Youth football on Sheppey could be set for a major overhaul.

The Island’s biggest senior team, Sheppey United, have held discussions with the three youth clubs with a view to eventually joining forces.

New Road, Range Rovers and Sheerness East could all be amalgamated with United.

All clubs will continue unchanged for 2015-16 while discussions take place, with a view to progression for the 2016-17 season at the earliest.

It’s a long-term plan that the clubs involved hope will keep the best young players on the Island.

Rovers, East and Road representatives met with Sheppey chairman Matt Smith at Holm Park and issued a joint statement.

It said: “Whilst we are extremely excited following our meeting with Sheppey United FC, we are also fully aware of the work needed to make this happen.”

Mr Smith said: “The massive issue that every club was in agreement with was the need to provide young boys and girls with the highest standard of football from the earliest of ages via the Kent Youth League and beyond, actually based here on the Island."

“Whilst I am over the moon the first meeting went so well and was massively positive with all in attendance in agreement that an amalgamation with Sheppey United FC is the best way forward, I am also aware that the three junior clubs involved have their own history and achievements, which shall be respected at every juncture of our ongoing discussions."

Monthly meetings will now take place between the different parties building up to an eventual amalgamation.