The Premier League has announced plans to create a round of 10 competitive fixtures to be played across the world in January 2011.

The ‘international round’ would be in addition to the traditional 38 home and away matches that each of the 20 Premier League Clubs currently play, earning participating teams an extra £5m in revenue.

Richard Scudamore, chief executive of the Premier League, said: “The international round is an exciting and innovative proposal that needs consideration before being introduced.

“However, this concept recognises the truly global appeal of the Barclays Premier League, while understanding that the traditions of the English game have always underpinned our success.

“The globalisation of sport is both an opportunity and a challenge, one that needs addressing in a responsible way. We are a better competition for being a cosmopolitan league and have benefited from our increased international reach. Nonetheless, it is critical we retain our English character by improving our efforts to produce homegrown talent, deepening our commitment to community engagement and continuing our investment in the grass roots.”

The plans have been met with no small amount of controversy. New sport secretary Andy Burnham called for “careful consideration”, while fans, supporters groups, as well as the national press, have called accused the Premier League of selling out.