MPs seek contract answers

MPs are to write to the FA and Premier League demanding answers over contracts won by a family firm linked to Sir Dave Richards, the chairman of the league.

Glue Creative Production Solutions, a marketing firm owned by Richards' son David, won deals with England's 2018 World Cup bid and the Premier League. The issue was discussed by MPs on the culture, media and sport committee - which is currently investigating football governance - ahead of their session on Tuesday after which it was decided to write to the two organisations.

Committee member Damian Collins, MP for Folkestone and Hythe, told Press Association Sport: "We are formally writing to the FA and Premier League asking them to explain their rules for how Sir Dave Richards would have disclosed he had a personal interest in a company receiving contracts for paid work for England 2018 and the Premier League."

Collins added: "We are also asking 'was that known before the contracts were awarded' and if not, why not.

"We have not seen any detailed explanation of how this was handled just an assertion there was not a conflict of interest."

It was revealed last week that Richards senior was on the board of Glue until last December. The company also carried out work for the Association of European Professional Football Leagues (EPFL).

Richards currently chairs the EPFL as well as the Premier League and at one time was on the board of England 2018.

It is understood the Premier League were aware of Richards' connections with Glue and both they and the EPFL have insisted there was no conflict of interest.

Neither the FA nor Richards have commented.