Deserved victory for supporters, says Boris
BORIS Johnson applauded the collapse of the breakaway European Super League as “the right result” for football fans.
Speaking in the Commons yesterday, the Prime Minister welcomed the withdrawal of the six English clubs.
It was confirmed by No 10 that a supporter-led review into the game will be overseen by former sports minister Tracey Crouch.
Mr Johnson told MPs: “I welcome the decision taken by the six English football teams.
“The announcement was the right result for football fans, for clubs and for communities across the country.”
His spokesman said the Government’s review will look at football governance, finances and the fans’ experience, including whether they can have a stake in clubs as they do in Germany.
He added: “We don’t see the withdrawal of these clubs as the end of the process.”
A suggestion from Andrea Agnelli, Juventus chairman and vice-chair of the rebel league, that Government opposition to the plan was due to Brexit was dismissed by Downing Street.
Mr Agnelli said the disruption caused to the Premier League would have been seen “as an attack to Brexit”.
Mr Johnson’s spokesman said: “I would reject that.The Prime Minister was very clear on why it was right to step in and take action that contributed to these clubs stepping back from this proposal, which was the importance of football at the heart of communities up and down the country.”
Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden described the collapse of the plan as “a victory for fans”. He added: “The country has been united in condemning these proposals.
“The Government has stood firmly behind the footballing authorities in saying we will do whatever it takes to stop this.
“It’s a great day for fans of football up and down the country – it’s their victory.”