LONDON - The Premier League have pulled out of their trip to see FIFA president Sepp Blatter on Thursday because they want more time to develop their plans for overseas matches.
The League's chief executive Richard Scudamore had planned to go to FIFA headquarters with Football Association chairman Lord Triesman in order to try to persuade Blatter of the merits of each club playing a 39th game in a foreign city.
Blatter had already signalled his vehement opposition to the plans and now the League has decided to delay the visit.
The League said in a statement: "The Premier League have been discussing their strategic global development with numerous professionals throughout the football world.
"It is our considered view following these discussions that we need to conduct further internal studies and consultation before seeking the advice of the world governing body FIFA and the key confederations.
"This project is still very much in its infancy, was always subject to development, clarification and wide consultation and we remain disappointed that these facts and many others were lost when early opinions were formed by many without any detailed knowledge.
"Having consulted with FIFA, we have decided to delay our planned visit whilst we conduct further work prior to addressing them and their confederations formally.
"We sincerely believe that the Premier League has much to offer the development of the game internationally as witnessed by the many federations and leagues that currently seek our involvement and advice.
"There never has been a rush to conclude these matters and we are more than willing to take time to develop our proposals further before seeking approval, without which it is not our intention to proceed."
FIFA welcomed the Premier League's decision.
A statement from the world governing body read: "FIFA has been advised by the English Premier League that the league, accompanied by senior representatives of the English FA, does not seek a meeting with FIFA at this time to discuss the project of a 39th match day to be played abroad.
"It is further acknowledged that the Premier League wishes to conduct further internal studies and research.
"FIFA welcomes the Premier League's decision and initiative, which re-establishes the positive and constructive relations between the FA, the FA Premier League and world football's governing body.
"FIFA is happy with this development and thanks the Premier League leadership for its constructive approach."
