World's oldest club, Sheffield FC, speaks out about European Super League

Sheffield FC, the world’s oldest football club, has spoken out against plans for a breakaway European Super League.
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Twelve of Europe's leading clubs, including Manchester United, Liverpool, Barcelona and Juventus, yesterday confirmed plans to form a new midweek competiton in which their participation would be guaranteed every season.

The idea has been condemned by fans, pundits and the likes of UEFA and the Premier League, which have threatened sanctions against those clubs and players involved.

Sheffield FC chairman Richard Tims with the Brazilian football legend Pele on the club's 150th anniversary in 2007Sheffield FC chairman Richard Tims with the Brazilian football legend Pele on the club's 150th anniversary in 2007
Sheffield FC chairman Richard Tims with the Brazilian football legend Pele on the club's 150th anniversary in 2007
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Now Sheffield FC which was formed more than 160 years and is officially recognised as the world’s oldest surviving club, has had its say.

In a statement published today, it said: “As the World's First Football Club formed in 1857, we have played the game and honored its traditions continually for 164 years.

"We regard ourselves as custodians of the beautiful game, and as such we are deeply concerned about the proposed European Super League and what it means for the future of the sport.

"We would like to have it on record that Sheffield FC strongly opposes the formation of a new European Super League, and we maintain the opinion that it goes against everything that football stands for.

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"Sheffield FC would like to reassure its members, fans and supporters that we are fully committed to preserving the time-honored values associated with our beloved game, and we will continue to promote Integrity, Respect and Community within football.”

Its stance has been widely applauded, with one fan commenting: "YOU ARE the TRUE FOOTBALL! And football means a sport that belongs to common people and not capitalist investors and opportunists.”