The English Football Association says it has received a formal request by Premier League team Hull City to change their name to Hull Tigers for the start of next season.

The idea is the brainchild of Hull’s Egyptian owner, Assem Allam, who wants to attract investors and boost the club’s marketing appeal abroad.

However, many Hull fans have reacted angrily to the move, unhappy that it removes 109 years of tradition, and have made their feelings known in protests and chants in recent matches.

Assam requires permission from the FA to complete a name change.

The governing body said on Thursday that “a consultation process will be undertaken with various stakeholders including supporter groups” as part of the evaluation of the request. No timescale was given by the FA.