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Stories

Behavioural problems

As England captain John Terry's affair with Wayne Bridge's former girlfriend became public knowledge, WSC 277 examined the press reaction and questioned what the most important attributes for a captain of a football team really are

There’s a general rule to bear in mind if you’re unsure of what to think about a major talking point in football – find out Piers Morgan’s opinion then take the opposite view. In his latest Daily Mail column, the former Mirror editor declares that John Terry “is finished as England captain” now that his affair with Wayne Bridge’s former girlfriend has become public knowledge.

Over and tout

Bruce Wilkinson looks at government attempts to control how football tickets are sold

Football supporters are making a growing number of complaints about the ticketing industry and the huge expansion in secondary sales. In response the Department of Culture, Media and Sport has combined with another clumsily titled ministry, that of Business, Enterprise and Regulatory Reform, to produce a consultation paper on the issue. Modern technology has revolutionised ticket buying in many positive ways, such as giving a wider range of purchasing and payment options, but it has also democratised touting on an unprecedented scale. This ranges from supporters buying extras in order to make a bit of cash to organised gangs hoovering up blocks of seats and agencies offering big match entrance at extortionate rates. Internet-based auction sites have radically changed resales, giving the opportunity to make a quick buck to anyone with good broadband access and limited scruples. As a consequence, legislation is struggling to keep pace.