Originally Posted by Mark.:
“It seems utterly bizarre that UEFA haven't found another broadcast partner to replace Setanta.
Surely not every broadcaster believes the rights to be too expensive, considering the (relatively) minuscule amounts involved?”
I think Villa going out puts an end to any prospect of anyone paying more than a nominal fee for Setanta's rights.
I can't imagine anyone now paying what Setanta were contracted to pay.
So I think it will just be a question of whether UEFA will accept a nominal fee (most likely from Five or ITV4) for Setanta's rights.
I think it's a very good point about the possibility of much stronger English teams in the Europa League next year. But at the same time it is far from certain - remember 2 of the 3 places go to the FA Cup and Carling Cup winners so it's very possible to get surprise Cup winners just leaving the team coming 5th in the PL as the only strong team (with Five getting all their games).
So I don't think anyone will factor much extra in on a gamble of stronger teams next year.