Big four set for Champions League TV windfall

THE top four clubs in England are set to enjoy a new European payday that will enable them to pull even further away from their domestic rivals.

The cost of the British broadcasting rights for the Champions League is expected to rise by more than 25% — and much of that will be passed on to those English clubs that qualify for the group stage of the competition.

UEFA’s deadline for bids for the rights passed yesterday with the BBC, ITV, Sky and Setanta all understood to have thrown their hats into the ring.