McLeish: Murdoch holds key to Premiership move

Rangers manager Alex McLeish believes media tycoon Rupert Murdoch holds the key to the Old Firm’s dream of joining the Premiership.

Celtic and Rangers have both campaigned hard in previous seasons to be allowed to join the English elite but so far England’s top-flight clubs have repelled their advances.

But McLeish argued that as the Premiership’s television deal with Sky remains its major source of income, financial factors could still make it happen.

The Gers boss told Rangers News: “I think if Rangers and Celtic are ever allowed to join the Premiership it will be media-driven. If Rupert Murdoch decides he wants the Old Firm in the Premiership then it could happen, as it is his ball.”

McLeish made it clear that a move to the Premiership would be even more exciting than the annual title duel with the Hoops.

As it stands however the riches in England and the relatively small television deal in Scotland means he cannot afford to make top-drawer purchases from England.