Could football undermine devolution bid?

The British Government has been trying to devolve powers to city regions in England.  Greater Manchester has forged ahead, but the north-east has lagged behind.

Helen Barbour, the vice-chairman of wax jacket company Barbour, has expressed concern that the rivalry between Newcastle United and Sunderland risked jeopardising the region’s bid for devolution.

How fair is financial fair play?

The Football League has issued detailed guidance on its revised financial fair play regulations.   Championship clubs are allowed a loss of £13m in 2015-16 or £39m on a rolling three year basis.

The regulations attempt to take account of clubs moving between divisions.   This is necessary given that Premiership clubs are allowed to make a loss of £105m.   However, the question that arises is whether new unfairnesses have been set up.  

Sunderland’s dilemma

Sunderland fans turned on owner Ellis Short after they suffered their second defeat of the season at home to Norwich.   Although they have overcome their yo-yo reputation, Sunderland have never finished higher than 10th since their return to the Premier League and have often been involved in a relegation struggle.