FIFPro, the world footballers' union, is to welcome female players as direct members in a bid to fight inequality in the sport.
At present individual players, male or female, are not permitted to join FIFPro but the organisation is set to overturn 50 years of tradition.
The initiative, announced at a press conference in Vancouver, aims to improve the rights of women in territories where they will not be accepted as members of the their own national union.
A FIFPro statement read: "Female players worldwide are now empowered to join FIFPro as direct members, the first time in the 50-year history of the World Footballers' Union that such a service has been made possible for any player, anywhere, male or female.
"This historic move breaks from tradition in order to help bridge the gap in countries where the possibility still does not exist for these players to join their local union.
"It will also assist national team players, who have no representation and require assistance in collectively bargaining with their national federations and protecting their rights in major international tournaments such as the FIFA World Cup."
An advisory board has also been set up involving six senior players who will adsvise FIFPro on improving working conditions for women in the game.
Plans are also in place to initiate a "player-driven World XI award for women".
Source: PA
