Sports ministry spokesman Tony Ohaeri said the decision had been taken "in the interest of football".

Marseille vice-president Jean-Louis Levreau said Tapie 'had taken an important decision in the interests of French football'.

"So many years the bureau of our federation forced the proclamation of documents that contradicted the interests of football and left our coaches and players without rights," he said.

Stoke re-branded themselves at Stoke F.C. (1908) in an attempt of re-ignite the local interest of football.

In allowing Lombardi to join the Redskins, the Packer board had acted in the "best interests" of pro football.

But in the best interests of pro football, Paul Tagliabue made his move.

Johnson has interests in sports outside of football.

To defend the moral and material interests of French football.

It exists for the interests of football and it is important to recognise that all profits reverted to the game of football.

It's not in the best interests of football.