Latest TV deal

[Natter]

This is what the FA say on their website:

 

"The FA can today confirm that ITV and Setanta will be its exclusive UK broadcast partners for the four-year period from August 2008 to July 2012.

 

The announcement follows the conclusion of a bidding process for a range of FA events, including the core broadcast properties – The FA Cup and England matches.

 

The new deal will generate £425 million for The FA over the four-year term – a 42% increase on the current £300 million agreement with BBC and Sky, which expires on July 31 2008. The increased revenue will allow The FA to re-invest more funding back into the game at all levels."

 

Especially when you consider the income stream which will be generated by the new Wembley (Wembley National Stadium Limited is a subsidiary of FA) even after allowing for outstanding debts and any other share-holders payments, there will be a big wodge available to 'fund the game at all levels'.

Will the funding decisions be made by the same people who selected the recent England team managers? Answers on a postage stamp please