Premiership: Man Utd games to be screened in US

Manchester United premiership games are to be screened in the US, making it the first European football club to be featured regularly on US TV, it emerged today.

About 20 matches will be shown this year, starting with next month’s clash with Chelsea, under the deal with the Yankees Entertainment and Sports (YES) Network, which broadcasts New York Yankees baseball games.

Peter Holland, secretary of the Manchester United Supporters Club USA, said his members were delighted with the announcement.

‘‘This is a great development. It’s a major boost for everyone living in America who loves the club, and loves the English Premier League.’’

He said there are around 50,000 die hard Manchester United fans across the US.

‘‘With this deal we could see the number go through the roof.’’

Football’s popularity in the US has grown dramatically in recent years, and is now one of the favourite games played in schools.

Leo Hindery, chairman of the Yes Network, said he was not sure what kind of ratings to expect.

Yes will sell advertising and share an undisclosed percentage with Manchester United.

The deal follows last year’s announcement of a strategic alliance between Manchester United and the New York Yankees, which saw the two sharing marketing information and developing joint sponsorships and promotions.