Learn from the Masters

Chelsea (it's becoming an obsession sorry) have come out today denying they are seeking to join the self styled G14 group of rich clubs. G14 - they weren't much cop on X factor now they want to push the rest us around in football. It's a strange move on the part of Chelsea, possibly motivated by the size of their pockets more than the belief that rich clubs getting together is a terrible cancer on our game.

Chelsea, were they interested in joining, could enjoyall the benefits afforded the current 18 members of the G14. In any other arena such an organisation would be seen as anti-competitive as they seek to influence the powers that be. On certain issues they appear to be a force for reason and justice. Compensation for clubs who lose players to international call up injuries seems entirely fair. Setting yourself apart from the rest of the football world. Guaranteeing yourself automatic entry into the lucrative club competitions at the expense of the rest seems entirely wrong, and should be resisted.

Our own breakaway Premier League should be suitable evidence of the folly to football as a whole of such elitist power seizing. If you don't believe me try asking the supporters of Oldham, Nottingham Forest, Bradford City, Coventry City, Leicester City, QPR, Barnsley, Southampton, Sheffield Wednesday, Ipswich Town, Norwich City, Watford and Crystal Palace. All clubs who have played Premiership football and gone on to severe financial troubles since the parachute money dried up.