Overseas matches not in 'current plans' for Premier League but 'door looks ajar'

Richard Masters says the "door looks ajar" to play Premier League matches overseas - but insists it is not part of the English top flight's current plans.

FIFA is in the process of reviewing its rules concerning domestic matches being played in foreign territories, something it has previously forbidden.

LaLiga president Javier Tebas has already expressed interest in playing matches in the United States, but the topic is a delicate one in England after proposals in 2008 for a 39th round of matches overseas were torpedoed by negative fan reaction in addition to pressure from FIFA.

Masters said at the European Leagues general assembly on Friday: "The door looks ajar for matches abroad. It is not part of our current plans."

Two Premier League clubs - Chelsea and Manchester City - will be playing competitive games in the United States in the summer of 2025 at FIFA's inaugural 32-team Club World Cup.

Masters criticised the lack of consultation from FIFA over the introduction of that tournament, and said players and their unions were increasingly concerned too about the extra pressures being placed upon them.

Asked if players could take matters into their own hands, Masters said: "It is getting to a tipping point. The feedback we have from players is that there is too much football being played and there is constant expansion. The Premier League hasn't changed shape. What has changed over the last few decades is the march of international and regional football competitions.

"We are proud to be different in England. We still have two cup competitions. We still believe it is for us to determine how big our league is. If you pour more liquid into a cup that is already full, it will overflow.

"That is what is happening at the