Eddington: Overseas games unlikely

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Sir Rod Eddington, the former chief executive of British Airways, allegedly pitched the proposal to league officials last year in the hope that his hometown Melbourne would be one of the host venues.

But Eddington said: "It's unlikely to happen if the authorities are not in favour and both the Australian Federation and the AFC (Asian Football Confederation) have come out in opposition."

Since it was made public a week ago, the scheme has largely met with derision from key figures around the world.

Chiefs from Australia, Asia and America have all suggested that their territories would not be willing to stage any matches - at least until FIFA, world football's governing body, gave the plan their blessing, which appears unlikely.

And Eddington has admitted the outlook is increasingly bleak for a potential 39th round.

"We are up for it and would very much like it to take place. Melbourne's hand is up to host matches and the same goes for Sydney," he said.

"But the games have to mean something and be competitive to make it work, not just exhibitions."