Rick Parry wary of plans for overseas Premier League fixture

Feb 8 2008 by Ian Doyle, Liverpool Daily Post

THE decision of the Premier League to investigate the possibility of an ‘international round’ of fixtures has met with mixed reaction at Merseyside’s top flight clubs.

Under the proposal, from the 2010-11 season in one weekend in January there would be an extra round with 10 matches played abroad in cities such as Hong Kong, New York, Los Angeles, Singapore, Sydney, Johannesburg, Dubai and Beijing.

A meeting of the 20 clubs on Thursday agreed in principle to the plan. The final decision whether to proceed with the plan will be made in January 2009.

The idea would be to cash in on existing interest in the Premier League around the world, and the extra money generated from TV would be split equally among the 20 clubs.

Everton chief executive Keith Wyness believes the idea is one worth looking into.

“Obviously this is a very interesting concept but one which is at a very early stage and clearly to us warrants further investigation,” he said.

“It’s imperative we always consider new options and this is certainly a new and interesting option.”

However, Liverpool counterpart Rick Parry said: “As a club, we would say the plans would need further examination. My personal view is that it

raises concerns over the integrity of the competition.

“You’re talking about the introduction of a new dimension and new rules regarding playing a team three times and the seedings of certain teams.”

The details of how the system would work have yet to be finalised but it would mean each club playing 39 games.

Premier League chief executive Richard Scudamore said: “The ‘international round’ is an exciting and innovative proposal that needs careful consideration before being introduced.

“However, this concept recognises the truly global appeal of the Barclays Premier League whilst understanding that the traditions of the English game have always underpinned our success.

“We believe that an ‘international round’ of matches will enhance the strength of the Premier League; create extra interest in all clubs at home and abroad; and allow increased investment in talent development, facilities as well as our football development and community programmes.”