Is it all demographics?

In yesterday’s Sunday Times Rod Liddle wrote an article, in the context of the troubles of Hereford United, about why some clubs survive and others go under.    Of course, in any other sector of the economy, there would have been far more clubs disappearing by now, but fan identity and civic pride ensures that football does not follow the normal laws of economics.

Could Qatar bid for Spurs?

Qatar currently lacks a Premiership football club in its trophy cabinet.   Reports are circulating that they may be interested in acquiring Spurs, an interest being stimulated by London mayor Boris Johnson.  He sees the new stadium at White Hart Lane as key to the deprived area’s regeneration, but at the moment the project is stalled.

Qatar Sports Investments, which owns Paris Saint Germain, has said that its focus is there and it is not interested in investing in Spurs or any other European club.  But that does not rule out interest from other Qatari entities.

Cardiff debts shifted to Tan

Cardiff City owner Vincent Tan has paid off some of the debts relating to the building of the club’s new stadium, as well as other debts relating to player acquisitions.

However, this does not change the club’s underlying financial situation, just who the money is owed to.  It is estimated that the club could now own Tan over £150m.   Only converting some of this debt into equity would change the position.

Football League show to switch channels

The Football League Show is to switch from the BBC to Channel 5 from next season.  The deal runs for three seasons.  Channel 5 did not offer any more money than other bids on the table, but promised to screen the show at the prime time of 9 pm on Saturdays.

At present the show follows Match of the Day on the BBC.   The late night timing is inconvenient for many fans, although there is a repeat on Sundays.    This will continue.