Centrefield LLP is well-known for its specialism in sports law, routinely assisting clients with issues surrounding agent regulation, and player contracts and transfers. Practice co-head Edward Canty draws on his significant experience in arbitration to handle a range of international sports disputes, while co-head Matthew Bennett is well-known for his longstanding expertise in football disputes before the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), acting for a lucrative client base of both clubs and players. Co-lead David Bentham stands out due to his commercial knowledge, often advising on sponsorship arrangements, broadcasting, and venue agreements, and co-head Stuart Baird is particularly adept at handling immigration issues, football transfers, and investigations into breaches of Profit and Sustainability Rules. Oliver Saddler is a key name for commercial issues within sport, Deirdre McCarthy regularly advises on social media and IP related issues, and Philip Bonner is known for his handling of regulatory investigations.
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘In-depth knowledge and experience of the complicated working of the football industry.’
‘Unique understanding of the football industry and the personalities involved. I would go as far as saying unrivalled knowledge of all key areas that a football club could wish to seek advice on, including regulatory, commercial and immigration matters.’
Key clients
- Manchester United Football Club
- Manchester City Football Club
Work highlights
- Advised Jordan Henderson and his representatives on his departure from Liverpool Football Club to join Al-Ettifaq in the Saudi Arabia Pro League, and his subsequent departure from Al-Ettifaq and move to Ajax.
- Assisted the Rugby Players' Association with its representation of the Elite Player Squad in a dispute with the RFU as to whether or not a match fee/bonus was payable to the players forming the 2023 Rugby World Cup squad as a result of their participation in the bronze medal match in that tournament.