Premier League's '39th match' a good idea, say rivals

By Mitch Phillips

LONDON (Reuters) - The Premier League's controversial "international round" concept was backed on Wednesday by leading officials from the Spanish and German leagues.

Earlier this year the Premier League proposed to play an extra international round of fixtures, in five cities around the world from the 2010/11 season but after a widespread opposition and a rejection from the FA, plans seemed to have been put on the back-burner.

However, those behind it may dig out their plans for a 39th round of matches again after being given rousing support from representatives of some of the rest of Europe's major leagues, who jealously look on at the Premier League's enormous global reach and income.

Speaking at the Soccerex Forum at Wembley Stadium, Francisco Roca Perez, CEO of the Spanish league, said: "I thought it was a great idea, it seemed quite natural.

"I was really surprised by the reaction and many of the criticisms were misunderstandings of what the objectives are.

"I think this first step has reached a mass opposition but eventually it will become normal as this league and these teams are so well liked all over the world."

Tom Bender, director of marketing for the Bundesliga, also backed the plan but said it had been badly presented.

"I think it was very good example of how a good idea can be ruined in three seconds," he said.