28 Apr 2010UEFA head slams English 'liberalism'

Football Finance News | Football Leagues/ Association and Governance

UEFA president Michel Platini has criticised English Premier League chiefs for what he perceives as their laissez-faire approach to the financial stewardship of its clubs.

Speaking to the Times, Platini suggested that the English game could be set for a period of financial contraction and confirmed that European football's governing body intends to press on with its Financial Fair Play scheme, due to be introduced in 2012.

The Frenchman also strenuously denied accusations that he is anti-English, saying: "I love the fans of England. I love them. My job, as president of UEFA, is to protect the game."

Platini claimed the new proposals have the backing of Chelsea tycoon Roman Abramovich and Manchester City owner Sheikh Mansour, as well as outlining plans to investigate match-fixing after recent allegations surrounding fixtures in Italy's Serie A.

Under the new regulations, approved by UEFA last September, clubs bankrolled by wealthy benefactors will only be permitted to cover deficits of up to £40 million for three years from the scheme's introduction.

Written by Paul Roberts

© Copyright