Blatter claims Ferguson's support

My Account
Logout

Create an Evening Standard Account

Use your social network

Save time by using your existing account to sign in to Evening Standard

We'll never share your information or post anything to your account without your permission

Welcome! Sign in here

Use your social network

Save time by using your existing account to sign in to Evening Standard

We'll never share your information or post anything to your account without your permission

Forgot your password ?

Registration

* indicates fields that are mandatory

Email *

Password *

Confirm Password *

First name *

Surname *

Postcode *

Country *

Mobile phone number

Username *

Gender *

Year of birth *

When you sign up...

You will have access to all our online competitions, discounted offers and can post comments on our site.

You will also receive The Weekender newsletter sent every Thursday - it’s full of fantastic offers and ideas for the weekend. You can update your email preferences in your account page when you log in.

Other newsletters and emails

Homes & Property Newsletter - Yes I want to receive the weekly email with all the latest news on property in the capital

Occasionally we would also like to send you relevant emails detailing specific offers either from ourselves or carefully selected partners. If you would prefer not to receive these then please tick the appropriate boxes below. We will never pass on your details.

I do not want to receive additional offers and information from the Evening Standard

I do not want to receive additional offers and information sent by Evening Standard on behalf of carefully selected partners

Terms and Conditions

* I have read, understood and agree to be bound by the terms and conditions of Evening Standard

Registration

Mail Sent for Registration Confirmation.

A confirmation email has been sent. Please activate your account by clicking on the activation link sent in your mail box.

Blatter introduced the quota proposal last year, with the Premier League often the subject of his criticism for what he perceives to be a lack of homegrown players. When the proposal was first introduced it was believed it would flounder on the European Union's insistence on free movement of labour around member states.

But Blatter said: "I spoke with the leadership, including Sir Alex Ferguson, and he said it is a good solution because it will automatically not only give access to young players but it will also bring back a little of the expenses."

He told BBC Radio 5 Live: "Manchester United have started to have more players. In the starting XI the other day, they had four.

"We do not penalise the Premier League. The Premier League will still be well organised even if they start to have more players.

"We are now in a economic crisis."

He added: "I have my concerns because the PL is the strongest league in the world, definitely, and taking over in such a manner that other leagues have difficulties to match the Premier League.

"There is another factor. Where is the competition when two thirds or three quarters of participants play not to be first? They play not to be relegated. There is something wrong there.

"That's why we had the solution of the FIFA congress.

"I feel positive now - more positive than I have been because of this legal advice from specialists in European law."