Football’s future

Ken Bates, a man of a similar vintage to Mr Murdoch and with a similar penchant for causing controversy, should have done likewise when a Commons committee investigated football’s governance and, specifically, outstanding questions about Leeds United’s ownership.

That he did not do so is one reason why MPs have suggested a wider inquiry into the finances of Leeds United since the club went into administration four years ago.

While issues of ownership and such like only pre-occupy fans when their team performs poorly on the pitch, this latest report is a poor indictment on the state of football’s finances and the way in which the sport is run at the highest level. It should be acted upon.

To their credit, MPs have made a number of recommendations that will help football regain some of its lost prestige. Transparency by all is imperative if this goal is to be achieved.