In spite of the world’s economic crisis, and a financial meltdown of world markets in a way not seen before, football has held up remarkably well.
I am pleased to tell you that by prudent use of our investments they have remained generally unscathed, and in spite of paper losses on the stock market as of last year these have now recovered as well, so that speaks well during these testing times.
The only problems have been suffered by bodies such as the Football Association who had done its television deal with Setanta, and following their demise has now struggled to maintain its income levels which have been crucial to help fund the new Wembley stadium and the proposed Burton Football Centre, as well as preparing for the 2018 World Cup bid.
Part of the Premier League television deal which was with Setanta has now been taken over by ESPN without any drop in income.
I am pleased to report that for the World Cup bid the FA has made much use of the ideas of the PFA to include many of our foreign players in the brochure making our bid an appeal to fans throughout the world as England being a home from home together with the message with regard to our stadiums, the crowd sizes and the great love for football in this country which extends to all members of the community.
Official members of the bid as well as myself include Deputy Chief Executive, Bobby Barnes our Chairman, Chris Powell along with one of our Trustees, Paul Elliott to name but a few of the many ex-players involved in the bid.
Closer to home it is a pleasure to see the senior England Team qualify so soon for the World Cup and our best wishes go to Fabio Capello and all the squad and also fingers crossed that our members in the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland teams also qualify.
More from the Chief Executive on Givemefootball tomorrow.
