TWO TIER LEAGUE?

The idea of a two tier Premiership has been revived by Bolton chairman Phil Gartside. He proposes two divisions of 18 teams each, but controversially no promotion or relegation from the Football League, an arrangement that is usual in American sporting competitions. He argues that smaller leagues would solve the problem of the winter break and the England team. Given Bolton's situation, his views may not be entirely disinterested. However, he points out, 'It would even everything out and make it more competitive on that basis.' In the context of current criticism of the Premiership, it is a response that might appeal to the competiton's leadership. However, to make it acceptable there would have to be some promotion and relegation from the lower level to prevent the creation of a self-perpetuating elite (although some would say we have that already). However, it could be one or two clubs rather than three as at present.

SUPER SLAM SUNDAY IN ENGLISH PREMIERSHIP

....... It underlines the Star Power of the English League.

This weekend billions over the world tuned in to wacth the biggest matches in the premiership season. Whether by design or coincidence they star studded fixtures of Liverpool v Manchester and Arsenal v Chelsea on one day proved to be a TV audience bonanza for the business sharks of British football. It is estimated that about 1.6 billion people tuned in to watch boyh mayches on Sunday. This racked up about 30 million pounds in pay poer view revenue alone together with other premium ad placement worth millions. The premiership continues to grow both in stature and financail muscle as more money attracts better players and bigger stars.

PANIC IN THE PREMERSHIP

As Police swoop on Footballers and Mangers

Thursday the British police swooped on five addresses in the UK and arrested some very popular and respect members of the football community including Harry Redknapp, Peter Story and Amdy Faye all of who are associated in one way or the other with Portsmouth FC.

Coming on the heels of the infamous bungs investigations this must be a very worrying time for the football fraternity at very top in the world's most popular league.

The commercialisation of football certainly means that there will some elements in the game who will not play by the rules. The staggering amount of money in football is going to fuel some greedy people try and cut corners. It is definitely good that that the authorities are baring their teeth to show any potential bandit that they will not get away with any underhand dealings.

it is unfortunate that a respect Manger like Harry is involved. Harry is a colourful character who has earned respect from both his admirers and detractors. He has rescued clubs from relegation on several occasions as well as develop some very good talents into world class players.He is even considered as one of the favorites to succeed McLaren who was axed for his failure to qualify England to EURO 2008.