FIFA deal to boost player power

FIFA have joined forces with FIFPro, the International Federation of Professional Footballers, in a move which will give the players an official voice in decision-making.

In what was described by FIFA president Sepp Blatter as an “historic day” for football, the two organisations signed an agreement which will see the bodies try to reach common ground on problems facing the sport.

Blatter, flanked by FIFPro president Philippe Piat and Barcelona stars Samuel Eto’o and Lilian Thuram, said: “The players form an important part of our footballing family and must be part of the decision-making at international level.”