AFC tells members to snub Premier League overseas plan

Asian countries should snub the English Premier League's efforts to stage matches on their turf, Asian Football Confederation (AFC) President Mohamed bin Hammam said in a statement yesterday.

The Premier League last week announced a proposal to launch an extra 'International Round' of fixtures during the 2010-11 season in cities that had bid for the rights to stage matches.

"It is my belief that it is not a good idea to organise domestic leagues in other territories other than their own," said Hammam.

"If this principle is accepted, then the FA Premier League must accept reciprocal arrangements within their own territory.

"My recommendation to the AFC Executive Committee would be to reject any initiatives of this nature."

Hammam said Asians should focus on building their domestic leagues rather than hosting overseas teams in non-exhibition matches.

Hammam said foreign clubs and national teams were welcome to play in Asia as long as they could contribute to the development of soccer in the region.

But he added: "At the present time, I can't see the wisdom in the proposed plans."