MARTIN SAMUEL: Even FIFA got there in the end by kicking Russia out of the World Cup

FIFA kicked Russia out of the World Cup. FIFA tried to find a compromise but it was impossible. Poland, Sweden and Czech Republic won the battle. Russia will not be involved in the play-offs. The Football Union of Russia would play in neutral venues without fans. Russia's women are out. Spartak Moscow are also out, as FIFA wanted. Russian president sent tanks to Kyiv. Ukraine's president was overthrown. Ukrainian people are still dying. It is a shame for Russia. They have done nothing wrong. Fifa's decision is the only way forward. Martin Samuel is not happy with FIFA's actions.

FIFA promotes Russian interests over the feelings of member nations.

FIFA might kick Russia out of the World Cup. Infantino's proposal for a biennial World Cups had angered the biggest clubs and confederations.

Infantino was seen as too close to Russia and Putin. UEFA hardly emerged well from this either. Poland, Sweden and Czech Republic took FIFA down. Roman Abramovich is being judged on the company he has kept. He is beginning a slow retreat from English football. He will be judged for his contribution to the game. English Football was dull before he came. It was better before. Manchester United and Arsenal were the big two. The Premier League was won by Manchester Utd and or Arsenal in 11 of its first 12 seasons. In 2003, what we regard as a big six was a different thing. Now it's a two-big two, as it was in 2003.