association, The Premier League and The Football League.

RFL (Rugby Football League) Executive Chairman Richard Lewis has been appointed as independent Chairman of the Review Group. He will work alongside representatives from each of the football bodies.

Richard Lewis said: ”I am pleased to be able to take on this project in addition to my work at the RFL. My role will be as an independent chair of the group using my background and experience in other sports."

The Review Group will examine the current frameworks and funding arrangements for young player development in clubs in the Premier League and Football League and make recommendations for changes and improvements.

The Group will consist of The FA's National Coach John Peacock, The Premier League's Youth Development Manager Huw Jennings and Football League Deputy Operations Director Michael Tattersall.

The Group will consult with a wide variety of stakeholders involved in young player development in the professional game. It will then report back to the Boards of The FA, Premier League and Football League.

FA Chief Executive Brian Barwick said: "We all recognise that the future development of our young players is fundamental to the success and welfare of our game. We are looking for this review to help us better understand what is needed in the future to maximise the return from our talented youngsters."

Premier League Chief Executive Richard Scudamore stated: "Our clubs commitment to, and record on, youth development has been excellent, with millions of pounds invested into Premier League Academies every season producing some world class talent.

"However, it is eight years since the Charter for Quality document set out current standards and practices and the time is right to review youth development structures in the professional game.

“This process will ensure that the progress already made is consolidated and any necessary improvements identified and implemented to benefit the professional game as a whole.”

Football League Chief Operating Officer Andy Williamson added: "Football League clubs are making a vital contribution to developing the stars of the future. More than 8,000 young players between the ages of eight and 18 are registered with League clubs and in the last four seasons alone more than 500 have turned professional.

“This review is an opportunity to help clubs build on the impressive work they already do in identifying, coaching and educating the professional footballers of tomorrow and will help strengthen youth development at all levels of the professional game.”

Richard Lewis has been Executive Chairman of the RFL since 2002. He is a former British international tennis player, coach and administrator.