Everton chief Keith Wyness has revealed he's convinced the Premiership face a threat from big Asian clubs for the world's best talent.
"In short term we will be competing with the likes of Chelsea and Manchester United, but I think in the next 5-10 years we'll be competing with Asian leagues for players," says Wyness. "They will get their act together, and we'll see the best talent think about going to China or Japan or wherever.
"That is why it is important for Premiership clubs like ourselves to capitalise on our dominant position in those markets at present.
"And it is so crucial now to strengthen the club and take these steps forward, otherwise we will be left behind not only in the UK and in Europe, but also on the global stage.
"I hope the fans can understand that what often feels like a drive for pure commercial greed is instead trying to get a footing in an unlevel playing field that we will be in."
"In short term we will be competing with the likes of Chelsea and Manchester United, but I think in the next 5-10 years we'll be competing with Asian leagues for players," says Wyness. "They will get their act together, and we'll see the best talent think about going to China or Japan or wherever.
"That is why it is important for Premiership clubs like ourselves to capitalise on our dominant position in those markets at present.
"And it is so crucial now to strengthen the club and take these steps forward, otherwise we will be left behind not only in the UK and in Europe, but also on the global stage.
"I hope the fans can understand that what often feels like a drive for pure commercial greed is instead trying to get a footing in an unlevel playing field that we will be in."
