Irish Examiner view: €2.3bn deal puts Premier League in pole position

American broadcaster NBC has extended the television deal to 2028

Newcastle United's Joelinton (right) celebrates scoring their side's second goal of the game with team-mates during the Premier League match at St James' Park, Newcastle upon Tyne, on Saturday. Newcastle United has been taken over by the sovereign investment fund of Saudi Arabia. Picture: PA

Just a few weeks ago, problems seemed to mount for the English Premier League. The chaotic arguments about the formation of a new European super competition caused rancour, resentment, street protests, and legal disputes.

Then there was the takeover, just last month, of Newcastle United by the sovereign investment fund of Saudi Arabia, an absolutist monarchy whose interpretation and implementation of Sharia law runs counter to many of the liberal and libertarian causes espoused and promoted by football club boards and owners.