FIFA backs Sepp's '6+5'

Sepp Blatter gets full backing from FIFA to go with the controversial '6+5' foreign quota proposal to limit the number of foreign players to five in any starting line-up. He had recently received warnings that it would be incompatible with European Law.

FIFA president Sepp Blatter's idea of six-plus-five rule is based on grounds of nationality, which is incompatible with community law.

The annual congress of FIFA voted in favour of Sepp Blatter and could come into force for the 2012/2013 season. The English FA supported his idea, but it seems he can expect opposition from the European Union. The EU are more positive about a proposal from UEFA, "home-grown players' rule", that would allow a fixed number of players trained in a particular country to be in the team, not necessarily of that nationality.

"In a study we did of the home-grown players' rule, we're of the opinion - on the basis of current evidence - that in fact that rule neatly side-steps the problem of direct discrimination, which is against community law, and can be considered to be compatible with community law," said EU spokesman John MacDonald.

Uefa defines "home-grown players" as team members who, regardless of age or nationality, have been trained by their club or by another club in the National Association for at least three years between the ages of 15 and 21.

But, the FA spokesman supported the six-plus-five, "Bringing through more high-quality English players in the future is an absolute priority for the FA. One of our reservations has always been that the six-plus-five rule appears to contravene European law and we welcome further exploration of its legality.

"However, this is a question of balance and we believe first and foremost in a meritocracy system, where players appear in club teams based on performance and ability. This is at the core of our coach and player development strategy over the coming years."

Vladimir Spadia, the Europe's commissioner for equal opportunities stated that the new plan implies direct discrimination and therefore incompatible with the EU law.

However, Sepp Blatter has decided to go with his idea and has got the support of many great footballers like Beckenbauer, Cryuff, Platini and Pele.

Michel Platini, the UEFA president said that he will work with Blatter to discuss the proposal.