FA Chair Greg Clarke accused Liverpool and ManU of "plotting a breakaway" from the EPL as top-flight clubs "prepared to declare war on their Project Big Picture (PBP) agenda" at a crucial meeting on Wednesday. Tuesday was another "extraordinary day in the plot to restructure" English soccer, as the FA sided with the EPL as focus "turned to what is set to be a stormy meeting of the 20 clubs." At least 13 clubs "are also understood to be in staunch opposition and will say as much" to ManU, Liverpool and "other backers from the elite." Wednesday's meeting will be the first time that clubs opposed to PBP can question representatives of Liverpool and ManU directly and "gauge levels of support for the plan from others" (London TELEGRAPH, 10/13).
West Ham is reportedly against the "radical plans" by Liverpool and ManU. It is understood the club was unaware of the proposals, even though it was named in them -- and was "shocked when they emerged into the public domain on Sunday." A spokesperson for U.K. PM Boris Johnson said on Monday that the plans would "undermine the trust in football's governance" (BBC, 10/12).
Meanwhile, Liverpool owner Fenway Sports Group could add to its sporting empire by purchasing a European soccer club. Talks with RedBall Acquisition Corp. have taken place, with a view to RedBall buying a 25% stake in FSG. FSG wants to "establish itself as the most powerful international sports conglomerate" and buying a European soccer club is "believed to be on the agenda" (LONDON TIMES, 10/13).
More on FSG's talks with RedBall is available in today's Daily.
