ITV Digital to close

This means that Carlton and Granada (parent companies)and the Footabll League have until the 15th of April to come up with a deal with reference to the Football League rights. The Football League will accept £90 million with the rest to follow at a later date, ITV Sport claim they can only afford £50 million. Parent Companies, Carlton and Granada are free from any liabilty following these terms been entered into the contract.

The effects of this could be tragic with as many of 10 clubs rumoured to be go into voluntary adminstration if ITV Sport money does not materialise. The BBC and BSkyB are set to fight for the televised right but the fee will be a long way off the £315 million agreed last year. ITV Sport is to close with immediate effect, the other channels are set to continue but rumours are rife that these will shut down April 15th.