Edelman: Big four won't break away

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.

Premier League chief executive Richard Scudamore has argued the controversial plans for all 20 clubs to play a 39th game on foreign soil was partly driven by fears Manchester United, Arsenal, Chelsea and Liverpool would go and do it anyway.

But Edelman said in the News of the World: "I don't think that is right. We operate as a 20-club league. The league has been very successful and we have played our part in that, but collectivity is the strength of the league."

The concept of an 'international round' of matches from 2010-11 has faced an overwhelming backlash since the Premier League first announced it just over two weeks ago.

It appears more likely by the day that the plan will be consigned to the scrapheap but Edelman believes its critics need to think again.

"I think fans' reaction has been short-sighted in the UK," he said.

"I know football is an emotional game but sometimes you have to look at things analytically. That is what will be happening when the idea is reviewed over the next few months.

"I don't think it is dead in the water."