Maidstone United chief executive Bill Williams believes Stones need to win the Ryman League, Premier Division to push the case for 3G pitches.

United want to challenge for promotion but know they can’t go up unless the Conference change their rules on the use of artificial pitches.

Mr Williams said: “I believe the game needs 3G pitches. It’s not for me to say they should be brought in at Premier League level but definitely from League 2 downwards to keep the game alive.

“We have a FIFA two-star rating which means we could host a full international on our pitch. England could play Brazil here yet we can’t play a Conference game on it, which reeks of stupidity.

“The Conference have made it clear they are waiting for Football League guidance and the league will say they’re waiting for Premier League guidance.

“What it needs is for somebody like Maidstone to win the league with a 3G pitch, take it to the Conference and say where we are.

“The precedent for 3G pitches has been set at world and European level.

“There’s a restraint of trade here and it needs somebody big enough to take the cost on board of challenging it in the courts if necessary."

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