FA: 4 problems with 'game 39'

The FA have highlighted four potential hurdles and problems that could prevent the successfulness of the 39th game idea that would see the Premiership go global. Football Association chairman Lord Triesman revealed his thoughts.

Triesman said: 'Firstly, whatever is proposed must not damage the domestic competitions or prospects of the national team.

'Fixture congestion is a real issue and I have not seen solutions to this yet.

'Secondly, I am quite clear that the relationships with international bodies have to be sustained, not just because of England's bid for the 2018 World Cup, although that is very significant for us and it would be foolish of anyone to pretend that it is not.

'Thirdly, there has to be a real sense of comfort among the whole football family, fans included, that it is a viable and credible proposal.

'Fourthly, people should feel that whatever happens does not induce the kind of unfairness that may mean that their side, which is perhaps fighting relegation, has a third game against a side which would probably do them some damage in the average encounter.'