New football regulator threat sparks anger
WHITEHALL is threatening to introduce a mandatory regulator to oversee British football as part of a backlash against debt-laden clubs.
With several teams currently battling for survival, Whitehall is studying plans it hopes could help prevent clubs from going under.
But the idea has sparked fury among Premier League insiders who will fiercely resist the idea. One told City A.M.: “It is very easy for politicians to get involved in football for publicity but I don’t see either a mandate or a political will for this.”
Meanwhile, Portsmouth could be sold for just £1 as new owner Balram Chainrai desperately seeks to sever his ties with the relegation threatened club. He seized control just weeks ago but is ready to walk away if a buyer will reimburse £17m he is owed and take on debts totaling £60m.
Chief executive Peter Storrie is hoping to strike a deal with a buyer before a court decision on Wednesday on whether the club is insolvent. Portsmouth, who look certain to lose their Premiership status, are asking for an advanced £11m payment from the Premier League but will need other clubs to say yes to the request.