This is the nuclear option. It is the red button the unions and leagues hoped not to press but they feel they have been left with no alternative.
Unions, by reputation, do not need to be asked twice to fight for the rights of their members but that fact the leagues – including the Premier League – are backing this action makes it significant.
The threat of legal action has been spoken about in football circles for over a year and there is now a united front, one the Professional Footballers’ Association wanted to ensure before progressing.
Fifa’s response and argument against accuses some clubs of hypocrisy – taking their players around the globe on summer tours – while also saying Fifpro is consulted over the calendar so expect a strong defence from the world governing body.
Yet there is a determination from all the complainants to follow both cases through if a resolution outside the courts is not found. Unions and leagues want to see a change from Fifa and, if not, this will go the distance.
SANGHA KOMMUNE (SSR) 