Maidstone United are a step closer to winning their 3G pitch battle after reports the FA will allow the surface in all their competitions next season.

The decision leaves Premier League and Football League clubs open to playing on 3G in the FA Cup.

And United hope it will encourage the Conference to soften their stance on 3G.

Stones co-owner Oliver Ash told the club website: "The FA is showing admirable common-sense, leadership and vision in deciding to promote 3G, not only for training and community facilities but now also for stadium pitches in senior professional competition.

“No clearer, more positive message could have been given by the FA to the English football world as to the many benefits that 3G Football turf can bring to football clubs.

"We hope the FA’s example will now lead rapidly to a reconsideration by the Football Conference and the Football League of all the benefits 3G can bring, including play in most weather, enabling and encouraging local community groups to use the club facilities and bond with the club, increasing sustainable revenues, enabling academies to operate in the main stadium at off-peak times, etc.

“As a result of the FA’s intent and the hope that it will lead in due course to further change, more and more clubs will be able to switch to the 3G business model promoted by Maidstone United and 3G4US and reap the benefits.

"This is great news for them as it is for English football as a whole. We applaud The FA for their initiative.”