The Guardian
BSkyB has drafted in Professor Sir Roland Smith, the former chairman of Manchester United, as a consultant on sports rights negotiations.The 74-year-old joins the satellite broadcaster part time amid growing speculation that informal talks have begun between broadcasters and football clubs about the renegotiation of the Premier League television contract.
One of the most respected (hah hah) figures in football, Sir Roland retired this year after more than a decade as chairman of Britain's richest football club.
He had a long career as a company doctor, was chairman of British Aerospace and has served on the boards of the Bank of England, Equitable Life and House of Fraser.
He also fronted negotiations when United saw off BSkyB's takeover bid in 1998.
(EXCUSE ME????. “UNITED SAW OFF NEGOTIATIONS”????)
A spokesman for BSkyB declined to comment on Sir Roland's precise role,confirming only that he had recently become a consultant to the company.
