FA calls on Carlton to honour contract

The chief executive of the Football Association Adam Crozier entered the payment dispute between the Football League and ITV Digital yesterday, claiming there is "a perceived lack of trust" in the network's ability to screen sport with integrity in the future.

The FA had refused to comment on the row between the League and ITV Digital's parent companies Carlton and Granada, but Crozier yesterday said the FA have been "in constant dialogue" with all parties concerned.

"The current dispute between ITV Digital and the Football League is a serious issue for the future of football and broadcaster alike," he said in a statement. "Were ITV Digital not to honour its commitments and contract with the League, it would have serious implications for many of the clubs who play an important role in communities across the country. The onus is on Carlton and Granada to come up with solutions that are workable for the Football League."

Barcelona yesterday claimed to have held talks with the Chelsea manager Claudio Ranieri. Their vice-president Angel Fernandez said: "We have spoken to Claudio Ranieri, Javier Irureta of Deportivo La Coruña and Carlos Bianchi, the former Boca Juniors boss."

The Newcastle striker Craig Bellamy has returned to full training a day overdue as he tries to win a place in the squad for tonight's Premiership game against Fulham. The 22-year-old was given an extra 24 hours to protect the knee he injured in February.

Gary Speed is included after shaking off a hamstring injury, but Shola Ameobi and Jamie McClen are both still sidelined.