Sign up now! Sign up now! Sign up now? Sign up now!You have to hand it to Gianni Infantino, his timing was impeccable. After the relative on-field success of the Geopolitics World Cup, Fifa’s omnipresent overlord knew he had to strike while the iron was hot. There would be a small gap in the news cycle. Domestic seasons around the world would be starting soon and there is always transfer news to dominate column inches and air time. But Gianni would not be denied. It was time to announce his grand plan. People like the World Cup? Great! Then why not sell stakes in the World Cup to rich private investors and make Fifa some more cash – genius! However, he managed to get his timing all wrong, allowing the brave boys from Uefa and Concacaf to take action, the former threatening to boycott all Fifa competitions until the plans are ditched.I have no problem with Gianni Infantino seeking to sell the commercial rights for the next World Cup finals for $20bn or more. This is the biggest sporting competition and deserves to raise as much revenue as possible from sponsors. That he can offer all the member countries upwards of $30m each would be a godsend for many smaller associations. What I do expect for the good of the game and for spectators of all ages is that the broadcasting of all matches remains free to air and doesn’t end up behind expensive paywalls. It’s bad enough in the UK that the Premier League, Football League, Prem Rugby and all first-class cricket matches are now behind paywalls and that access to actual matches is priced well beyond the average spectator’s ability to pay. How are fans, particularly those who are young and/or from poorer households, going to be able to afford to see matches? Fifa, Uefa and the FA have a duty to bring their sport to the widest audience possible at reasonable entrance prices at stadiums or for free on television. Rant over” – Tim Leech.Amid all the speculation over the demise of Eddie Howe at Newcastle (yesterday’s Football Daily), surely one look at that new kit would’ve been enough to see off anyone with a modicum of taste. He departs with dignity intact” – Steve Bennett. Continue reading...