NTL Collapse May Hit Pardew's Funds

Last updated : 18 July 2002 By Rob Cooper
The Football League signed a six-year deal worth £65 million with NTL back in 1999. So far £50 million has been paid to the League, the Royals are due a further payment of £150,000 on Friday.

However, as with ITV Digital, there is some doubt as to whether Reading will receive that money.

NTL want to renegotiate their deal, as things stand the clubs receive 50% of profits, the company, who run the Nationwide League sites under the name of Premium TV, are offering 80% if the remaining £15 million is waived by the League.

Chairman of Nationwide League clubs are currently been asked their opinions on the possible move which would help NTL as they continue to try to protect themselves against bankrupcy.

Royals Chief executive Nigel Howe told Teamtalk: Howe said: "I think the Football League will renegotiate a new deal, but we want them (NTL) to honour the payment of £150,000 which is due this week and I expect us to get it.

"We have budgeted for that money and I will be a happy bunny if we get it. The problem now is NTL have gone into receivership in the USA but as yet we don't how it will affect European business."

Reading Football Club this week launched a service on their website known as 'Reading World' which enables users who sign up for what is a fairly expensive service to view interviews, goals, etc.

I believe that this service is a rip off for true fans of the game, the Football League clubs are trying to eliminate unofficial sites such as Reading MAD. Therefore I advise Royals fans to save their money and not waste it on an expensive service.