A World Cup full of memorable moments was also marked by exclusion, exploitation and unprecedented political meddling, writes JAMES NALTON
MORE football clubs could go out of business in the coming weeks unless an agreement on a bailout package for the Football League is agreed quickly, a parliamentary committee has heard.
Last month English Football League (EFL) clubs reached an agreement in principle to accept an offer from the Premier League of a £50 million bailout for those in League One and League Two, but Championship clubs have only been offered the chance to apply for hardship funds on a case-by-case basis.
The protracted negotiations have led to fears that clubs could follow Bury and Macclesfield in going to the wall — a warning repeated by football finance expert Kieran Maguire as he appeared before the digital, culture, media and sport committee today.
Independent Football Regulator boss calls on Premier League and EFl to reach new financial deal
As football grapples with overloaded calendars and commercial pressure, the Mariners’ triumph reminds us why the game’s soul lives far from the spotlight, writes JAMES NALTON



