Accrington Stanley boss John Coleman has called for a Second Division of the Conference as the Reds aim to join non-League's elite next season.

Stanley are currently in the UniBond Premier Division -- where only the Champions secure promotion to the Nationwide Conference.

The Ryman League and Dr Marten's League are also feeders into the Conference -- and with changes afoot in non-League football, Coleman thinks a union of the trio might provide the answer.

"I wouldn't mind seeing the three merge as a Second Division of the Conference," said the Stanley boss who's ready for a tilt at the UniBond Premier Division title.

"I wouldn't mind travelling down south. We are already travelling quite far afield to the likes of Gateshead and Blyth.

"In fact, we've spent so much time in the North East this season, I'm thinking of changing my name to Bobby Robson!

"I know the Ryman League is going in a couple of seasons so I think perhaps it would be a good idea to merge.

"I think teams who are financially stable and pretty well up the league should be invited to join the Second Division.

"I would be confident that would include Accrington Stanley."

He continued: "But saying this, it is with no disrespect to the UniBond League.

"I know some people might want to keep its identity and I respect that. It is a great league. "It has certainly provided me with plenty of excitement but perhaps a Second Division of the Conference is the next stage."

Coleman also welcomes the idea currently being muted of two-up two-down from the current Conference into the Nationwide Third Division.

"It's a great idea. Anything that is an advantage to non-League teams should be welcomed.

"It gives them something to aim for.

"Perhaps they should offer the second spot as a play-off place and that would keep quite a lot of clubs' seasons alive."

The Stanley chief is keen on the idea of play-offs -- the UniBond First Division is set to introduce them next season with the third, fourth and fifth sides playing against the third from bottom in the Premier Division.

"I do like the thought of play-offs. I would like to see the play-offs for second place in our league.

"I think they would be good for both the Conference and our division.

"It will give teams something to play for. If you do not get off to the best of starts, or have a hiccup mid season, there's still a good reason to keep going and still a chance of going up.

"When there is only one place, it is very difficult but that is our league.

"Emley had a great run, got a high number of points but just missed out to Stalybridge.

"Now they have got to try and keep that team together and aim to do it all again. "They might not get that close again and it will be harder next season."

And if Stanley reach the Conference, as they plan to do next season, they feel the Football League is within their grasp.

"I don't think there is too much difference between the Conference and the Football League -- it's just getting there.

"It has been historically proven, those that have got up have done well, the likes of Macclesfield, Cheltenham and Kidderminster.

"Teams are able to compete with League clubs provided they have the right finances in place to stay up.

"And I am ambitious and think we could do it."