The Times report:
‘A Barclays Premiership chairman gave warning yesterday about television overkill amid expectations that even more live football may be screened when the next Premier League contract comes into force in 2007. Already more than one third of the league’s fixtures are broadcast live and Richard Murray, head of Charlton Athletic plc, believes that attendances will be hit by any further increase.
‘Pressure from the European Commission forced up the number of live Premiership matches from 106 to 138 this season, out of a total of 380 games, with 88 shown on Sky Sports and 50 on PremPlus, the pay-per-view channel. The present deal will last three years and the EC’s stated desire to increase choice for consumers is thought likely to lead to yet more coverage when the new contract is negotiated during the next 18 months or so.
“We must not allow our product to be overexposed on television as ultimately this will almost certainly lead to a decline in match attendances,” Murray said. “Exposure is a good thing for crowd levels. Overexposure can be a bad thing. We have got to be aware of it for the future.”
‘“I am particularly concerned that we protect the level of away support as this provides the passionate atmosphere which is so integral to the appeal of Premiership football throughout the world,” he said.
‘Murray’s concern was echoed by the Premier League. “We wholeheartedly agree with Charlton that there is a balance to be struck in regard to the number of televised games to ensure match-day attendances are maintained,” a spokesman said. “Indeed, the latest increase in the number of matches broadcast came about as a direct result of regulatory pressure from Europe.”
‘David Dein, the Arsenal vice-chairman, has offered similar sentiments and the change in attitudes is welcomed by the Football Supporters’ Federation. “Thankfully, the penny is starting to drop with people at the top of our game,” Malcolm Clarke, the chairman, said. “He [Murray] is absolutely right to be worried about away fans.
‘“Since the Premiership came in we have seen ticket prices rocket and television has caused ludicrous changes of kick-off times and dates. If you get a mid-table game on a Monday night where fans have to travel a long distance and pay £40 for a ticket, the temptation to stay at home is very real.”’