THE English Schools Football Association has issued a statement in the wake of an ongoing row after the Knowsley and St Helens team was axed.

There has been widespread criticism after players and coaches of the team, which has played under the same banner this season, were told the English Schools FA does not recognise Knowsley and St Helens as an "affiliated county".

Team organisers say the proposed merger had been ratified by the Merseyside County Schools FA but representations to the English Schools FA were ignored.

The decision to axe the team has sparked criticism from figures including Rainhill councillor James Tasker and St Helens North MP Conor McGinn.

The leaders of St Helens and Knowsley Councils also penned a letter to the ESFA pleading with them for a change of heart.

In light of the recent events, the ESFA issued a public statement online on Thursday.

It read: "As a result of the recent publicity regarding the above named associations, the ESFA would like to place on record that the current negative social media surrounding these Associations is not originating from any recognised or affiliated member of the ESFA and as such, would like to distance themselves from posted comments.

"The Association does not disclose details of or comment on specific cases, however would like to go on record to state that all applications for associations to amalgamate are considered in line with Association rules, as are decisions on participation in National Competitions. In the interest and integrity of the ESFA’s National Competitions and of Schools’ Football as a whole, it is essential for the ESFA to uphold its own regulations."

It added: "As the National Governing Body, the ESFA has an obligation to its members to ensure the Association adheres to its own policies, procedures and regulations, to continue to enable schools’ football to take place in a fair and safe environment across the whole of England."