FIFPro Division Europe, UNI Europa and ETUC have today in Brussels entered into an agreement to defend the fundamental democratic and social rights of professional football players and other professional sportspeople.

Romania and Italy played each other on Wednesday. But the 1-1 draw was overshadowed by the racist abuse of Mario Balotelli, who was repeatedly booed by a group of about 100 extreme right-wing Italian fans.

FIFPro named four players’ unions as Candidate Member during the general assembly. In doing so, the world players’ union rewarded the progress made by the players’ unions of Ghana, Namibia, Ukraine and Zimbabwe.

The Irish footballers’ association released its transfer list of players who are out of contract at the end of season 2010. The list comprises of players who have indicated that they are actively seeking employment.

FIFPro is two members richer. During the general assembly in Kuala Lumpur, the world association for professional footballers welcomed the unions of DR Congo and the Ivory Coast into its midst.