UEFA general secretary Gianni Infantino denies their financial fair play laws are "anti-English". UEFA published its annual benchmark report which warns two English clubs - understood to be Manchester City and Chelsea - are among 46 across 22 European countries who could fall foul of its financial rules based on 2009-2011 figures.

Infantino insisted the financial measures were not targeted at England, and recommended that the Premier League adopt similar rules which are on the agenda for their meeting on Thursday.

He said: "It has been perceived by some as a sort of anti-English thing - absolutely not. It is just a good common sense rule that everyone of us is implementing at home; if you earn £1,000 you can't spend £1,200.

"We can only encourage the Premier League as we encourage each league and association. I think it's very positive.

"We are very happy that the Football League has already introduced financial fair play."