Cancellation of Chinese TV deal raises major doubts on future of Premier League's commercial pull

Though the drop in broadcasting payments is problematic for clubs, the knock-on effects of the Premier League's termination of its TV deal with Chinese PPTV could be far more severe.

Chinese firms have little reason to sponsor Premier League clubs if they are unable to reach their home-audience, according to several experts.

More importantly, however, is the fact that hundreds of top flight sponsors have now lost access to the world's second-most populous country.

Not having exposure to a market as competitive as the Chinese is a big risk at a time when rival leagues are making strides.