Eric Robson investigates the state of English football. On the pitch, things seem to be going well, with English clubs like Liverpool and Nottingham Forest dominating in Europe. Off the pitch, however, things are very different. Many English football grounds – including Wembley Stadium – are in a dire state, clubs like Chelsea and Fulham are in financial turmoil, and with football hooliganism rife many lifelong fans are now choosing to stay away on match days. As player wages and transfer fees rise dramatically, and with the spectre of the nascent US soccer league – with its seemingly limitless resources – looming on the horizon, is now the time for a rethink on how football is funded?

Nottingham Forest manager Brian Clough, Southampton boss Lawrie McMenemy and Watford chairman Elton John outline where they think English football is headed, and what steps need to be taken.

This clip is from Brass Tacks, originally broadcast 15 May 1979.

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