FA like foreign concept

The Football Association's Professional Game Board have backed the Premier League's plans to take games abroad in the coming seasons. The plan is to add a 39th 'international round' in the 2010/2011 season.

PGB chairman Lord Mawhinney said in a statement: "Members of the PGB welcomed the opportunity to discuss the concept of the international round with the Premier League."

He added: "The PGB was pleased to confirm that last Thursday's announcement was only the start of a process, and that the Premier League itself recognises the necessity of a detailed period of consultation with the FA, the Football League and other significant stakeholders in the game.

"The PGB, however, did note this was an innovative and exciting proposal and, given the above assurances, appreciated the strategic need for it to be explored comprehensively."