Koppel’s proposal was unanimously rejected last August by the Football League but they have agreed to abide by the commission’s verdict.

A statement read: ‘‘The Football League notes the decision of the independent commission to allow Wimbledon FC to relocate to Milton Keynes.

‘‘The League understands the disappointment of Wimbledon’s supporters at this decision, but the commission has stressed the club must work to maintain its identity as Wimbledon FC.

‘‘The commission reached its decision having considered evidence presented not only by Wimbledon FC, but also by The Football League, Football Association and supporters’ associations.

‘‘The League’s rejection of the proposal last August was based on the principle that clubs should play in the communities from which they take their name or have historical links with.

‘‘In this regard we are pleased to see the commission has backed those principles in its judgement and stressed it is the unique circumstances of Wimbledon FC that has led them to their decision.’’

Wimbledon claim they are in a unique position because they have been effectively homeless since they began sharing Selhurst Park with Crystal Palace in 1990.

The Football League refused to accept this argument and told the commission the move could lead to the franchising of football, a system which operates in American sports, where teams regularly leave one home for another in a different part of the country.

The statement added: ‘‘The League and FA presented evidence in support of the pyramid structure and against franchising, while the supporters stressed the links between a football club and its community.

‘‘We note the commission and the FA have stated strongly this will not open the door for franchising in this country and we applaud that sentiment.

‘‘The League will now take time to consider the commission’s detailed judgement and will make no further comment.’’

The independent commission who made the ruling admitted it had been a ‘‘complex and difficult decision to reach‘‘.

They added: ‘‘Feelings have run high on all sides. Whichever decision we came to many would find it hard to understand and would be disappointed.

‘‘We regret this. Nevertheless we determined to decide the case on its merits and on our assessment of all the evidence before us in its various forms.’’

Second Division Northampton were disappointed by the decision as the arrival of a First Division club in the area could have an impact on them.

A statement from the club read: ‘‘We at Northampton Town Football Club are surprised and disappointed at this decision.

‘‘We now watch the events with a close interest, not just from a personal point of view but for the game of football as we know it.’’