EPL to share the money

London - The Premier League have agreed to share at least one billion pounds of their bumper TV deal outside the top flight while the 20 clubs also vowed on Thursday to pay staff the 'living wage'.

The first move is likely to be interpreted as an attempt to fend off critics who have accused the Premier League of not doing enough to support soccer's grassroots.

Both measures were agreed following the first meeting of all 20 clubs since broadcasters Sky and BT agreed to pay £5.14 billion pounds to show matches between 2016-19.