Article: Soccer in the UK
February 21st, 2009Soccer in the United Kingdom has a new meaning these days - it is replacing cricket as the most popular sport in the country. All thanks to quicker games and financial support soccer receives. The contribution of the English Premier League to the popularity of this sport in the country cannot be undermined. The English Premier League is a competition between 20 football teams. Manchester United, Arsenal, Chelsea and liverpool are some of the most famous teams in the league.
The FIFA World Cup that was held in England in 1966 has made the sport even more popular. To top it, England even won the title that year.
Sport persons like David Beckham have today become the icons of the United Kingdom - so much so, they receive as much attention, if not more, as many of the film stars. The downside of this league is however, the fact that few teams dominate the proceedings each year. Since 1996, only 3 teams have been able to win championship until 2008 - Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester United. EPL is also very liberal in allowing foreign players to participate. The popularity of the EPL and the money it pays, makes it a hot favorite for foreign players to play for one of the EPLY teams, particularly the top 4.
