Sky hits back of the net ahead of football season

Like the Premier League transfer merry-go-round there has been huge change to the TV packages on offer this summer.

Setanta's relegation into administration has meant that newcomers ESPN will be broadcasting 46 live Premier League games. So with the football season only weeks away, moneysupermarket.com looks at which packages offer the best value.

James Parker, broadband and mobiles manager at moneysupermarket.com, said: "Sky is unrivalled in its coverage of 92 live Premier League games, up to 15 live matches of UEFA Champions League each week, 80 Coca-Cola Championship matches and six International matches. Plus they have a host of other live sports including cricket and rugby, and at a cost of £19 per month to add it to your existing Sky package it is an essential addition to any football fan's subscription.

"However, big things are expected from ESPN. They are a giant in American sports broadcasting and will fight Sky all the way to the final whistle.

"After swooping in for the Setanta packages, the ESPN line up will include 46 Premier League matches but they are yet to announce any international or European football fixtures. The Premier League new boys will be available through Sky and Virgin Media from £9 and £8 respectively, but for the fanatics, both ESPN and Sky can be added to your current TV deal from £26 extra per month.

"At the moment, Sky's customer base is so large it will be difficult for ESPN to contest. However, people should keep in the mind that the ESPN offering will become more competitive over time and could prove great value for sports fans.

"In the lead up to the season's big kick-off, the big TV providers will be fighting for new sign-ups so fans should watch out for any last minute deals."