Palin puts power to Blades' battle
Michael PalinEX Python and globe trotting superstar Michael Palin has backed Sheffield United's Campaign for Fairness as part of the club's bid to be reinstated in the Premiership.
The Sheffield-born comedian, actor, writer and TV presenter has lent his support to the Blades' battle to keep their Premier League status which is being spearheaded by fellow Sheffielder and Hollywood star Sean Bean.
Palin, who took time out from a busy writing and filming schedule to lend his weight to the Bramall Lane faithful, urged United to keep fighting against the injustice of the league's decision.
Michael said: "I heartily support Sean Bean and all those who feel strongly that the arbitration panel should re-consider the decision on West Ham United's punishment.
"A fine makes precious little difference to a club like West Ham, and a points deduction would have not only matched the crime, but have been a just encouragement for all those clubs, who, like Sheffield United, have played fair.
"To let the current judgement stand makes everyone involved look as if they really don't care."
Sheffield United are challenging the Premier League's decision not to dock points from West Ham at the end of last season and calling for the London club to take their place in the Championship.
The Hammers were fined £5.5m for irregularities over the purchase and fielding of Carlos Tevez and Javier Mascherano, but escaped a points deduction meaning they were able to beat the drop.
The Premier League agreed to set up an arbitration tribunal on June 18 to rule on Sheffield United's complaints which centre on fairness in football.
United wants to demonstrate through their campaign that the credibility and integrity of the national game has been called into question and clubs that breach the rules must be dealt with severely and quickly for the good of the game and the reputation of the Premier League.
Bean will lead a delegation of 100 fans to the House of Commons on Wednesday June 13 where he will read out a statement and meet with MPs in a bid to generate more support and publicity for United's ultimate reinstatement to the Premier League.
