EU reiterate FIFA opposition

The European Union is holding firm in its position that Sepp Blatter’s ’six-plus-five’ rule is illegal.

FIFA on Friday voted in favour of the rule, which would limit every team to only five foreign players in their starting XI.

FIFA president Blatter has said he hopes the controversial rule will be in place by the 2012/13 season.

However, EU spokesman John MacDonald told Sky Sports News the plan was unworkable in Europe as it discriminates on the grounds of nationality.

“The EC Treaty prohibits that,” he said. “UEFA have proposed an alternative rule that they’re calling the homegrown players rule.

“We’re of the opinion that rule neatly side-steps an issue of direct discrimination. Any indirect discrimination is justified by the aim.”

UEFA’s homegrown players rule would implement a quota of players trained by the club, or another within its association, for at least three years between the ages of 15 and 21.

MacDonald explained: “We investigated whether it would lead to indirect discrimination (which) can be allowed if the rule is proportionate to the objectives and in the case of the homegrown player rule we believe it is justified and proportionate.”

Should FIFA press ahead with the ’six-plus-five’ rule they would likely find themselves challenged in court.

MacDonald said: “If they were to implement the rule in Europe what would happen would be any professional aggrieved by the rule would go to court and would probably win the case.”

He added that, while UEFA have been keen to liaise with the EU on the issue, “FIFA have been less forthcoming”.